Sydney Long’s iconic painting Pan has become so much a part of popular Australian culture that it’s hard to imagine the work being responded to as radical. Long’s contemporaries were the Heidelberg School, painters who took to the fields and sat on hills, like the cliffs at Coogee, painting landscapes en plein air. Celebrated artists like Tom Roberts and Arthur Streeton were invested in creating realistic representations of the Australian bush, capturing its unique light. Along comes Long; tendrilous trees drip into form while a reed-pipe toting satyr plays to his coterie of nymphs. This stylised, decorative form, which has been linked to Art Noveau and Impressionism, not only revolutionised Australian landscape painting, but earned Long his place in public collections such as the AGNSW. Pan hangs in this exhibition alongside other examples of Long’s work, such as By tranquil waters and Spirit of the plains, providing a rounded representation of the artist’s development as a landscape painter.Image: Pan (1898); oil on canvas; 107.5x178.8cm; AGNSW collection.
"I never want a guest to walk away hungry — ample sauce is a must." This is the mantra of chef Hamish Ingham when it comes to his Redfern eatery Redbird. Ingham met his partner in crime Rebecca Lines while they were working at Billy Kwong. And now, the hospitality power couple behind the likes of Bar H, Banksii and Tequila Daisy has brought the skills they learnt back in the Crown Street kitchen to this Redfern Street venue. Redbird presents simple and fresh takes on classic modern Chinese dishes using local and native ingredients. Sydney rock oysters ($6–6.50) and steamed ginger Murray cod ($49) make an appearance on the menu, alongside sticky caramelised pork belly ($34.50), prawn toasts ($18) and Sichuan-braised eggplant ($18.50). "I also want them to experience that perfect meeting of salty, sweet and sour that has kept me coming back to this style of cooking for 22 years and counting," says Ingham. The signature dish on the menu is the eponymous red bird (market price). Which bird just happens to be the subject of this dish will change regularly, ranging from chicken to pigeon to duck. But what stays the same is the treatment, the poultry poached in an aromatic Cantonese red braise. Other highlights on the menu include chilli-spiced lotus root chips ($7.50), five spice tofu salad ($18.50), pork and scallop wontons ($18), and stir-fried beef fillet ($65). For dessert, you can opt for the lighter strawberry and Sichuan spice sorbet ($15), or double down on the indulgence by ordering the jasmine custard with verjuice caramel ($13.50), or perhaps some Sichuan caramel chocolate truffles ($8). There's also a hefty cocktail menu here at Redbird, featuring sips like the Redfern sour ($19) — a mix of Bacardi Blanca, Pernod, osmanthus syrup, mint and lime leaf — and a jasmine margarita ($23) made with Patron Reposado, yuzushu, jasmine syrup, and a smoke and salt bitter. The inviting dining room is defined by exposed brick, recycled timber and terrazzo tiles, while a 20-seat al fresco dining area out on Redfern Street provides a perfect people-watching vantage point.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. Sweden has a lot going on for a small country shrouded in darkness and snow for most of the year. Take a look around at the headliners of music festivals, at the clothes you’re wearing and the cider you’re drinking. You may have more in common with the sauna-loving nation than you’d think. Here are ten elements that define Swedish cool, compiled by Laura Phillips, editor of Mr Wolf Magazine, the journal of Nordic style. Raised in Melbourne, she was lured to the north with a promise of attractive men and affordable smoked salmon. Kanken backpacks Launched in 1978 in response to Swedish school children experiencing back problems, the Kånken is as minimal in design as you get. It’s everything a backpack should be — nothing more, nothing less. The weight of the pack is distributed evenly, its handles make it easy to hold as a handbag, its one front pocket and single internal compartment allow you to organise your keys and your notebook respectively. The fabric, sourced from yacht sail manufacturers in Japan, shifts from crisp to soft and glossed over time, commonly remaining a faithful companion to a Swede for 40 or so years. Saunas If sweating naked in a room full of strangers before plunging into a pool of ice doesn’t sound like you, Sweden will change your mind. Surprisingly relaxing and without doubt refreshing, the sauna is the place to make friends and bond with your fellow Swede. Some saunas, such as the Bjärred Saltsjöbad in southern Sweden, add stunning waterside views and rooftop sun bathing platforms for your cleansing enjoyment. Weekday Denim Forget the US, Sweden is the irrefutable capital of denim. For Swedes, denim is a way of life. No school uniforms and a year-round cool climate has nurtured a national attachment to jeans. It’s no wonder that the leading denim brands are all Swedish owned: H&M, Nudie Jeans, ACNE, Dr. Denim, to name a few. Weekday, responsible for the Cheap Monday label, has designed a jean for everyday of the week, perfect for the daily life of a Swede. Rekorderlig Cider Rekorderlig has captivated the globe with its cult of cider. Its tag line, 'Beautifully Swedish', has converted even the most staunch beer drinker and wine connoisseur to join the cider bandwagon. Savouring the feeling of fresh air, the woods and the comfortable welfare state, Rekorderlig (pronounced re-core-deer-lig) is the ideal accomplice for your induction into the Swedish way of life. Little Dragon Sweden’s recent electro music success is enough to believe the likes of Lykke Li, Robyn, The Knife, Swedish House Mafia, Avicii, Adrian Lux and Rebecca & Fiona all hang out with each other, and swap industry tips over fika (see no.7). Groups such as Little Dragon, however, have developed an international following with records characterised by smoothly evocative lyrics. Their self-proclaimed ‘global sound’ is experimental and consistently enjoyable. Their latest album, Nubuma Rubberband, is absolutely worth a listen. Way Out West Festival Every August Sweden’s second biggest city, Gothenburg, plays host to Way Out West, a staple of the Scandinavian summer festival circuit. Swedes are lured outside by the warm weather to dance through the night, dress so well it hurts and keep ahead of the next international Swedish music sensation. Johan & Nystrom Specialty Coffee Concept Store, Stockholm How do Swedes function on winter days with two hours of sunshine? It’s all in the coffee. This is epitomised in the cultural establishment of fika (pronounced fee-ka). A Swede is known to fika multiple times in the day. It’s a ritual of sitting down with a coffee and a cinnamon bun to take a break and socialise with colleges, family and friends. The specialty coffee movement in Stockholm is elevating the quality of the standard cup in Sweden; Stockholm’s Johan & Nyström in particular offer patient education on the art of coffee. ACNE The only kind of acne you want all over you, the Swedish fashion retailer epitomises Swedish minimalism. From its block colours to its clean branding, ACNE sells the composed self-assurance at the essence of Swedish cool. ACNE makes no frills look good. With a legion of loyalists from New York to Melbourne willing to renounce all things obnoxious and studded in the name of Swedish design, it’s onto something. If in doubt, dress head to toe in black and paint your apartment white; you’ve got Swedish minimalism in the bag. Restaurant Tusen at Ramundberget Ski Resort If you could generalise contemporary Swedish architecture at all, an attachment to nature would be the common ingredient. To understand a Swede, you must appreciate a deep connection with the environment. Sweden’s seasons occupy both extremes. As well as the temperature, their year is dictated by serious variation in light, fluctuating between complete darkness in the north during winter and 24 hours on sunlight during the summer. The built environment hence must accommodate for the extremes and adjust for the inhabitants within. Using natural materials and neutral colours such as blond wood and white walls keeps interiors adaptive and simple, allowing the transition from outdoors in to be seamless. The Restauant Tusen at Ramundberget Ski Resport by Hans Murman Arkitekter is a magnificent example. Dads with prams A progressive approach to paternity leave is the cornerstone of Sweden’s culture of gender equality. The result: a lot of dads with prams. Strolling through Stockholm’s hipster haunt, Södermalm, the packs of fathers-with-child would drive the most cynical bachelor to jealousy. No wonder Sweden is in a baby boom. Top image by Rekorderlig ambassador Agnes Thor.
There's an antidote to winter and it's pubs with roaring fires, cosy whisky bars, experimental art galleries and winter dishes whipped up by brilliant chefs. You'll find all these in high concentration in the creative Sydney neighbourhoods of Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale. To maximise your immersion — and cut down the journey time to get home — make the area the focus of your next staycation. With a night or two in one of the nearby AccorHotels properties, you'll be welcoming the cold weather rather than wishing it away. Here's your guide to a winter weekender in Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale. EAT AND DRINK Getting out of bed on a frosty morning is much, much easier when you know that good coffee awaits. You'll get just that – and, on a cloud-free day, a generous dose of sunlight – among the high ceilings of Surry Hills' Paramount Coffee Project. Another cheery spot is nearby Suzie Q, where the morning menu includes Wintertime Love: a brekkie bowl loaded with quinoa, almond hummus, fermented pumpkin, pickled cauliflower, kale, avocado, poached egg and toasted nuts. Alternatively, to warm up with freshly baked goods, swing by Chippendale's Brickfields Bakery or Redfern's extremely popular Donut Papi. Yes, a doughnut for breakfast is the definitive answer to the wintertime blues. Among the area's most tempting lunchtime offerings is fried chicken ramen, which you'll find at Butter, a hybrid eatery-retail space with an impressive rare sneaker collection. The dish was such a hit in 2017 that head chef Julian Cincotta brought it back for another round. Burger fiends, The O.G from Eve's Bar is one to tick off your burger bucket list: a classic beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mustard mayo combo topped with a mini cheese burger on top (because one is never enough). Another option is a Japanese-inspired burger at Ume — think crumbed chicken katsu with yuzu kosho mayo and tonkatsu sauce. That's pretty much enough fuel to get you through to spring. If you're ready to indulge at dinnertime, then head to the newish Kensington Street Precinct. The quintessential dining experience here is Automata, a 2015 opening that was named one of the Diners Club World's 50 Best Restaurants and whose head chef, Clayton Wells, has been showered with awards. This is a degustation-only deal where contemporary Australian flavours like romanesco, broccolini, sour cucumber, dory roe emulsion combine in one dish. The cluster of more casual restaurants and stalls around Spice Alley are Jason Atherton's Kensington Street Social also vie for your attention here. Other cosy dinner spots are double-hatted Ester, LP's Quality Meats for smoked and cured delights, Melbourne transplant Chin Chin for spicy Asian, Spice I Am for authentic Thai and Happy D's for dumplings. All wintry evenings should end with a beverage in front of a crackling open fire. In Surry Hills alone, there are three pubs with just that: The Dolphin, the Cricketers Arms and Harpoon Harry. Alternatively, for a cocktail, go to Mjolner, a labyrinthine bar filled with cavernous rooms inspired by Thor, or, for a whisky, the Wild Rover. DO With the lure of beach-going reduced, winter is a great time to catch up on art. Surry Hills, Redfern and Chippendale are perfect places for it, being absolutely packed with galleries. Get started at Brett Whiteley Studio, where the famous avant-garde artist lived and worked, before heading to White Rabbit, to peruse one of the biggest collections of 21st-century Chinese art in the world. Afterwards, take a wander around Chippendale's back streets, to stumble across stacks of independent and experimental galleries. Look out for Galerie Pompom for shows by emerging artists, Tiny Tailor for designer creations and Goodspace, where, with the support of local pub the Lord Gladstone, artists exhibit commission-free. Come evening, swap art for live performance. There's jazz, blues and funk at Venue 505, rock bands at the Lansdowne Hotel, DJs and various live acts at Freda's and all kinds of sexy – and not-so-sexy – stuff at the Bearded Tit. Meanwhile, for theatre, comedy and talks, check out the Old 505, Giant Dwarf and the Seymour Centre. You'll be so busy, you won't have time to think about the cold. SLEEP To keep up with so many adventures, a super-sound sleep is crucial. The good news is there's a few nearby hotels where you can count on being cosy and warm. To go 4.5-star, book at the Novotel Sydney Central. The sunny, colour-splashed rooms feel happy — on even the chilliest of days. All come with lovely king-sized beds (or two queens, if you so choose) and the Superior rooms with private balconies. Wherever you sleep, you'll be welcome to swim in the heated rooftop pool and hang out in the garden terrace. Also be sure to make a stop at the Field House Bar during happy hour from 5–7pm and enjoy $5 house drinks and two-for-one cocktails, accompanied by live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights. An alternative is the 4-star Mercure Sydney, right near Central Station and a short walk from the sizzle of Spice Alley and Kensington Street. Keen to splurge? Reserve a city-view room, with panoramas of the Sydney CBD skyline. There's also a rooftop gym, sauna and indoor heated pool (winter dip, anyone?). If you're looking for bang for your buck, then the Ibis Sydney World Square is for you. Located within a stone's throw of Surry Hills, Chippendale, Redfern and the CBD, it's spacious, clean and close to the wildly praised new bars and restaurants you came this way to see. Go to the AccorHotels website to book your stay in Sydney, and to discover more of NSW, check out Visit NSW.
Bell Shakespeare’s latest production of Henry V could well be renamed 'Once More Unto the Beaches'. Well, that would be silly, but in Damien Ryan’s production, set in an underground bomb shelter during the London Blitz in 1941, you can almost hear Churchill’s famous 'We Shall Fight Them on the Beaches' speech echoing through the space as Michael Sheasby delivers the famous 'Once more unto the breach' monologue. Ryan’s production has been touring the country since last June, and this talented ensemble has the high-energy, intricate choreography of the piece down pat. The World War II setting was inspired by a true story that Ryan came across of a Vicar who set up a makeshift theatre in a bunker during the air raids. Ryan places Henry V as a play within a play acted out by a group of students, led by the gregarious Vicar (Keith Agius), in the style of Dead Poets Society. They leap on tables, don newspaper crowns, grip swords fashioned from rulers, upturn bookcases to form ramparts and generally have a ripsnorter of a time. The ensemble seems to be genuinely under Agius’s spell, as he leads them masterfully through the setup of Richard II and Henry IV and then into the play proper. Designer Anna Gardiner has moulded the Opera House Playhouse stage into a cocoon of shelter against the bombs, with exposed pipes and a thin line of shattered windows near the ceiling. A blackboard at the back wall is used to explain the denser details of history and three bookshelves divested of their books transform into beds, tables and mountains. It’s an original premise and an interesting one that asks a lot of concentration of the audience. When you learn about Shakespeare in high school, someone invariably tries to convince you that really this dense language is comprehensible; you just need to grasp the rhythm. And they’d be right. But in this production the flow of the play is interrupted so often with Brechtian interludes that it’s more like a jaunty jig through history than a gripping narrative. The fast-paced jostling between explanation and action left me more dazed than enlightened. The cost of the riotousness is that when someone dies, it’s hard to know who they are, let alone how to feel about them. The production’s most interesting motif is the loss of innocence, in the arrival of a wounded German soldier played by Darcy Brown. He sits silently with blood running down his bandaged face at the back of the room as chaos reigns around him. This specter of death in the second half offers the stillness that the production is aching for. Indeed, Brown’s focus and presence is remarkable throughout. The cast is adept and captivating, and have achieved something remarkable in fitting two plays into less than three hours. Make sure you have your faculties about you before stepping into this breach.
Just can't wait for another date with The Lion King in one of its many guises? For more than three decades now, since the original animated flick first arrived and became a beloved favourite — as well as a box-office smash and an Oscar-winner — no one has had to. Movie sequels followed, as well as a photorealistic remake with its own prequel. Spinoffs and TV shows have popped up, too. For almost 30 years, The Lion King has also taken to the stage. No stranger to Australia, the film-to-theatre musical has just announced a new date Down Under in 2026. Let's call it the circle of stage productions: a local version of The Lion King initially trod the Aussie boards in 2003, then a second take arrived in 2013. Just as both of those two tours did, the new production will open in Sydney. In fact, it's playing at the same venue, the Capitol Theatre, that The Lion King first roared into when it made its Australian theatre debut. So far, only a month has been announced in terms of timing, with The Lion King set to open in April 2026. No other cities or dates have been revealed as yet, but prior productions have taken the story of Simba, Mufasa and Scar beyond the Harbour City. In the past, almost four-million audience members have enjoyed the show Down Under. Worldwide, that number is more than 120 million, all watching a performance that's played more than 100 cities in 24 countries, and is the biggest-grossing title in history. On the stage, The Lion King is as acclaimed as it is popular, including collecting six Tony Awards in 1998, Best Musical among them — and making its OG director Julie Taymor the first woman to receive a Tony for Direction of a Musical. Can you feel the love tonight? This theatre hit has, repeatedly. [caption id="attachment_990210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Deen van Meer, Disney[/caption] "Every time we return to Australia, we are reminded of the region's considerable talent pool, both onstage and off, and we can't wait to gather a talented and exciting company for The Lion King," said Disney Theatrical Group Executive Producer Anne Quart and Managing Director Andrew Flatt, who have been with The Lion King onstage since its 1997 US premiere. "We are thrilled to welcome The Lion King back to Sydney, the place where it all began in Australia over 20 years ago. The Walt Disney Company ANZ is proud to be one of only three places in the world where, alongside Broadway and the West End, we self-produce musicals, directly employing hundreds of Australian theatre professionals," added The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director Kylie Watson-Wheeler. [caption id="attachment_803460" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matthew Murphy, Disney[/caption] [caption id="attachment_803461" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joan Marcus, Disney[/caption] The Lion King will open at the Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket, Sydney, from April 2026. For more details, and to join the ticket waitlist, head to the production's website. Top image: Matthew Murphy, Disney.
Lamingtonuts, cruffins, flagels, take a hike. There's a new savoury hybrid in town. Goodgod Small Club's Belly Bao eatery has spent the last six months secretly fusing their signature bao bun with Sydney's cult edible go-to, the burger. Finally, BAM. We have a baoger. Yep, a BAOGER. The mighty 'Belly Baoger' is now available at Goodgod's Taiwanese street food eatery. Sink your teeth into Belly Bao’s handmade bao burger bun, a juicy grilled beef patty, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, onion, pickled radish and special sauce. But you can't just rock up any ol' time and demand baogers all over the joint; they're only available on Thursdays from 5pm. It's $10 for a single patty, $13 for a double. Right here, right bao, is the hybrid dinner you've been waiting for. Find Belly Bao and the brand new BellyBaoger at Goodgod Small Club, 53-55 Liverpool Street, Sydney.
Two decades ago, the live-action Scooby-Doo movie was one of the Gold Coast's big claims to fame. While it was shooting, it was also the reason that plenty of Queenslanders tried to spot Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, Freddie Prinze Jr and Linda Cardellini IRL, too. And if it also made you wish that you could drive around in a multi-coloured van with your mates — and dog — while solving crimes, you definitely weren't alone. In great news for meddling kids everywhere — well, former meddling kids who are now nostalgic meddling adults — hitting the road in the iconic Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine is actually a real thing that you can currently do. You'll need to swap Australia for a vanning holiday in Southern California, though, and you'll even be hosted by Lillard. In its latest pop culture-themed experience after the Bluey house and the Moulin Rouge! windmill already this year, Airbnb has listed the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine for stays, all to mark the movie's 20th anniversary. The word you're looking for is zoinks, obviously. Having a talking pooch to bunker down with you is optional. Like all of Airbnb's themed stays, this one is only available for a limited time — and by booking in a specific way. It'll be open for three three individual one-night reservations, for two guests per night, from June 24–26. And it'll only cost you AU$28 (US$20), but only if you're lucky enough to score a booking by hopping online from 3am AEST on Friday, June 17. Basically, you'll probably already want to be in the US over those dates anyway — or you'll need to be able to drop everything and make plans faster than Shaggy can pull off some scheming criminal's mask (because there's always a mask). If you do nab a booking, you'll be living like Shaggy and Scooby for a night, including listening to Sugar Ray on a portable CD player, lighting up the van with a lava lamp, soaking in plenty of 70s-style decor and wearing a puka shell necklace. Also included: a virtual greeting from Lillard upon your arrival, all-you-can-eat snacks, a dinner of Shaggy and Scooby faves such as hot dogs and eggplant burgers, and an outdoor lounge hangout area with a hammock. And yes, watching Scooby-Doo is also on the agenda, complete with popcorn, candy and bottomless Scooby Snacks. You'll also play mystery games, of course, because it wouldn't really me a night in the Mystery Machine without a bit of whodunnit action. "I've been channelling Shaggy since the live-action adaptation in 2002, and he's been a part of me ever since," said Lillard. "I can't wait to welcome guests into the world of the Mystery Inc gang as their Airbnb host and give them a summer vacation they'll never forget... monsters not included!" That AU$28 (US$20) price doesn't include getting to and from Southern California, so you'll also need to stump up for flights. While Airbnb has Lillard on the books, if it wanted to get him to host a Scream-themed stay, too — scary movies and all — we'd sign up for that as well. For more information about the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 3am AEST on Friday, June 17, head to the Airbnb website. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: Hogwash Studios/Ja Tescon.
Sydney nightlife has been a little less fun since the passing of Adrian Thomas, better known as DJ Ajax. Founding the Bang Gang DJs collective in the '00s, Ajax took out the title of Australia's No.1 DJ in 2006 and 2007 by inthemix, and ranked in the top five each year from 2005 until 2009. To celebrate his life, the remaining Bang Gang members — including DJ Damage, Dangerous Dan, Jaime Doom, Double Nolan and Gus Da Hoodrat — will come together to throw a party like they used to on Saturday, February 22, one year after his death. "Return to Club 77 for the annual celebration of the one and only true dance legend Ajax," reads a poster for the night. "Come and help us evoke his spirit and rediscover yourself in space full of light, sound and dance." Club 77 has been Bang Gang's home turf since moving their weekly parties from Moulin Rouge, and the tribute night (conveniently held two nights before the NSW Government's new licensing laws are enforced) is bound to make Ajax proud. The poster reads "10pm — you know when", but it's sure to get crowded. Forward-thinking partygoers will arrive early.
It's a great privilege to experience the homelands of Traditional Owners — and it's even more exceptional when you have a local to guide you along the way. Tropical North Queensland is blessed with many experiences that'll allow you the opportunity to connect and learn from Traditional Custodians as they generously share their art, food, dancing and customs. We've teamed up with Tropical North Queensland to share one-of-a-kind experiences to add to your hit list if you're passionate about travelling consciously. By supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned businesses like those mentioned below, you're helping to preserve sacred practices that have been passed down for thousands of years. SEEK OUT SOME OF THE BEST LOCAL INDIGENOUS ART This year, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair will be held from July 6–10. This annual festival attracts thousands of local and international visitors to the city to celebrate Indigenous artists and their latest works. The program includes a visual feast of artwork and performances, alongside fashion shows, workshops and symposiums. While it honours Indigenous culture and traditions, the event also provides economic and personal development opportunities for the artists. Some artworks are acquired by private collectors, while others are purchased for display across the world. Previous years have seen impressive buyers representing the Harvard University Art Museum and the National Gallery of Canada. TAKE A THREE-DAY 4WD TOUR THROUGH THE REGION The team at Culture Connect prides itself on providing visitors with authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences from Cairns to Cooktown. The small tour group sizes allow for an intimate opportunity to explore the region, with local Aboriginal guides who are passionate about their homeland and history. Experiences range in length from half-day nature walks to a full-day scenic flight adventure. There's also a three-day 4WD tour on offer with meals and accommodation included. Guests have the opportunity to explore ancient rock art galleries, learn traditional coastal survival skills or or learn to paint from an acclaimed local Indigenous artist. [caption id="attachment_846219" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Island Stars Cultural Experience[/caption] EXPLORE THE REGION WITH THE HELP OF AN INDIGENOUS GUIDE Hundreds of islands make up the Torres Strait region and just 17 are currently inhabited. Touring this area without local knowledge is tricky, which is where Strait Experience steps in to help. This Torres Strait-owned business offers incredible opportunities to explore remote destinations such as Thursday Island and Horn Island. Strait Experience connects visitors with exclusive accommodation options, unique beachside activities and tours focusing on historical sites and ancient traditions on some of the islands in the Torres Strait. And, if you time it just right, you might even be lucky enough to observe turtles nesting on the beach. TAKE A BOAT TOUR TO A TRADITIONAL SMOKING CEREMONY The traditional lands of the Mandingalbay Yidinji People cover an impressive 10,000 hectares, which allowed ancient ancestors to develop an impressive range of survival and conservation skills. Just a short river cruise with Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Tours will transport you thousands of years back in time. Departing from Cairns Marlin Marina, a 15-minute boat journey will take you from Trinity Inlet to Hills Creek. Once arriving at the destination, guests are welcomed with a traditional cleansing smoking ceremony. Other tour options include eco walks, overnight camping expeditions and dance performances. The famous 'Deadly Dinners' give you the opportunity to sample delicious local ingredients such as kangaroo, crocodile and mud crab. [caption id="attachment_829657" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] WANDER THROUGH THE WONDERS OF KUKU YALANJI COUNTRY Did you know that two World Heritage-listed sites meet in Tropical North Queensland? Yep, in Kuku Yalanji Country, you'll see where the epic Daintree Rainforest juts up against the iconic Great Barrier Reef. And you can explore all the wonders of this area on a half- or full-day tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures. This 100-percent First Nations-owned and operated cultural tour company offers you the opportunity to learn about this unique environment and the foods and medicines that are produced here. You'll get to sample bush tucker, swim in freshwater streams and maybe even try spear and boomerang throwing. Your tour guide takes care of everything — all you need to do is wear comfy shoes. [caption id="attachment_830381" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] PLUNGE INTO THE DEEP BLUE Experiencing the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef is an irrefutable addition to any TNQ itinerary. But doing so with Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel will leave you with an even greater understanding and appreciation of this natural beauty and the connection that local First Nations people have with it. Across a five-hour tour, you'll get to hear the creation story of the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel or dive in two outer reef sites, sample native bush food and be entertained by a traditional dance. The tours are run by First Nations sea rangers whose passion for reef preservation and sustainable tourism is evident. TAKE A DIP IN AN OUTBACK POOL Update: Talaroo Hot Springs 2022 season will run from April 1-October 31. It may take about 4.5 hours to drive from Cairns to this outback pool in the heart of Ewamian Country. But boy, oh, boy is it worth it. The hot springs here formed millions of years ago with the water seeping from underground and heated by granite rocks along the way. When it reaches the pools, it's a whopping 68 degrees celsius and cools as it flows across the rippled travertine terraces. You can't directly enter the natural hot springs, but you can take a dip in one of the site's private soaking pools which can be accessed via a timber boardwalk on a First Nations-led tour. Talaroo Hot Springs also has an outback caravan park and campground if you'd like to stay a little longer (and we wouldn't blame you if you did). [caption id="attachment_842421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GET A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE OF THE TROPICS Located in Burketown, Yagurli Tours is a First Nations-owned and operated tour company. With local Gangalidda and Garawa guides, these experiences offer a unique opportunity to learn about Gulf Savannah country from the Traditional Custodians of the land. Yagurli Tours offer five different immersive adventures, like Yaliya's Stories (Stargazing) on Australia's largest salt pans and the Gambumanda Sunset Cruise with dinner and drinks. Also on offer is the Marrija 4WD Cultural Tour and Aloft Hot Air Balloon flights showcasing the Albert River, salts pans and the Arafura Sea in the Gulf of Carpentaria. [caption id="attachment_845212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] DISCOVER HISTORY THROUGH MAGNIFICENT ROCK ART Jarramali Rock Art Tours are perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds and experience an intimate and rugged adventure. This authentic Aboriginal cultural experience will commence with either a 4WD drive with a Traditional Owner or a scenic helicopter flight depending on if you want a day trip or would rather embark on an overnight stay. We suggest an overnight stay where you will camp in an exclusive location, only accessible to Jarramali guests. Discover the history of the Kuku Yalanji people through magnificent Quinkan Rock Art. Traditional Owners will guide you through the 20,000 year old art found among sandstone escarpments near Laura in North Queensland. You will gain a deeper understanding of Australia's Indigenous history while soaking in the beauty of the remote wilderness - making this definitely, a once in a lifetime experience. [caption id="attachment_844022" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] FLEX YOUR CREATIVE MUSCLES WITH AN INDIGENOUS PAINTING WORKSHOP Owned by renowned First Nations artist Brian 'Binna' Swindley, Janbal Gallery offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about Aboriginal culture through art and storytelling experiences. Binna is a local Kuku Yalanji man from Mossman and the gallery is lovingly named after his late mother. Binna hosts painting workshops on weekdays, with morning and afternoon sessions available. Choose from either a small boomerang or canvas to paint, with all paints and tools supplied. An impressive range of Aboriginal artwork is on display at the gallery, with items available for purchase, too. Ready to plan a trip to the tropics? For more information visit the Tropical North Queensland website.
Chocolate gelato works deliciously when you can't choose between chocolate and ice cream. When Easter hits, however, that won't do the trick. Hankering for a chocolate egg, because it's the time of year for it, but also want something creamy and frosty? That's where Gelato Messina's gelato-filled chocolate eggs usually come in. In 2023, the dessert chain whipped up packs with three eggs inside. This year, it's giving everyone the treat that we all coveted when we were kids: a hefty-sized egg. This one is even better than the foil-wrapped supermarket versions, of course, because it comes filled with Messina's gelato. The chain's 2024 Easter offering weighs a kilogram and is designed to serve six (but if you're keen to keep it to yourself, we understand). The shell is made of milk chocolate, which is then painted in bright Messina brand colours. Inside, as made at Messina HQ in Marrickville, is a wealth of flavours and textures. Milo gelato is one of the chain's tastiest varieties, and you'll find it inside this Easter egg. You'll also find Milo mousse as well. Among the other layers, the treat includes Oreo crumble and Oreo cookie chunks, plus malted vanilla chantilly. Finally, there's both hazelnut praline and a hazelnut caramel centre, too. Messina's 2024 Easter eggs can only be ordered online on Monday, March 11 for collection over Easter — of course — between Thursday, March 28–Sunday, March 31. Messina now opens its orders at various times for various places, so you'll want to hop online at 12pm AEDT for Queensland, South Australian, Western Australian and Australian Capital Territory stores; 12.15pm AEDT for Victorian shops; and at either 12.30pm, 12.45pm or 1pm AEDT depending on where you are in New South Wales. Gelato Messina's 2024 gelato Easter eggs are available to order from Monday, March 11 for pick up between Thursday, March 28–Sunday, March 31 — head to the Messina website for further details.
Perched above a previously underutilised, quietly beautiful stretch of Darling Harbour, NOLA Smokehouse and Bar is a new addition to the Streets of Barangaroo's tower restaurants. The style tips its hat to one of America's most revered and distinctive cities with hanging basket ferns, wicker chairs and gorgeous wrought iron detailing around the bar. The menu wears the New Orleans influence lightly though — think more along the lines of smoked meats and sazeracs rather than bowls of gumbo and po' boys. Service is knowledgeable and friendly, giving what could easily be a stuffy upmarket venue a taste of laidback Southern hospitality. The menu covers loose groupings of starters and share plates and is particularly strong on seafood; go for a half-dozen oThis Baranf Pacific oysters with a sharp shallot vinaigrette and/or a thick chipotle bloody mary sauce ($25) straight off the bat. A tuna sashimi dish ($24) offers just a hint of Southern spice with its Creole seasoning, and comes strewn with lightly salty caviar-like sea grapes. Mains revolve around the smoking room, and a good way to sample a range of their handiwork — not to mention eat your way into an agreeable food coma — is with the Pit Master's Picks ($43 per person), which includes lamb, pork sausage, brisket and chicken. The velvety-soft brisket pairs nicely with a dollop of chimichurri sauce while the blackened, tea-brined chicken (also available separately for $48) is particularly mouth-watering, full-flavoured and smoked to a soft texture. One of the salad options, the chargrilled cos ($22), goes way beyond being an afterthought for non-carnivores, bringing crunch and plenty of colour with coils of neat green zucchini ribbons, vivid purple radicchio leaves and the dusky orange zucchini flowers. Another big part of NOLA is the drinks list. Cocktails run from well-balanced originals like a bourbon, blueberry and lemon concoction called the Berry Blues to classics like the evergreen Vieux Carré — named after the city's famed Old Quarter — and the sazerac, one of the great gifts New Orleans has given to the world (all $18-20). The back bar also holds an admirably encyclopaedic collection of American whiskies, with plans to expand the range to well over 500 US varieties. All the big names are represented here, but try one of their lesser-known varieties, or something different, like a super smoky Octomore. The dessert list includes some New Orleans specialities like pecan pie and molasses jelly. Bananas Foster would have been a nice addition, but its absence is soothed by the decadent likes of a cookies and cream dish with ice cream, honeycomb, fresh berries and bourbon caramel ($13). Besides, when the last rays of sun are disappearing over the harbour and a breeze is filtering in through the airy room, you'll hardly be complaining.
In Surry Hills' new Italian quarter, home to Maurice Terzini's Dolphin Hotel, Flour Eggs Water by A Tavola and the family-owned Crown Street Grocer, is Caffe Bartolo. The just-opened all-day eatery — the first solo venture from co-owner of Lobo Plantation, Kittyhawk and Big Poppa's Jared Merlino — isn't itself family owned, but it certainly feels like it. Menus and wine glasses are engraved with the signature of Bartolo Marino, Merlino's great-grandfather, who migrated to Australia from Lipari; greyhounds, which guard the front door (both statues and sometimes real-life) and whose photos grace the walls, are a nod to Bartolo's daughter Rita, a greyhound breeder; and on the menu's endpaper is a eulogy to Merlino's grandmother, Mary. Mary's presence is felt throughout the menu, too; the bloody mary mix and the breakfast meatballs ($20), served atop a panini with sugo and smoky scamorza, are both made using her recipe. And if you're thinking that meatballs don't sound like a typical Sydney brunch meal, you're right. That was intentional. With Sydney breakfast institution Bills located just a few doors down, Merlino wanted to serve up something that Crown Street didn't already offer. For that, he called in chef Teofilo Nobrega, who's spent the past 13 years working at Potts Point's Fratelli Paradiso. When creating the food menu, Nobrego's aim was to create a lineup of dishes that you could happily spend 17 hours — how long the cafe's open for each day — eating. And you can. You could start with the Sicilian-style coffee granita ($12), piled high with cream and served with house-made brioche, then progress to the Bartolo ($20), an omelette stuffed with fontina, broccolini and bacon, and a bloody mary ($20) with Aussie-made Maidenii vermouth. [caption id="attachment_699523" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The coffee granita, topped with cream and served with brioche.[/caption] Then, come lunch, it's suggested, by both Nobrega and Merlino, that you order Le Polpo ($21). Sous-vide for four hours, the octopus is then grilled and served with 'nduja powder and arrabiata sauce. Alternatively, you could order the saffron gnocchi ($25), made fresh daily like all the cafe's pasta, with zucchini flowers, bisque and wakame powder. Yep, dried seaweed powder. It may not be standard in Italian cooking, but Caffe Bartolo isn't quite serving up standard Italian. Its menu is scattered with Japanese ingredients and Australian produce, which is particularly prominent in the cocktail list. Designed by creative director Grazia Di Franco, who's worked with Merlino before at Lobo Plantation and Kittyhawk, the cocktails attempt to convey what summer tastes like. Quite literally. Filled with stunning illustrations by Simon O'Carrigan, the list features drinks such as the Sunscreen ($20), made with cocoa butter, mango and rum; a short and slightly bitter Summer Love ($20); and Breakfast on a Verandah ($20), which combines rockmelon, native mint tea, coffee and German cachaça (a spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice). There's also a dedicated spritz menu featuring lemon myrtle, Cynar, absinthe and sherry. The drinks are what Di Franco imagines Bartolo would see and taste if he were still here, sitting out the front of the cafe in summer. Which you could try to imagine for yourself, too. The outdoor seating is what drew Merlino to the space. Formerly home to Bills (before it moved metres down the road) it has been transformed by friend and designer Peter Harley, from Archery Rd Design. It has much more of a personality now, with photos of Bartolo on the walls, dark wood venetian blinds and floral wallpaper (not dissimilar to that at Lobo) covering the bathroom walls. You can sit on the comfy white banquettes that line the front window, grab a wicker-backed chair at one of the marble-topped tables inside, or snag one of the coveted suede seats at the turquoise marble bar. Or, if you're just passing by, stop at the takeaway window and grab a Gabriel coffee and a pastry from Concord's Pari Pasticceria to go. Find Caffe Bartolo at 359 Crown Street, Surry Hills. It's open from 7am till midnight daily. Images: Kitti Smallbone.
Since 2017 in Sydney, 2018 in Melbourne and 2019 in Brisbane, a trip to Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq has meant stepping inside a circus-themed arcade bar that's primed for kidulting. And, that's still the case; however, once a month from May until November, the chain is ramping its core concepts of circus, arcade fun and nostalgic activities for adults up a few levels. Run by Funlab, the group also responsible for Holey Moley, Strike Bowling and B. Lucky & Sons, Archie Brothers is kicking off a new Showtime event series. After launching on Friday, May 7 in Alexandria, and on Saturday, May 8 in Docklands and Toombul, it'll take place on the second Saturday of each month at each site, turning each venue into an adults-only circus and cocktail pop-up. From 7–10pm at each event, attendees can expect stilt walkers, magicians, burlesque and beverages — and tarot card readers and face painters as well. The lineup of performers will vary depending on the city, but there'll also be juggling and snake charming in Sydney, and mime in Melbourne. Brisbanites can look forward to unicycling, acrobatics, diabolo, balloon modelling and more juggling. The carousel-themed Archie Brothers bar will be pouring Showtime Disco Mirror Ball cocktails, which combine Red Bull, passionfruit, cranberry juice, triple sec, whiskey and lime, while the rest of the chain's usual drinks list will be on offer, too. Food-wise, the theme park and American diner-inspired menu will span sandwiches, pizzas, sliders, onion rings, mac and cheese and other dishes. And, all of Archie Brothers' usual games and activities will be on the agenda, as will prizes. So, you'll be whipping out your Mario Kart skills, hitting the dodgems, bowling and just generally mashing buttons in May, and again come June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11, October 9 and November 13. Then, you'll be trading all the tickets you amass for gaming consoles, 90s paraphernalia and more (and there won't be any kids around vying for the same goodies). Showtime at Archie Brothers kicks off on Friday, May 7 in Alexandria, and on Saturday, May 8 in Docklands and Toombul, then runs on the second Saturday of each month until November. To attend, you'll need to book online. Images: Zennieshia Butts.
If you've been making an effort to be kinder to the planet, chances are your daily coffee habits have had a bit of a shakeup of late. Maybe you've said farewell to your last takeaway coffee cup, switched to drinking only fair-trade beans, ditched environmentally harmful coffee pods, or all of the above. Well, now local company Pod & Parcel could just see you change up your coffee game once again. The start-up is the brainchild of three Melbourne business consultants, Ben Goodman, Elliott Haralambous and Jai Felinksi, who wanted to combine the ease of a coffee pod with the quality of specialty coffee — without leaving a nasty impact on the planet. The trio developed a special plant-based pod that is fully biodegradable and compostable, taking just six months to break down, as opposed to the 500 years of its competitors. With an estimated two-to-three million coffee pods consumed daily in Australia alone, that's a whole lot of reasons to switch. Another is the coffee itself. Far from skimping on quality, the trio has collaborated with local coffee roasters to develop its product, so you can enjoy that cafe-level cuppa from the comfort of your home. Choose from a single-origin Guatemalan — with notes of creamy vanilla and blood orange — or a toffee-noted blend of Colombian and Tanzanian beans, among many others. Because it's specialty-grade arabica coffee, it has a back-story, too. Consumers can find out where it came from, how it travelled and exactly when it was roasted. Consider this a budget-friendly alternative to those exxy brews from your local specialty coffee shop, that also challenges big name pod manufacturers like Nespresso. Pod & Parcel's creations come in a swag of different flavours and intensities, available online from around 86 cents per pod. If you fancy saving even more, you can sign up to its Coffee Club, which delivers pods straight to your door.
Dating apps are getting more niche by the day, because, let's face it, Tinder isn't for everyone. There's a lot of people out there and meeting up with someone because you both like The Dodo on Facebook is not the most foolproof way to date. But the newest online dating tool to launch in Australia aims to connect people with one big thing in common: they're all vegans or vegetarians. V Love has been founded by entrepreneur and long-time vegan Amber Gouzy, who noticed her own circle struggling with online dating. So she decided to create a service that would be help them meet like-minded people. While the app is primarily for vegans and vegetarians, it's designed to bring together individuals with similar values and help them avoid dates with people who are completely closed off to the idea of vegetarianism. While the app does sound like it's only hitting a small market, data from Roy Morgan Research shows that over ten percent of Australians identify as vegetarian, which is even more evident in New South Wales, where there has been a 30 percent growth in vegetarians since 2012. Market Researcher Euromonitor International has also shown that Australia's packaged vegan food market is currently worth nearly $136 million and is set to reach $215 million by 2020, making the Australian market the third-fastest growing vegan market in the world. Though the food industry in Australia is clearly taking note of this stark increase and specifically responding to the increasing vegetarian population, V Love aims to fill the gap across other sectors. V Love is free to download but a $5.99 monthly subscription fee must be paid to access all features. As with most dating apps, users create a personalised profile, conduct a filtered search and use a 'swipe' method to connect with others. Matches are based on the V Love compatibility algorithm and connects users that live in the same area. Gouzy is planning for worldwide expansion for the app, with the goal of registering 800 downloads/subscriptions in Australia this month alone. V Love is currently available on the App Store and Google Play — it's free to download but has a monthly subscription fee of $5.99 per month. For more info, visit vlove.com.au.
Sydney has lit up once again with its annual festival of lights, music and ideas. Even with the sudden cold, Vivid Sydney has got us getting out from under the doona and exploring our city. The CBD's three-kilometre Vivid Light Walk, spanning precincts at Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Luna Park and Circular Quay (including an interactive playground for kidults), has a total of 50 large-scale projections. Plus, there are additional happenings taking place at Taronga Zoo and Chatswood and 15 light installations within the Royal Botanic Garden, including an immersive field of 500 fireflies. Yep, it's the biggest Vivid yet. And while it's a must-do every year for locals and tourists alike, battling through the crowds, unfortunately, comes as part of the package. If the hubbub is a bit too much, but you still want to enjoy the sights, American Express has got the spot. You can find the American Express rooftop lounge atop the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay. Once there, you can lounge about, drink in hand, and take in all the surrounding lights, without elbowing your way through the masses. Located on Cruise Bar's rooftop, the exclusive lounge is aglow with blue lights and starry night projections, immersing you in a neon cosmos. Along with feeling as if you're part of a light installation, with the bright blue wash over the entire space, the lounge has some of the best Vivid views, including spectator-favourite the Sydney Opera House's sails and the glittering harbour beyond. The interior has ceiling-to-floor glass for uninterrupted views, with a selection of barstools, higher tables and lower, cosier seating. Meanwhile, outside, you'll find chairs aligned with Vivid vistas. The bar has drinks galore — bubbly, wine, beer, a couple of cocktails and a range of spirits. So, grab a drink and nab a spot next to a heater on the balcony or get cosy on one of the many comfy chairs inside the luminous lounge — Vivid views don't get much better than this. From here, you'll see LA-based Chinese American artist and filmmaker Andrew Thomas Huang's Austral Flora Ballet dancing across the Opera House sails; the 'symphony of beams that play across the city skyline' that is City Sparkle; the MCA's facade lit up by Claudia Nicholson's Let Me Down; an underwater wonderland at Customs House; and, of course, a neon Sydney Harbour Bridge. Plus, as you ride the escalator up to the lounge, you'll get an up-close look at Celestial Pancake — a fibre-optic suspended light installation simulating the night sky. These exclusive, high-up views are free for American Express cardholders. Plus, you can also get $5 back when you spend $30 or more at the bar — just save the offer to your Amex card in the lounge's 'tap and save kiosk'. But perhaps best of all, you don't even need an American Express card to get in. Non-cardholders can register here to gain complimentary access to the lounge from 8pm onwards — simply show your confirmation email at the door. Whether you're kicking off your night here or dropping in midway through your Vivid tour for some relief from the cold (and crowds), the American Express lounge is your haven in the centre of all things Vivid. Gaze upon uninterrupted, panoramic views while sipping on a glass of vino and snacking on oysters, cheeses and charcuterie, Lebanese chicken wings and flatbreads with dip. Plus, DJs will also be playing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The Amex Vivid Lounge will be open every night of Vivid — from Friday, May 24 to Saturday, June 15 — between 5.30–10.30pm. To get your name on the list, head over here. When you need a break from the crowds but not the lights this Vivid season, American Express has your back. Gain access to the American Express Vivid Lounge for free — even if you don't yet have an American Express card. All you have to do is sign-up here. Images: Kimberley Low.
If you think you need to travel all the way to Far North Queensland to paddleboard across crystal clear waters, think again. The aqua blue waters of Shoal Bay provide the same relaxing and aesthetically pleasing experience without the pricey airfare. Shoal Bay SUP is based right on the beach at Shoal Bay about 100 metres from the boat ramp. Hire costs $25 for an hour and includes a quick lesson before you set out to leisurely explore the bay. This section of the bay is quite shallow — between four and eight metres — so keep an eye out for marine life. Shoal Bay SUP also runs early morning guided tours at 7.45am. An instructor will either take you west towards Halifax Park or east towards Tomaree Headland depending on weather conditions. The tour costs $35 per person and runs for about an hour. Images: Destination NSW
If you're a fan of 90s horror getting a new lease on life, we know what you're doing this winter Down Under: watching the latest instalment in the I Know What You Did Last Summer franchise. Although a TV series ran for one season in 2021, it's been almost 20 years since the last film in the series hit screens — and, as both the initial trailer and the just-dropped fresh look at the newest movie shows, familiar faces are back, and spouting familiar lines of dialogue as well. A slasher premise. A script by Dawson's Creek creator Kevin Williamson. A cast member of Party of Five being terrorised. That setup worked well twice three decades back, first with Scream and then with I Know What You Did Last Summer. Indeed, when they each initially released, sequels followed in both instances. Here's the latest part of the trend: both franchises have made or are making 2020s-era returns after jumps to the small screen, in flicks sharing the same name as the original movies in each saga and featuring OG cast members. First came 2022's Scream. Next arrives 2025's I Know What You Did Last Summer. Once again, Jennifer Love Hewitt (9-1-1) follows in Neve Campbell's (The Lincoln Lawyer) footsteps — and as Scream did, I Know What You Did Last Summer picks up with a mix of recognisable and new talents. As the sneak peeks for cinema's return to Southport illustrate, Freddie Prinze Jr (The Girl in the Pool) is also present again. Being stalked for their past misdeeds this time: Madelyn Cline (Outer Banks), Chase Sui Wonders (The Studio), Jonah Hauer-King (The Tattooist of Auschwitz), Tyriq Withers (Me) and Sarah Pidgeon (The Friend). On the big screen on Thursday, July 17, 2025 Down Under, the results will play out — aka a group of friends getting involved in a car accident where someone dies, they cover it up and vow not to tell anyone, but that secret and a vengeance-seeking killer haunts them a year later. The new film layers in the fact that this has all happened in the past, with the quintet in focus needing help from two survivors of the Southport Massacre of 1997. Enter Hewitt and Prinze Jr, as part of a cast that also includes Billy Campbell (Mr & Mrs Smith), Gabbriette Bechtel (Idiotka) and Austin Nichols (The Six Triple Eight). Starting as a 1973 novel, which Williamson adapted into the first 1997 film, I Know What You Did Last Summer initially spawned two sequels: 1998's I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and 2006's I'll Always Know What You Did Last Summer. Then came that shortlived television effort. On the franchise's return to the big screen, Do Revenge filmmaker Jennifer Kaytin Robinson directs — and continues her connection with the OG I Know What You Did Last Summer cast, given that Sarah Michelle Gellar (Dexter: Original Sin) featured in that 2022 movie. Check out the trailer for I Know What You Did Last Summer below: I Know What You Did Last Summer releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
If making TV shows and movies bubbles down to a formula, it's simple to see how The Tourist came about. Starring Jamie Dornan as a man caught up in a mystery in Australia's sprawling outback, this six-part series jumps on several popular trends — saddling a famous face with battling the Aussie elements chief among them (see also: the upcoming film Gold, which plonks Zac Efron amid the nation's dusty, yellow-hued expanse). Dornan's trip Down Under also plunges into a familiar thriller setup, with memory loss playing a key role. Memento famously did it. The Flight Attendant did as well. Combine the two, throw in all that striking scenery that constantly defines Australia on-screen, and that's the template beneath this easy-to-binge newcomer. Every thriller that hits a streaming platform and drops all of its episodes in one go wants you to keep watching until you've watched the whole thing at once, of course. That's television 101 in the online age. The Tourist fits the bill perfectly again, but also because it has fun with its premise — and its onslaught of twists. Dornan isn't in goofy, silly territory here, as he was so gloriously in 2021 standout Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. The Tourist doesn't satirise any of its underlying components, either. Nonetheless, it knows that zigzagging thrillers that work from a clearcut roadmap should make their familiar pieces feel anything but. They should take their audience along for a wild ride and ensure they enjoy the many sights, even if they're largely driving down a recognisable road. Adding another TV role to his resume alongside The Fall, Death and Nightingales, New Worlds and Once Upon a Time — and another part to his eclectic filmography, given that he's been in the vastly dissimilar Synchronic and Wild Mountain Thyme in the past year, and looks set to get an Oscar nomination this year for nostalgic drama Belfast — Dornan plays an Irish traveller in Australia. The character's name doesn't matter at first, when he's using the bathroom at a petrol station in the middle of nowhere. But after he's run off the road by a steamrolling long-haul truck shortly afterwards, he desperately wishes he could remember his own moniker, plus everything else about his past. Local Constable Helen Chalmers (Danielle Macdonald, French Exit) takes a shine to him anyway; however, piecing together his history is far from straightforward. His other immediate questions: why is he in the middle of Australia, why does a bomb go off in his vicinity and why is he getting calls from a man trapped in an underground barrel? A diner waitress called Luci (Shalom Brune-Franklin, Line of Duty), the American-accented Billy (Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Trapped), city-based Detective Inspector Lachlan Rogers (Damon Herriman, Mindhunter) and the determined Kostas (Alex Dimitriades, Total Control), who flies in from Greece and won't stop sipping from his water bottle: they all factor into The Man's fish-out-of-water, stranger-in-an unforgiving-land tale, too, and they all inspire plenty of questions as well. Why does that aforementioned bomb go off just as The Man and Luci step out of the diner? What does Billy want at the hospital? Why does Rogers take the case when he could easily leave it with junior officers? And what's motivating Kostas' trip to the outback? Written by brothers Harry and Jack Williams (Angela Black), and hailing from the Emmy-winning production company behind The Missing and Fleabag, The Tourist enjoys teasing out those queries — and diving headfirst into its slickly uneasy air. It expectedly draws tension from its setting, but also benefits from a visual palette that bleaches every image of its cooler hues, and from framing that repeatedly dwarfs The Man against his surroundings. They're smart touches in a show that has its protagonist take in his life with fresh eyes, hardly relish what he spots and understandably feel overwhelmed by all the chaos that keeps speeding his way. The Tourist rarely dwells on The Man's inner turmoil — it isn't a character study, and doesn't pretend to be — but it still savvily expresses his emotional state in every shot. Pushing 50 Shades of Grey and its sequels further into the past with every new role, Dornan slips into The Tourist like someone rediscovering their comfort zone — and he's in excellent company. Macdonald has been impressing on-screen since 2017's Patti Cake$, and ensures that The Tourist is as much Helen's story as it is The Man's. It's as much about the ambitious-but-constantly-underestimated rookie cop finding herself as her new pal is doing, too. Fresh from playing Charles Manson not once but twice thanks to Mindhunter and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Herriman also turns what might've been a stock-standard part into something far more complex. The Williams siblings deserve plenty of credit for baking many of their twists into their characters, but there's an almost-comic air to Herriman's determined detective that's all the Aussie talent's own. A well-greased concept, a confident approach, clever plotting, a fabulous cast: they're all on offer here, and they hit their marks. Add the script's smattering of memorable, nearly Coen brothers-esque lines and, whether it's hurtling in a straight line or zipping quickly around unexpected corners, The Tourist couldn't be more watchable — or bingeable. Check out the trailer for The Tourist below: The Tourist is available to stream via Stan in Australia and TVNZ On Demand in New Zealand.
Acclaimed visual artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran has transformed Sullivan+Strumpf's Zetland gallery with a series of surreal sculptures for his new exhibition The Guardians. The Sydney-based Sri Lankan-born artist has created an array of ceramic and bronze statues depicting colourful figures which he's named The Guardians. Simultaneously beautiful and ghoulish, the figures have been crafted by Nithiyendran using building and glazing strategies. The figures vary significantly in shape and size, from mid-sized creatures to multi-coloured larger-than-life creations. According to Nithiyendran, "the figure's allusions to ideas around regeneration, renewal and even collapse are particularly pertinent in our current global climate defined by social, environmental and public health shifts/upheaval". The Guardians follow exhibitions from Nithiyendran at the Gold Coast's Home of the Arts, Tasmania's Dark MOFO and the Art Gallery of New South Wales including a 70-sculpture exhibition titled Avatar Towers as part of Archie Plus. You can catch the exhibition from Thursday, October 14 through until Saturday, November 13 and entry is free. The gallery is open 10am–5pm, Tuesday–Saturday. [caption id="attachment_828750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran in his studio with Four headed seated figure, 2021, earthenware, approx 119 x 41 x 35cm. Photo courtesy the artist and Sullivan+Strumpf.[/caption]
David Spanton might just be Kings Cross' biggest fan. Not once but twice now, Spanton has saved a beloved venue in The Cross that has gone up for sale. And post-rescue, the longstanding spaces are turned into vibrant new bars dedicated to their predecessors. First, it was Piccolo Bar, a tiny Roslyn Street institution that Spanton saved and rejuvenated in late 2021. This time, he's taken the former digs of Cafe Hernandez on Kings Cross Road onboard. The 24-hour cafe had been operating on this leafy street for 50 years — with Spanton recounting visits from the likes of Frank Sinatra and Guns N' Roses over the years. Worried it would be turned into a fashion boutique or hairdresser after the Hernandez family decided to step away from the venue, Spanton came to the rescue, purchasing the property and transforming it into a bar devoted to fortified wine, fittingly called Vermuteria. Much like Piccolo, Vermuteria showcases a small specialised drinks menu and a range of tasty snacks, with vermouth and sherry at the heart of the booze offering. The best place to start here is your choice of the Euro sweet rosso blend vermouth ($11 by the glass, $35 carafe) and the Aussie pinot noir vermouth with the semi-dry bianco blend ($15 by the glass, $45 carafe) poured straight from the tap. If you're on the lookout for a cocktail, take your pick from the many options utilising the bar's namesake ingredient. You can opt for the likes of negronis ($23), the house 50:50 martinis ($22), spritzes ($23), white sangria ($19) and sherry cobblers ($25). Prior to being Cafe Hernandez, the space was once a Polish deli. To honour this heritage, the back of the venue has been converted into a mini provisions store, with bottles of vermouth, tinned seafood, hot sauces, coffee, books, plates and Vermuteria merch all on sale. The snack menu is also deli-inspired, with charcuterie from LP's Quality Meats (from $14), gildas ($10), tinned seafood like the Pollastrini spicy sardines ($20) and the Cuca tinned squid in ink ($24), cheese plates ($33) and hot dogs ($19). There is also something a little sweet available for those with a sugar craving — cake by the slice (with ice cream), on offer for $15. "There's definitely a much more positive vibe going on in Kings Cross," Spanton told Concrete Playground. "I think that a lot of great venues are starting to open in the area and a lot of places are starting to get a lot busier. I think the customers are loving that there's a lot more going on. And, I think that Kings Cross and Potts Point have some of the best customers." Collaborating with Michael Delany (Cafe Freda's, Club 77, The Abercrombie and SHADES) on the design, Spanton has breathed new life into the space. The new fitout maintains elements of the original cafe including an original painting from earlier owner Paquita Sabrafen depicting the Count-Duke of Olivares, on which she has superimposed her husband's face. Accompanying this massive artwork is photos from the cafe and deli through the years, plus playful memorabilia like signed celebrity photos and rare vermouth bottles. If something piques your interest, just ask Spanton about it and he's sure to take you on a journey through its history. Images: Chris Pearce.
If you eagerly drink your way through the taps at most craft beer bars, then a host of tell-tale signs await the next day: headaches, cold sweats, dehydration, a queasy stomach and a strong craving for greasy food, usually. That won't be the case at BrewDog's latest venture, however, with the Scottish brewery opening up the world's first alcohol-free craft beer joint. Called BrewDog AF — with the final two letters standing for "alcohol-free", rather than the other term that instantly popped into your head — the bar launches in London on Monday, January 6. Every one of its 15 taps will pour booze-free brews, focusing on draught craft beer sans alcohol. That includes both zero-percent and 0.5-percent tipples, with the latter also officially classed as alcohol-free. On the menu: BrewDog's 0.5-percent pale ale Nanny State, as well as the alcohol-free version of their flagship Punk IPA, Punk AF. It's also creating two new booze-free brews: a coffee stout called Wake Up Call, and Hazy AF, an alcohol-free version of its New England IPA, Hazy Jane. Alcohol-free spirits and cider will be available too, as will burgers, salads and buffalo wings — and if you're looking for something to do over your booze-free pint, get ready for karaoke and bingo, among other activities. While BrewDog has been busy opening bars and breweries around the globe over the past decade — launching its first Australian site in Brisbane late in 2019, in fact — BrewDog AF marks its first fully alcohol-free venue. It's not London's first booze-free bar, or the world's, but it is the first to focus on alcohol-free (and hangover-free) craft brews. To celebrate that fact, as well as the new range of booze-free beers, the brewery has also dubbed the entire month 'drink all you can Jan' — when it comes to alcohol-free beers, that is. Not only at BrewDog AF, but at all of BrewDog's bars and breweries worldwide, drinkers can score free refills of all alcohol-free beers throughout January. BrewDog AF and its increased non-alcoholic craft brew range forms part of the company's mission to whip up a craft beer for everyone, including folks who like their brews sans booze. As brewery founder James Watt explains, "drinkers opting for low or no alcohol are in danger of compromising on quality, taste and experience. And that's just the beer – forget about places in which to enjoy it. We are going to change that. We exist to be a point of difference, and our first BrewDog AF Bar is just that." Even if a trip to London isn't in your future, BrewDog's new venture is a welcome development for anyone who has tried to forgo alcohol during Dry July, doesn't drink booze but would still like to sink a few cold ones with their mates, or can't imbibe for a number of reasons — medication interactions, other health reasons or just by choice. With non-alcoholic spirits like Seedlip and Brunswick Aces gaining more attention, bars such BrewDog AF are the natural next step. Yes, you can get non-boozy beverages like juice and soft drinks anywhere, but it's not the same as knocking back booze-free beers in a spot that celebrates the drink but not the alcohol. Find the BrewDog AF Bar at the Mews Unit of the Bower Development at 211 Old Street, London, from Monday, January 6 — open 12pm–11pm Sunday–Thursday and 12pm–11.30pm Friday–Saturday. For booze-free beer lovers in Brisbane, BrewDog's first Aussie brewery — DogTap at Murarrie — is serving up unlimited refills of BrewDog alcohol-free beers until January 31.
On Saturday, October 26, prepare to experience Australia's largest LGBTQIA+ Halloween party. A haunting takeover of Liberty Hall will go from dusk till dawn (6pm–2am), so get ready for a night full of eerie excitement, spine-tingling surprises, and ghostly good vibes. Brought to you by Sydney based LGBTQIA+ events company, GAYM Entertainment, this spook fest will star local artists and international headliners in the DJ booth, including Dani Brasil, John Course, Mario Beckman, Nat Valverde, Sam Gee and Tommy Trash. Two custom-built stages, both indoors and outdoors, will deliver a high-energy mix of house, tech, tribal, and circuit beats. Expect scream-worthy performances and blood-curdling roaming characters to keep the thrills and chills alive throughout the night. To keep you fuelled up for the festivities, food trucks will be dishing up tasty bites all night long and the signature scare tunnel is making its return, offering spine-chilling frights just like in previous Horrorween events. Final tickets are on sale now, so don't delay in securing your spot at this strictly 18+ party.
Hidden down the south end of King Street in Newtown, Bloodwood is handy before an Enmore gig and easy to get to from the station. You can grab a seat in the bar or head to the dining area on the upper level of Bloodwood, where bare light bulbs hang both precariously and artistically from the ceiling. The menu, created by head chef and owner Claire Van Vuuren, is eccentric and inventive while still maintaining that homey, hearty feel. Most of the dishes are designed to share. A fan-favourite is the vegan pecan pâtê served with charred bread, they are also selling these by the jar to take home. There are plenty of other vegetarian dishes like a chickpea pancake with zucchini, peas and feta. Or, the sautéed butternut with cucumber, chilli, coconut and a crunchy hit of puffed rice. For carnivores, there's a hearty braised lamb shoulder served with peperonata, polenta and zhug (a green Yemeni hot sauce) and a fragrant grilled pork with cavolo nero. The wine list at Bloodwood is also a standout, boasting sustainable, natural wines on a list that's won more than a few critical acclaims. You'll also find several cocktails on the menu, plus beers of the local, international and 'fancy' varieties. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Remember when your parents threw dinner parties when you were a kid? Your parents had likely planned the menu well in advance, pulled out the good crockery, and cleaned the house in a frenzy. It was gorgeous, of course, but it was also a colossal effort. Thankfully, the popularity of formal dining at home took a nosedive, and now we want the kind of easy and elevated dining experience that Pinterest has championed: relaxed, but still worthy of sharing pictures across the internet. Which brings us a new kind of challenge, when you search 'dinner party ideas' you'll get 275 million results and too many options to choose from. So to help cut through the anxiety you may be feeling about hosting your next dinner party, we've partnered with super premium French vodka Grey Goose to bring you a guide on how to host an elevated evening meal at home that won't cost you your entire pay cheque (or your sanity). Read on for some sensory inspiration. TASTE Arguably the most important part of a dinner party (aside from your guests) is the food and drink, so don't let this part trip you up. Repeat after me: delegation is key. Nobody expects you to do this on your own (and foot the expenses, too), so when people offer to bring something, assign them a dish immediately. Keep it simple with cheese, charcuterie or a salad. For drinks, rest assured that everyone will bring their own beer or wine, so flex your hosting skills by having a pre-dinner cocktail ready for when everyone arrives. So fancy! So adult! The Grey Goose Peach Spritz is an elegant cocktail that's easy to make. Simply build 40ml of Grey Goose Original with 20ml of peach puree, 10ml of lemon juice, 10ml of sugar syrup and 45ml of sparkling rose in a wine glass. Stir and top with a sprig of rosemary. Look at you go! [caption id="attachment_751536" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Creative Commons: Flickr/Eva Coudyser[/caption] SIGHT Your parents were onto something with all those candles they lit at their weekend soirees; lighting really is important. Fairy lights, lamps, tea lights = good ambiance. That dodgy fluro light in the living room = bad vibes. You don't live in a dive bar. Once you've picked out the lights that suit your home, spruce up the rest of the house. Hide any clutter, put something floral on the table, and pull out some old photos. Not only will this serve as decoration, but it'll also work as an ice-breaker for any guests that might not know each other that well. Bonus points if the photos contain questionable haircuts circa 2010. [caption id="attachment_751529" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Creative Commons: Flickr/Marco Verch[/caption] SMELL They say the smell of baking bread is used by real estate agents to attract home buyers — and it's a very comforting aroma. Rather than baking your own loaf of sourdough for the occasion (#toohardbasket), stop by one of the best bakeries in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and pick up something ready made. Heat it up in the oven, and cut up thick slices to throw on a cheese board. Your gluten-free/low-carb/Keto friends probably won't eat it, but everyone will appreciate the smell. And if your sense of smell is chef-level impressive, see if you can pick out the notes of French baguettes in the Grey Goose vodka, as the same winter wheat is used to make the vodka as bakers use to make the country's famed pastries. [caption id="attachment_751744" align="alignnone" width="1920"] InBed[/caption] TOUCH Two words: table linen. It makes a real difference — and you can create a tactile environment really easily with one throw-over table cloth from linen purveyors like InBed (from $110) to more affordable homewares stores like IKEA (from $19.99). In a pinch, you can always use a picnic rug, or a sarong, to dress the table. Next, create an inviting environment where people can congregate after a big meal. Grab all the blankets from your bedroom, and get some hygge happening. Imagine a pillow fort, but more chic. SOUND When it comes to music, people fall into one of two categories: the effortlessly cool people who have a record player (and a well-curated vinyl collection) and those who rely on the old faithful Spotify and wireless speakers, which wins points for being totally customisable. If you choose to use a music streaming service during dinner, please abide by the cardinal rules: pay for premium (so you don't have pesky ads interrupting the mood) and use 'private session' so you don't add the tracks to your algorithm. Alternatively, rely on pre-made playlists like Front Left; the latest tracks become conversation starters. [embed]https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX5WTH49Vcnqp[/embed] Upgrade your dinner party by choosing premium vodka Grey Goose. Each bottle is distilled in France, and the high quality vodka has a 100 percent traceable production process, from crop to cork.
When Alex Honnold scales a nearly kilometre-high cliff, it's with a look of fierce determination blazing in his eyes. When the professional climber discusses the extraordinary feat documented in Free Solo, the same no-nonsense vibe filters through his voice. He's never sombre — just direct. Ask him how it feels to venture to such great heights, and his response is "pretty good". Ask him about the possibility that his death could've been caught on camera, and he says he "basically didn't really care". As newly Oscar-nominated documentary Free Solo chronicles, Honnold made history while scampering up Yosemite's National Park's famous El Capitan rock formation. Plenty of climbers have propelled themselves up the granite monolith's 900-metre vertical expanse, but only Honnold has successfully done so without ropes. The practice is called free climbing. When it's done alone, it's called free soloing. Made plain in the title of Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin's film, Honnold's record-breaking quest to the top was completed by himself without any supportive or protective equipment. Unsurprisingly, it's a feat that has garnered significant attention — but reading news articles and seeing photographs really doesn't do it justice. Honnold notes that "the film doesn't quite do justice to the real scale of it" either, but watching Free Solo is as close as the rest of the world will get — and for many, as close as they'll ever want to get — to stepping into his climbing boots. Assisted by their filmmaking team, Vasarhelyi and Chin assemble an astonishing array of footage, with their connection to climbing evident in every frame. A real-life couple, they both directed acclaimed climbing documentary Meru, while Chin is also a professional climber in his own right. Of course, as exceptional as Free Solo's footage is — and as skilled as making viewers feel like they're making the nerve-racking climb with its subject, too — there would be no film without Honnold. He describes scaling El Cap as "an Olympic gold medal-level athletic achievement... and if you don't get that gold medal, you're going to die", in case the whole situation didn't already sound difficult and dangerous enough. Fresh from garnering considerable applause on the international film circuit, an array of accolades from critics groups and now an Academy Award nomination, Free Solo has arrived in Australian cinemas to share its thrills with eager cinema-goers. We spoke to Honnold about the motivation behind his love of climbing, his preparation process and the difficulties of opening his life up to the camera. [caption id="attachment_706084" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Geographic/Jimmy Chin[/caption] THE BIG QUESTION: WHY FREE SOLO? There's an enormous question at the heart of Honnold's climb — one that he recognises himself and that he can't completely answer. When asked what it is about free soloing that appeals to him, he replies: "I don't know, it's just a challenge that I seek out". That might sound like a blasé approach to a dangerous field where many experienced figures have died doing what they loved, but Honnold is anything but. In the film, he's meticulous about his work, documenting his progress in climbing journals, memorising complex moves and even living in his van so that he can remain as close as possible to El Cap. "It's just a more demanding style of climbing," he explains. "It requires more from you, so I feel that it gives a little bit more back in return." While Honnold also mentions finding personal limits and trying his hardest — "it's something I feel like I can do, and I feel a certain obligation to do the hard things that I'm capable of" — what truly shines through is how much he enjoys climbing. "I think it has always been the most fun part of my life," he reflects. "It's funny, because I think the really difficult parts of my life are doing the film tour and travelling and just doing appearances as a professional climber, and doing events — you know, working, things like that." That said, Honnold is also quick to stress the difference between climbing in general and free soloing. "Free soloing is pretty rewarding, but it is very difficult and challenging. If I could only choose one style of climbing for the rest of my life, it wouldn't be free soloing." [caption id="attachment_706086" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Geographic/Jimmy Chin[/caption] GETTING RID OF THE ROPES "Part of it is intense, but then part of it is amazing. A lot of it just has to do with which part of the route you're on." That's Honnold's assessment of climbing in general — so what made him decide to free solo El Cap, the route that was "always the last one [on his list] that was aspirational"? Initially, he thought it was too frightening, but that's where planning and training came in. It might seem incredulous to the watching audience, but "two years' preparation made something very scary feel relatively comfortable by the end," he notes. Given the life-and-death stakes at play, Honnold's training — which included two years of practice and climbing El Cap with a rope eight times — prepared him to take the leap. "There was no pressure to actually do the climb, so if I had never felt prepared for it — had I never felt comfortable — then I just wouldn't have done it". Of course, he wasn't just hopping to survive the climb, but to enjoy it. "Part of what was so satisfying about it was that I had exactly the experience that I was hoping for. Through the course of making the film, I spent so much time up there working on it, that when I finally did it, it felt great." HOW THE CAMERAS CHANGED THE CLIMB Honnold recognises that watching free soloing is hard. "I don't like to watch my friends free solo. Nobody really likes to watch free soloing — because, as you see here, and as audiences experience, it's just uncomfortable to watch somebody in that kind of position." It should come so no surprise, then, that the impact of the cameras on Honnold's climb — and the impact of his mammoth endeavour upon Vasarhelyi, Chin and their team — is as much a part of Free Solo as the eventual feat itself. Indeed, the documentary doesn't shy away from the emotional toll on those recording Honnold's every move, or the planning that went into ensuring that the filming process didn't take a toll on Honnold. "The crew did a remarkable job of insulating me from any of those [negative] feelings and just staying neutral throughout it all," says Honnold, noting that the cameras didn't feel like they changed his experience "at all". That said, if something had gone awry, Honnold wasn't worried for himself, or about the fact that his literal downfall would be caught on camera. "To me, if something went wrong — if I fell off and I died — I don't really care what happens to the footage after that because I'm dead," he says. Instead, his concerns lay with traumatising the camera crew, who are also his climbing pals. Honnold doesn't just expose the most dangerous moments of his life to Free Solo, however. The film also dives deep into his personal life, including his relationship with new girlfriend Sanni McCandless, which becomes strained as her worry for his safety and their life together is largely ignored as Honnold zeros in on his goal. As someone who'd clearly rather get on with the business of climbing, rather than talk about it, it's the more intimate side of his daily existence that proved the hardest part to share — and to watch later. "I cringed my way through that. I normally pull my hood really deep and cover my eyes. It's hard to watch. And a lot of it is hard to watch because I'm just not a great boyfriend and I'm not a great partner to Sanni." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XhsuT0xctI Free Solo is now screening in Australian cinemas. Read our full review. Images: Madman / National Geographic / Jimmy Chin.
Back from a visit to 'Brucefest' in Kyogle, upper NSW — named, fittingly, after my Uncle Bruce — I have seen the glory of the backyard music festival and have returned to spread the word. Brucefest emerged one year ago, simply enough, from my uncle's need to burn off some extra lumber cluttering the paddock. Why not have a bonfire, he thought? On that note, why not have some mates round to watch the bonfire? In fact, why not have some tunes? For that matter, why not build my own stage? Thus, with a little ingenuity, Brucefest was born. While the constructed stage was certainly a testament to the carpentry skills of the Newton clan, the main thing I take away from Brucefest — as I watched my uncle and a ragtag collection of local Kyogle musos spend the night hopping on and off stage, switching easily between drum solos, stoking the bonfire and mingling with the crowd — is that anyone with a few talented mates can do this. Combine a jam session with a few microphones, a crowd of your mates and some open space, and the possibilities are endless. Whether it be a garage-punk do crammed in an inner west back lane or a blues and roots jam in Bruce's back paddock, the home-grown vibe just can't be beat. Without further ado, here's a few dos and don'ts for getting your own 'insert-name-here-Fest' off the ground. DO CONSIDER GOING RURAL If you know someone with a rural property I would infinitely recommend this over your typical suburban lane fest. Yes, it’s oh-so-Melbourne to be crammed into tiny lanes, chilling in the gutter with your longneck in a paper bag, but come on, look at this place. The chance to watch the sun go down behind your very own stage and have room to dance despite the crowds just can’t be beat. DON'T MAKE IT BIGGER THAN YOU CAN HANDLE The whole idea of a backyard music festival is that it's small enough that you and your mates can run it. Make sure you've got a setting that can actually fit the amount of people you're wanting and won't have the cops shutting you down in a half hour. You'll probably find that you and your mates and the bands and their mates are pretty much all you need. Remember, when the music stops, the clean-up begins. Note: Public Facebook pages are your enemy. DON'T FORGET TO PLAN THE STAGE We can’t all be carpenters like my moustachioed Uncle Bruce, (although sometimes we really want to be). So if you’re wanting to construct a stage that isn’t going to collapse underneath your best act and electrocute the bassist, then you had best put a little thought into the technical side of things. Have a think about how you're planning on hooking up your bands to power, whether you’re going to be needing some lighting and (if you’re playing on a grassy knoll) how you’re going to keep your bands out of the mud. DON'T STRESS TOO MUCH ABOUT MAKING A LINEUP THAT FLOWS The beauty of a backyard fest is that there are no rules. Recruit anyone you know who you want to hear and enjoy the freedom to put together bands that would otherwise never be on the same stage. I guarantee you that you know more good musicians than you think you do and that you'll have more fun watching your mates merge reggae with punk than you would listening to a tight lineup intended to please the crowd. From experience, the best part of your night is going to be when every single guitarist present jumps the stage to play the 'Johnny Be Good' solo simultaneously. DO/DON'T HAVE A BONFIRE This one’s a little less than clean cut. On the one hand: it's cold at night and bonfires are magical things. Burning off your extra lumber pile will provide a surprising amount of heat for your frost-bitten crowd and keep you going through the night. On the other hand: Do not have a bonfire. If you are not on a rural property and you have never managed a bonfire before, then bonfires are not your jam. It’s all fun and games until a stray spark lands on an inner west terrace and you’ve gone and burnt the whole neighbourhood down. DON'T ORGANISE THE FOOD YOURSELF What, are you crazy? You’ll spend the whole day in the kitchen and checking supplies and you will miss the whole thing, regardless of whether or not you think you have catering skills of my Aunt Judy. You don't. Either get people to bring their own or sort out a food truck that wants in on the day. DO REMEMBER TO TELL THE NEIGHBOURS Might seem like a hassle, but if you don’t get the neighbours on board with what you’re planning in advance, then you’re just going to get shut down by the cops before you get to the good stuff. If you’re living rural and your neighbours are a 10 minute drive down the road, then the only thing you have to remember is not to freak out the livestock. Which brings us, finally, to... DO REMEMBER TO TURN THE ELECTRIC FENCES OFF Though remember that if you turn the electric fences off, the livestock may come for a listen. Holding a rural fest might mean making a choice between zapping your mates and sharing a dance with a few friendly cows. Livestock and crowds are never the best mix, but I can promise you that when you see two little girls dancing around that bright white wire, you'll be more than happy to know that the fence is turned off. If your four-legged friends pay you a visit, just treat them with respect and let them bask in the tunes. I know from experience they are big fans of a good Tracy Chapman cover, the big softies. Top image: Dollar Photo Club. Other images and videos by Elise Newton.
Looking for somewhere to take a splash Down Under but feeling spoiled for choice thanks to Australia's thousands of beaches? Here's one way to pick where to head: Manly Beach in Sydney has just been anointed the seventh best beach in the world for 2024, and also the best beach in the South Pacific for this year as well. Tripadvisor bestowed the honours, as part of its annual lineup of top coastal spots. The New South Wales choice is the only Aussie destination to make the global top ten and top 25. Australia has form with the travel website's picks. Back in 2017, Whitehaven Beach ranked 17th. Jump to 2021 and the same Queensland spot came in first, with Turquoise Bay in Exmouth, Western Australia in sixth. Then, in 2022, the WA beach ranked third in the world. The state was also home to Australia's best-placed piece of shoreline in 2023, when Cable Beach came in third. [caption id="attachment_891589" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Manly Beach[/caption] Manly Beach was recognised as the world's seventh-best beach for 2024 and Australia's top beach for 2024 partly for being a good spot for walking and shopping in the vicinity. Tripadvisor also recommends that heading along between March–May and September–November is better for temperatures and sparser crowds. In 2024, Manly Beach sits behind Portugal's Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Agua, which was named the number-one beach for the year — plus Spiaggia dei Conigli in Lampedusa, Italy in second; La Concha Beach, San Sebastian, Donostia, Spain in third; Ka'anapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii, US in fourth; and Grace Bay Beach in Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos in fifth. In sixth: Anse Lazio on Praslin Island in the Seychelles. From the full top 25, beaches in Aruba, Cuba, Mexico, Iceland, Brazil, Costa Rica, Greece and Tanzania are among the other places to earn a spot on the list. [caption id="attachment_891588" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cable Beach[/caption] Among South Pacific beaches, Manly Beach emerged victorious over Cable Beach, as well as five other Aussie locations and one from New Zealand. Queensland was home to four of the Australian picks, thanks to Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas, Surfers Paradise Beach, Mooloolaba Beach and Whitehaven Beach. The other: Emily Bay on Norfolk Island. Aotearoa's recognition came via Mt Maunganui Main Beach. The two beaches deemed the best in the South Pacific that aren't from Down Under? Matira Beach on Society Island in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, which placed third and Piscine Naturelle, Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia, which came in eighth. Across both the worldwide and South Pacific rankings, winners were chosen as part of Tripadvisor's Traveller's Choice awards, which is based on millions of reviews and ratings left on the online platform from October 2022–September 2023. [caption id="attachment_891592" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whitehaven Beach[/caption] Top 25 Beaches in the World for 2024: Praia da Falésia, Olhos de Agua, Portugal Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa, Italy La Concha Beach, San Sebastian, Donostia, Spain Ka'anapali Beach, Lahaina, Hawaii, US Grace Bay Beach, Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Anse Lazio, Praslin Island, Seychelles Manly Beach, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Eagle Beach, Palm-Eagle Beach, Aruba Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida, US Varadero Beach, Varadero, Cuba Playa Pilar, Cayo Guillermo, Jardines del Rey Archipelago Balandra Beach, La Paz, Mexico Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland Poipu Beach Park, Poipu, Koloa, Kauai, Hawai Seven Mile Beach, Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands Playa de Las Canteras, Gran Canaria, Spain Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Playa Manuel Antonio, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Falassarna Beach, Crete, Greece Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar Island, Tanzania Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Indonesia Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, Mexico Muro Alto Beach, Porto de Galinhas, Brazil Top Ten Beaches in the South Pacific for 2024: Manly Beach, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia, Australia Matira Beach, Society Island, Bora Bora, French Polynesia Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia Surfers Paradise Beach, Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia Mooloolaba Beach, Mooloolaba, Queensland, Australia Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia Piscine Naturelle, Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia Emily Bay, Norfolk Island, Australia Mt Maunganui Main Beach, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand [caption id="attachment_891590" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matira Beach[/caption] [caption id="attachment_891591" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mooloolaba Beach[/caption] To check out the full list of top beaches for 2024, head to Tripadvisor. Images: Getty Images / Tripadvisor. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
While it's important to take time during Mardi Gras to learn and appreciate the history of the festival and the movement behind it, it's also incredibly important to remember that Mardi Gras is a protest wrapped up in a party. And there ain't no party like a deep house party. Sydney's biggest house event for the gay community and their friends, I Remember House runs a few times throughout the year, and they never fail to deliver on the best house music on offer. The lascivious lineup for the Mardi Gras special event pools talent from around the world and will set them loose at the Ivy on Saturday, February 25.
It's one of the world's biggest sporting goods retail brands, found in over 30 countries and dubbed by many as 'the ALDI of activewear'. And now, France's famed Decathlon — which launched an online store here last year — has physically hit Aussie shores, yesterday opening the doors to an enormous Sydney flagship store. Located in Tempe Retail Park next to Ikea, the new space is a monster 3800 square metres, stocked with an impressive 7000 sport-related products and promising savings galore. And to see locals happily through the festive season, it's set to stay open 24/7 for the next two weeks. If you've got a sports nut or fitness fiend in your life, put this one at the very top of your Christmas shopping hit-list. CEO of Decathlon Australia Mr Olivier Robinet said that the company wants to make sport accessible to all locals. "Australians are some of the most active people in the world, the whole country is like a playground," he explained. "Until now many Australians have had to spend hundreds of dollars to get a quality product. Decathlon has now changed this." So how cheap is it? Well, a pair of yoga pants range will set you back between $12 and $40, while a two-person tent is $30. More than just a standard store, Decathlon's Tempe venue also features dedicated active zones, where customers can roadtest certain products, and its own community sporting areas, where local sports clubs can host sign-up days, barbecues and fundraising events. Find Decathlon at Tempe Retail Park, 634–726 Princes Highway, Tempe. The store will be open 24/7 in the lead-up to Christmas and then 5am till midnight in 2018. For more info, visit decathlon.com.au. Image: Decathlon via Facebook.
If your seaside memories are painted with velvet pine trees, striped umbrellas and sand yellowed with rose-tinted glasses, look no further than Avoca for your next foray out of the city. Despite becoming a hot spot for tourists chasing great coffee, food, surf and adventure, it's managed to keep a firm hold on that laidback, they-all-must-be-locals ambience by not becoming overdeveloped. Situated just 95km north of the Sydney CBD, Avoca makes a perfect day trip or weekend away, even when a winter wind blows across the beach. Just pull your cable knit around you, stare meaningfully into the sea and then snuggle into the area's characterful cafes, eateries and shops. SEE AND DO Your first priority in Avoca is obviously to visit the beach — a 1km stretch of golden sand protected by headlands and dotted with beach chairs, umbrellas and surfboards. It's a great swimming beach, popular with families, and has patrol flags at each end and a safe shallow kiddie pool by the Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC). Scramble around the rocks at the south head to find a platform of stunning rock pools and anglers taking advantage of the abundant sea below. Avoca is known for its surf and has great waves for beginners and advanced surfers. The Central Coast Surf School offers group and private lessons as well as two-day courses for all ages. Old hands can rent a board at Three Points Surf on Avoca Drive. If paddle boarding or paddle boating is more your speed, head to Avoca Lake beach behind the Avoca shopping village (or follow the lake's inlet from the centre of the beach), where you can hire a board from Aquafun for just $4, as well as kayaks, canoes and boats. Visiting scuba divers of all levels can explore the ex-HMAS Adelaide just 1.8 kilometres off Avoca Beach. The naval warship was sunk in 2011 creating an artificial reef, now teaming with life. Terrigal Dive run six dives a day to the site on weekends, as well as a number of other dives. Those who want to get off the beaten track should take a short drive down the coast to Bouddi National Park. The 8 kilometre coastal walk is broken into bite-sized sections with bays and spectacular whale-watching lookouts. The beach of Maitland Bay is the gem of the journey and can be accessed via the first leg of the costal track from Putty Beach (3km) or a (steep!) paved track from the car park (1.5km). For a change of pace, wander around the Avoca village on Avoca Drive and indulge in a spot of shopping at Avoca Beach Antiques. The 31-year-old store has the Central Coast's largest collection of antique jewellery, sure to see you part with some cold hard ones. Also not to be missed is the adorable Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, located behind the SLSC on Avoca Drive. The fourth-generation family business, which opened on the Hunter family's front garden in 1948, was named in the BBC's Top 20 Cinemas Of The World in 2014 and has also won awards for its highly curated programming. If the weather is coaxing you to stay outdoors, at least pop in to see the antique decor inside. EAT AND DRINK In the last two years, Avoca has bucked the beach-town trend of revolving seasonal eateries and has developed a stable foodie scene of its own. For the best coffee in town, visit Becker & Co. owned by Dale Hunter, formerly of Bird & Bear Boathouse in Elizabeth Bay. Have your day brightened by the typographic inspirations on the walls while you chow down on a bacon and egg breakfast slider with chilli jam. Oomph Cafe & Food Store, the little sister to popular Oomph Cafe & Foodstore in East Gosford, has an extensive menu featuring specialty products from their store. Their gourmet burgers, the best in town, will force you back into the water to wash the juice from your elbows. If raw, organic or vegan is your jam, see the super-friendly staff at Wise Food Cafe. They have a full breakfast and lunch menu, but their array of sweet health treats is second to none in town. Like Minds, lakeside and slightly back from main drag, is another popular hang with a creative-space vibe. Sit outside with strangers on a garden table or admire the work of local artists on the walls inside, also available for purchase. The best dinner in town goes to Bombini, a modern Italian fine dining restaurant with a seasonal four-course menu of sustainable and local produce- some from it's own 2-acre kitchen garden. Those just after a place to drink can settle into a veranda booth with their choice of French, Italian and Australian wines and cocktails. They also have lunch and brunch on weekends and a pantry store selling their fresh bread baked daily. For a quiet night, dine in or takeaway from All Malay Malaysian Restaurant. Don't be surprised by its popularity night after night; the beef rendang and salt and pepper soft shell crab are exceptional. It's BYO, so pick up a drop from the BWS across the road on your way. If you can't move from the beach, not even for food, never mind. The Surf Life Saving Club kiosk serves Allpress Espresso, takeaway meals and the ever important ice-block. For beachside fish and chips head to Avoca Beach Seafoods. It's BYO and open till 8pm. When it's time for an afternoon beverage, check out Mojito Joe's above the Avoca Sands Cafe. It's known for its punchy rum-based cocktails and Pacific island-inspired share dishes. The Avoca Beach Hotel is the pub of choice, with live music every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. It's also the best spot in town to watch the footy. Any footy. Words and images by Annabel Campbell.
Phoenix Central Park is Sydney's most stunning secret. Hidden in Chippendale, the arts and music listening space only opens to the public for select performances. Spaces at these public shows are almost always allocated via a ballot, so it takes a little luck to get inside. The intricate space is the vision of philanthropist Judith Neilson AM, founder of the White Rabbit Gallery. The angular walls are reminiscent of New York's Guggenheim, while the central music space is a multi-level amphitheatre. When the artist arrives, the muted beige walls are often illuminated by colourful lighting displays, transforming the venue. If you haven't been lucky enough to find a way in, you can watch Phoenix's series of online performances, Halo. Featuring local favourites like A.Girl, Shady Nasty, Jitwam and Annie Hamilton, the stripped-back live shows illustrate the beauty of the space as well as the musicianship on offer. The venue is set to host three upcoming performances as part of Sydney Festival, all of which are open to the public via a ticket ballot. Top images: Jordan Munns and Gavin Green
Summer in Australia means sandy feet, mangos, and a speaker permanently in your beach bag playing the music that will soundtrack the season. But, did you know that just 8.4 percent of the music we consume as Aussies is actually Australian? Thelma Plum, Keli Holiday, G Flip, Ben Lee, Gordi and whole host of Australian musicians are asking us to Ausify our algorithms this month. Why? Because the more we play Aussie music the more momentum it gets. More gigs, more music. More stories that represent the rich fabric of what makes up Australia being told. Whether you're watching a summer storm roll in, dipping in and out of the surf, or manning the BBQ, here's some inspiration to Ausify your playlists this AusMusic month. Prefer your music live? Aussie artists are always touring. This month, you can catch Josh Pyke, The Reubens, Thelma Plum and more across the country. A Summer Walk View this post on Instagram A post shared by K I T A (@kitaalexander) With the smell of jasmine in the air and the sun on your skin, nothing beats a headphones-in walk by the Harbour Bridge or through your local neighbourhood. Try Ausifying your walking playlist with Ocean Alley for the perfect summer soundtrack with sun-soaked guitar and hypnotic vocals. For the times your walk needs heavy-hitting lyrics and a lot of feelings, add some Kita Alexander to your walk. Or, when you need more of a strut than a walk, press play on some Jessica Mauboy. A Boogie with Friends View this post on Instagram A post shared by keli holiday (@keliholiday) There are so many Aussie artists begging to soundtrack your summer dance parties. Keli Holiday's 'Dancing2' is shaping up to be the song of the summer and is an absolute joy to dance to, especially around the people you love the most. For something new, check out Ninajirachi. She has quickly gone from triple j Unearthed High finalist to an absolute night out playlist staple with a nostalgic EDM sound. For infectious beats that feel like they are made to be played on a balmy summer night, put on some Electric Fields. Watching a Storm Roll In View this post on Instagram A post shared by Beyond Productions (@beyondproductions.tv) An Australian summer isn't complete without an afternoon or two spent watching a storm roll in as the day's humidity finally snaps away. This calls for comforting, nostalgic and somehow thrilling tunes. Take Midnight Oil for example with their classic rock vibe perfect for watching a summer storm. Or blast some King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard for an anticipatory sound that somehow pairs perfectly with the impending approach of those telltale dark clouds. If you're looking to self-soothe and find comfort, Josh Pyke has the perfect ambient vibe to pair with claps of thunder and drops of rain. Road Trips View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thelma Plum (@thelmaplum) A road trip over summer is an Australian right of passage. Whether it's travelling to see family, chasing a waterfall on a scorching day, or driving to the coast to race through hot sand and dive into the sea, road trips feel like a summer non-negotiable. Missy Higgins 'Scar' is an essential accompaniment for watching the scenery pass by. Then, for those drives when you need poignant lyrics to scream along to, or maybe a boost of hometown nostalgia, Thelma Plum's music is road trip certified. Then, for something that will get the whole car going like a shot of espresso, hit play on Amyl and the Sniffers. Beach Day View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baker Boy (@dabakerboy) Nothing feels as good as that first beach day of the summer when the country slowly defrosts. A parmy at a surf club, sunscreen on your skin, and Aussie music playing on your speaker: the perfect day, really. For that welcome to summer feeling, Baker Boy makes the best feel-good, high-energy music to blast as the mercury rises. If you're spending a chill, surfy day by the water Xavier Rudd's music is the natural choice. But, if your beach days are more high-energy check out G Flip for big vocals and punchy beats. This summer, make it your mission to explore Aussie music. The more you explore, the more it gives back. Find out more at the Ausify website.
Wine lovers visiting New Zealand's biggest city are truly spoilt for choice. A cluster of award-winning and family-owned vineyards sit less than an hour's drive from the CBD, making it the perfect destination for your next short break. Dotted among the hillsides and bays of northern Auckland, Matakana has a warm climate that produces elegant reds — there are 28 varieties planted in the region, which makes it one of the most diverse wine growing areas in New Zealand. Here you'll find the only vineyard in the country to specialise solely in Italian grapes, French-inspired drops and an elaborate 'if you build it, they will come' sculpture park. Flights to Auckland from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are super short — around three-and-a-half hours on average — and Air New Zealand flies direct from all three cities and offers great everyday fares. SCULPTUREUM A Nike-wearing alligator, inspirational quotes from Steve Jobs, an exotic bird aviary and an 80-seat restaurant — Sculptureum isn't your average vineyard. After 12 years of design and development, Auckland-based lawyers Anthony and Sandra Grant opened the doors to their elaborate 'if you build it, they will come' space. The 25-acre site is located less than five minutes' drive from the Matakana village en route to Omaha (north of Auckland). After strolling through art-filled gardens, seeing a massive chandelier created by American glass artist Dale Chihuly and spotting large rabbits in a grassy arena named Rabbiton, it'll finally be time to sit down for a wine. On a sun-soaked hill beyond the gardens is the vineyard that produces Sculptureum's award-winning wines. Current varietals available include chardonnay, Bordeaux blend, syrah and rosé. They're best enjoyed by the glass with a meal at on-site restaurant Rothko — though you can always grab a bottle for later, too. BRICK BAY WINERY Brick Bay is another spot that incorporates boutique wines, a sculpture trail and a top-notch restaurant. Nestled amidst a patchwork of native bush and farmland, the winery is a magical setting for a short break out of the city. For a little over 32 years, the brand has made a name for itself crafting sustainable wines, notably the classic pinot gris and berry-driven rosé. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, tastings are held any time at on-site restaurant The Glasshouse for $8. Designed by respected architect Noel Lane, the building is exactly as the name suggests — a light-filled glass box, which sits over a lily-filled pond. For an additional fee, you'll also be given the opportunity to stroll around the sculpture trail and see work by some of New Zealand's top contemporary sculptors, including Paul Dibble, Terry Stringer and Judy Darraugh. The full trail takes around an hour to complete. HERON'S FLIGHT Heron's Flight is the only vineyard in New Zealand to specialise solely in Italian grapes. The winery was established 31 years ago by David Hoskins, whose work as a chemist, philosopher and winemaker makes him quite the renaissance man. Heron's Flight has been consistently committed to sustainable winemaking and can be found in the wine lists of top restaurants up and down New Zealand. Heron's Flight works with two grape varieties: sangiovese, which translates to 'the blood of Jupiter', and dolcetto, a variety which is often both dry and full-bodied. Tastings are available seven days a week, excluding public holidays. MATAKANA ESTATE Matakana Estate has been around since the boutique wine region first sprung to light more than 30 years ago. Under the care of Australian winemaker Richard Robson, the estate produces stylish, full-bodied chardonnay, syrah and pinot gris. With expansive views over the vineyard — the largest in the region — the tasting room is one of the most popular to visit for an afternoon of sniffing and swirling. That said, it's recommended to call ahead if you're looking to try a specific varietal. If you haven't sorted transportation for your return journey, the estate boasts a luxury lodge, which stands proudly on a ridge overlooking the Matakana valley and hills. It has room for up to eight merry guests. RUNNER DUCK ESTATE Runner Duck Estate is a boutique vineyard nestled in the Matakana valley, specialising in small quantities of French-inspired syrah, Bordeaux blends, pinot gris, sangiovese and rosé. After leaving behind a successful business in Mumbai and purchasing the estate, it was the objective of owners Clyde and Farida to produce a small amount of iconic red wine that would impress the world's most discerning wine drinkers. Staying true to their word, the pair will not produce wine under the label unless the year been outstanding. The estate's cellar door can be found at celebrated vineyard restaurant, Plume, which offers tastings of any five wines for $7 per person. Alternatively, tastings are free with any bottled purchased. Book your flights to Auckland with Air New Zealand and start planning your next long weekend away. Plus, Vinomofo has released a case of wine featuring six delicious wines representing the diverse and unique sub-regions of Waiheke, Kumeu and Matakana. Every case has a one in 50 chance of winning return flights to Auckland (from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane). T&Cs apply.
One of Sydney's most stunning spots for a picnic is Vaucluse's Parsley Bay. The reserve is specifically set up for picnicking, with tables and plenty of grassy areas to settle into. Plus, there's a 15-minute bushwalk circuit to enjoy pre- or post-picnic, which includes waterfall views. Or trek up to the headland bridge, which offers panoramic views of the bay. During summer, you can take a dip in the harbour to cool off in after the walk, too. Summertime also welcomes Australian water dragons — they can be seen sunning themselves along the water. No doggos are allowed here, so be sure to leave your furry friend at home. [caption id="attachment_754226" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Image: Destination NSW
Fresh off the heels of opening homely Redfern bar and Italian eatery Arms Length last June, Rebecca O'Shea (ex-Rockpool Dining Group) and chef Jeffrey Sue have claimed another corner of two bustling Sydney streets with their new Darlinghurst venue. Situated on the corner of Crown and Stanley Street, Bar Nina follows in Arms Length's footsteps with a menu full of Italian-inspired dishes set alongside a classic cocktail list and craft brews. O'Shea and Sue have enlisted the help of Head Chef Luke Davenport in crafting the Bar Nina menu. Formerly of the two Michelin star English restaurant The Ledbury, Davenport is bringing his expertise to Sydney with a menu full of pasta and plentiful share plates. Diners can select from a range of pasta Davenport hand creates every day — from fettuccine with slow-cooked duck ragu bianco, to a mussel and lardo spaghetti. Groups looking to sample the menu will find plenty to share, including Sydney rock oysters or pork and veal terrine and mostarda served on sourdough. If you venture away from the share plates and pasta, you'll find heartier meals like a vegan caponata paired with king oyster mushroom and pearl barley, or a whole baby snapper. The drinks list centres around an extensive cocktail menu containing tried-and-true classics alongside a few of Bar Nina's own creations. Keeping with the southern European theme, you'll find a Mediterranean G&T made with Cinzano 1757 and Four Pillars olive leaf gin, or the summery electric blue La Nina, featuring two types of rum, orgeat, lime and blue curacao. Cocktails are $17–19, but those that head down between 4–6pm each day can score an affordable selection of happy hour drinks including $7 Pirate Life tap beer, $10 margaritas and $10 Aperol spritzes. The fun doesn't stop at happy hour though, with bottomless brunch on offer every Saturday and Sunday. The boozy brunch can be booked between 11am–3pm on weekends and for $79 comes with two hours of drinks alongside a set selection of highlights from the Bar Nina menu. Truly a jack-of-all-trades, Bar Nina is open from 8am each morning, serving The Little Marionette coffee to CBD workers and early risers looking for their caffeine fix. Pastries are also on offer each morning for commuters to snack on before the full menu becomes available from midday on weekdays and 11am on weekends. Bar Nina is open at 85a Stanley Street, Darlinghurst, 8am-midnight, Monday–Sunday.
Hosting pre-drinks can be a lot of pressure. The playlist has got to be on point and create the right vibe. The snacks need to be that perfect mix between 'line your stomach' and 'small enough to eat with one hand while straightening hair'. And the drinks have to be knockouts because they're kind of like the marker for the night ahead; pick a great drink, you're in for an even greater night. And you can't go past prosecco; The dramatic 'pop' will immediately liven up the crowd, and the versatile Italian bubbly can be enjoyed on its own or heroed in a bunch of tasty cocktails. (And no, not just in a spritz.) To make sure you serve up some real humdingers, we've partnered with the prosecco masters at Dal Zotto Wines and crafted five prosecco cocktail recipes to try before your next night out. Bottoms up, bubble lovers. PASSION PIT Let this be our little secret... This cocktail is like a fancy, adults-only version of Passiona. It tastes just like an Aussie summer (read: pavlova and bubbly). — 70g castor sugar — 70ml lemon juice — 70ml triple sec — pulp from 4 passionfruits — 1 bottle of Dal Zotto prosecco, chilled (serves four to six) Mix together the lemon juice and sugar, dissolving it as best you can. Next add the triple sec and passionfruit pulp. Pour the mixture over a couple of ice-filled glasses, then top up with chilled prosecco. Garnish with passionfruit, mint and pineapple. You'll be feeling higher and higher in no time. EL LOCO Forget frozen margaritas — it's all about sparkling margaritas, amigos. This fizzy twist on the classic will send your mates loco in all the right ways. Cocktail: — 90ml blanco tequila — 90ml triple sec — 120ml chilled simple syrup (recipe below) — 240ml lime juice — 1 bottle of Dal Zotto prosecco, chilled — coarse salt — lime wedges Simple syrup: — 250 ml water — 250 ml castor sugar (serves six to eight) First, you need to make the simple syrup which is, well, super simple to make. Grab a medium saucepan and over medium-high heat stir together the sugar and water until all the granules have dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature and then chill in the fridge. Next, add the tequila, chilled simple syrup, triple sec and lime juice into a cocktail shaker along with a good handful of ice, then give it a good shake. Grab your tumblers — or margarita glasses, if you've got 'em — and run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass before dipping them into a small plate of course salt. Add a handful of ice to each glass and divide the tequila mixture among the glasses. Finally, top with a wedge of lime and a splash of prosecco for that all-important fizz. PRINCESS PEACH Just like everybody's favourite crown-wearing Mario Kart character, this tipple is sweet yet punchy and will always score first place. — 2 ripe peaches, seeded and diced — 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice — 1 teaspoon sugar — 1 bottle of Dal Zotto prosecco, chilled (serves six) Chuck the peaches, lemon juice and sugar into your trusty food processor, and blend until smooth. Pass the mixture through a sieve and get rid of all the chunky peach bits. Place 2 tablespoons of the puree into each champagne glass and top with well-chilled prosecco. Yeah, Peach has got it! LEMON DROP This cocktail is a riff on those zingy, sherbert-filled lollies you probably ate as a kid. And it's got two Italian heavy-hitters, limoncello and prosecco, so you know it's going to be good. — 1 bottle of Dal Zotto prosecco, chilled — 250ml limoncello, chilled — blueberries — thyme — lemon slices (serves four) Pour the prosecco and limoncello into a jug and stir together. Next, press your lemon slices into the bottom of a large highball glass (a hurricane or sling will work equally well), top with ice and fill with the prosecco mixture. For added pizzazz, garnish with thyme and blueberries. PURPLE RAIN Just like Prince, this tipple is kinda strange but, also, utter genius. If it were to change its name to a symbol it would be an exclamation mark, because it's that delicious. Cocktail: — 1/4 cup blackberries — 90ml blackberry syrup (recipe below) — juice from one lime — mint — 120ml light rum — 1 bottle of Dal Zotto prosecco, chilled Blackberry syrup: — 2 tablespoons water — 1 cup blackberries — 1/3 cup granulated sugar (serves two) First, you'll need to whip up the blackberry syrup. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, mash together the sugar, blackberries and water. Once the mixture is thick and the sugar dissolved, pass it through a fine mesh strainer and let it chill. Add the blackberry syrup, blackberries, lime and a handful of mint to a cocktail shaker and muddle well. Next, chuck in the rum and a few ice cubes and shake it like you mean it. Strain the mixture into martini glasses and top with chilled prosecco and fresh blueberries or blackberries. Then, get ready to party like it's 1999. Keen for more fizz? Visit Dal Zotto for a glass of bubbly perfection. And once you're there, share your first Dal Zotto drink experience to Instagram and hashtag #FirstDZ to go in the running to win a year's worth of Dal Zotto prosecco and many more weekly prizes.
Have you ever wondered what happens to beautiful, archaic train stations after the trains that run through them halt for good? Take a look at the some of the most gorgeous abandoned train stations from the around the globe to admire their classic beauty and discover some of the many secrets and stories hidden within their walls. Abkhazia The abandoned railway station in Abkhazia, Russia, is a historical relic of the former Soviet Union. A 185km railway line connected Russia’s North Caucasus Railway with Georgian Railways but was severed in 1992 following the war in Abkhazia. 54km of the railway was repaired in 2008, however, the operation was purely humanitarian and so this stunning structure remains untouched and hauntingly beautiful. Michigan Central Station Depot At the time of its construction in 1913, the Michigan Central Station Depot was the tallest rail station in the world. Located in the Corktown district of Detroit, this now abandoned station survived heavy military use during World War II and was almost closed for good in the '60s after maintenance costs became too high for the decreasing passenger volume. It was reopened in 1975 when Amtrak took over and initiated an enormous renovation program, however, the last train puffed past in 1988. Montzen Gare Montzen-Gare is located on the Eastern borders of Belgium and has become a hotspot for photographers wanting to capture the alluring beauty of its rusting trains, tracks and decaying rooms. The station was built by Russian prisoners of the First World War for the German Army but had to be rebuilt after a heavy bombing in 1944. The station also became available for passenger transport following the war, however it was abandoned for good in 1998. Mapocho Station Now used as an art gallery, the cavernous space of the Mapocho Station in Santiago, Chile was constructed between 1905 and 1912, and was once the heart and soul of Chile’s massive railway network. The grand building had its last train shudder to a stop in 1987, but it was restored to its former charm in the '90s. Today the station serves as the cultural nucleus of the nation with its spacious interior providing the perfect location for exhibitions, performances and many other cultural festivities. Manchester Mayfield Manchester's Mayfield station served as both a passenger and a goods station in its time and, since its demise in 2005, the abandoned space has been been slated for development into a city centre district, a National Express Coach Station or a super campus for civil servants. The space was originally constructed in August 1910 for suburban services and met its tragic end after the roadside building was guttered by a fire. Croix Rouge The unused station of Croix Rouge is an infamous Parisian phantom station, the only one which remains as it was when it was closed. Put into service as a terminus for line 10 in 1923, the station was amongst the non-essential stations closed in 1939 due to the mobilisation of Paris metro employees for the Second World War. The advertisements, seats and even station masters booth can still be seen on the platform. City Hall Subway Stop The City Hall Station in Manhattan was the original southern terminal of the first New York City Subway opened in 1904. The station lies beneath the public area in front of City Hall and was designed to be the showpiece of the new subway. The elegant architecture, coloured glass tiles and brass chandeliers meant that it was considered to be one of the most beautiful subway stations in the system. The passenger service came to a close in 1945. Buffalo Central Terminal A station designed to accommodate up to 3,200 passengers per hour (or 200 trains per day) is sure to be an impressive and eye-catching structure. And the Buffalo Central Terminal certainly doesn’t disappoint. The complex consists of a 17 storey office tower, four storey baggage building, a two storey mail building and the main concourse. It was opened to the public in 1929 and the terminal closed in 1979. Now in the hands of the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation, a huge campaign is being undertaken to preserve and restore the terminal to its former glory. Anhalter Bahnhof The oldest of the abandoned stations in the list is the Anhalter Bahnhof station in Berlin, born in 1841. Starting from humble beginnings, the station developed to become one of Berlin’s biggest and finest, with its trains departing to Prague and Vienna. The station is not without its history as the it was involved in the deportation of about a third of the city’s Jewish population between 1941 and 1945. [Via Flavorwire]
Whether you grew up collecting bricks or you're just in it for the nostalgia, there's no denying the icon status of LEGO®. Add Star Wars into the mix, and you've got one of the most wholesome and exciting pop culture events on the calendar for all ages. Landing at Melbourne Museum from (fittingly) May 4, LEGO® Star Wars: The Exhibition features a huge collection of life-sized models and is a must-see for anyone who still gets excited by lightsabers, stormtroopers and playing with LEGO®. But the exhibition is just the beginning. If you're heading to Melbourne for it, the fun continues once you leave. Just a few light years (minutes) away, there are after-hours museum visits, wild ice cream flavours and cult-status sandwiches. Below, we map out your cheat sheet for the ultimate night out. Grab a Legendary Meatball Sub from Roccos Start your post-exhibition feast by crossing the road and wandering down Gertrude Street to Rocco's Bologna Discoteca. This spot has reached cult status for its meatball sub, a saucy, cheesy, handheld, messy, and glorious masterpiece. It's open until 11pm on weekends, so settle in, pair your sub with a negroni, and you've got one of the most satisfying meals around. [caption id="attachment_1001344" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Rebecca Newman[/caption] Hang with the Locals at Marion Wine Bar Further along Gertrude Street, Marion Wine Bar is the perfect place to pause and watch the world go by. The treasured neighbourhood wine bar takes inspiration from across the world, while maintaining a distinct Melbourne vibe. Known for its seasonal menu and extensive wine list, stop in for a glass and a few small plates to debrief after a day of LEGO® Star Wars overload. Feast at Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks Over in Collingwood, Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks is slinging gooey, over-the-top sandwiches that feel like they belong in a Star Wars cantina. There are no small bites here. This is where you come when you're hungry for a feed. It's open late, walk-ins only, and exactly the no-fuss vibe you need to keep the night rolling. Visit the Museum After Dark While the LEGO® Star Wars exhibition might unleash your inner kid, Nocturnal is strictly adults-only. Once a month, this is your chance to explore the Melbourne Museum exhibits after-dark and child free. Whether you're wandering dinosaur skeletons or enjoying the music, food and drinks on offer until 9pm, it's the ultimate nightcap to a day spent exploring the city. Try a Wild Scoop at Fluffy Torpedo If dessert is non-negotiable, Fluffy Torpedo in Carlton is serving up wacky ice cream flavours like Buttered Baguette, Popcorn, Maltesers and Pretzels, Pork Butter and Chilli Oil, and other creations that are sure to be remembered. Go late, try something wild, and remember – you'll never regret trying something once. [caption id="attachment_1001352" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Josie Withers[/caption] Browse Books at Readings Carlton Before calling it a night, wander over to Readings Carlton, a Melbourne institution that stays open until 9pm most nights. Inside, you'll find stacks upon stacks of graphic novels, art books, classics, and all the latest fiction you'd expect from one of the city's largest bookstores. Whether you're here for the LEGO® Star Wars exhibition or just to soak up the Melbourne vibe, go all in and make a weekend out of it. Head to visitmelbourne.com.au to discover more of what makes Melbourne every bit different. Images courtesy of Melbourne. Every bit different. By Jacque Kennedy
Not content with launching a Ritz-Carlton on the Gold Coast in 2026, the Marriott International hotel chain is bringing another of its luxe accommodation labels to the Glitter Strip: St Regis, which'll open its first-ever Australian outpost in Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise. Holidaymakers will need to wait until 2027 to soak in the brand's lavish surroundings; however, there'll be plenty to enjoy, all as part of the under-development $1.7-billion La Pélago resort and precinct. La Pélago won't be small, sprawling over 12,000 square metres, and including 5500-plus square metres of dining and drinking options, as well as shops. St Regis Gold Coast Resort won't be modest itself, featuring 185 guest rooms and suites, each with either ocean or hinterland views. Also set to feature at the new St Regis: a sky bar, pool bar and lounge, a specialty restaurant, the chain's signature St Regis Bar and a spa, turning every stay into an excuse to kick back with a drink — while looking at stunning vistas, over a splash, with a meal or before chasing your bliss. Sporting the brand's usual focus on glamour — complete with its bespoke butler service — the Gold Coast's St Regis resort will take over one of La Pélago's towers, and comes in collaboration with property development company Gurner and investment house Wingate. It's set to be the first tower to open, in fact, and joins a list of 55-plus fellow St Regis hotels and resorts worldwide since the chain's first site opened in New York in 1904. You might've heard of its Big Apple venue, and the St Regis New York King Cole Bar, thanks to a well-known tipple. It was the supposed birthplace of the bloody mary back in 1934, with the hotel brand unsurprising touting the spicy cocktail as its signature sip since then. Do genuinely expect to feel on top of the world at the St Regis Gold Coast; as part of the La Pélago design plans, all of the hotel's rooms and amenities, including the bar and restaurant, will sit above the rest of the towers in the precinct. The St Regis building itself will be 50-percent taller than any other surrounding tower, in fact. That means arriving at the porte cochère entrance, then making your way up to the second — and main — hotel lobby on level 42. "This signing for the St Regis brand in Australia is momentous for Marriott International, and a wonderful advancement for the Gold Coast. The St Regis name promises a vanguard spirit steeped in history and tradition, and is synonymous with global luxury," said Richard Crawford, Vice President Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific for Marriott International, announcing the news. "The St Regis Hotel brand redefined luxury when it first opened its doors in New York over 100 years ago and as such we are incredibly selective when choosing the right locations and developments to launch new St Regis Hotel sites, that are befitting of the strict requirements and expectations of the brand," Crawford continued. St Regis was initially due to make its Aussie debut in Melbourne, as announced back in 2018; however, that plan hasn't come to fruition. When the chain's Gold Coast hotel opens, it's expected to be Marriott International's fourth site in the Queensland city thanks to the existing JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, and theSheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast, plus the aforementioned Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast. Start dreaming about those swanky 2027 vacations now. The St Regis Gold Coast Resort will open at the new La Pélago precinct, 112 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise sometime in 2027 — we'll update you with further details when they're announced. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
After nearly a decade, Stranger Things is sadly coming to an end. Stranger Things Season 5 will be released on Netflix across three premiere dates, with Volume 1 dropping on Thursday, November 27 (four episodes), Volume 2 dropping on Boxing Day (three episodes), and The Finale streaming on New Year's Day. Each volume is released at midday AEDT. It's no secret that the final series has been a few years in the making. Season 4 premiered in May of 2022, meaning we've waited over three years to find out if the Stranger Things kids can defeat Vecna once and for all. The thrilling sci-fi drama is set in the fictional American town of Hawkins, Indiana. While the group of teenagers battle monsters and travels to alternate dimensions, the 1980s nostalgia of Hawkins (and the show) is hard to miss. To help you ease back into the vintage and sometimes spooky spirit of Stranger Things, we've created a 1980s travel guide. From American diners to regional towns, here are some real-world Aussie places that look straight out of Hawkins. Walhalla, Victoria While Australia's environment and landscapes differ from those of the United States' Midwest region, there are a handful of regional towns that capture the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins. Founded as a gold-mining community in the 1800s, the Victorian town of Walhalla is now home to just 20 permanent residents. Despite its small size, Walhalla is a tourist hotspot, attracting people who want to learn more about Australia's gold mining past. Located 180 kilometres north of Melbourne, Walhalla (which was once one of Australia's richest towns) has reconstructed a number of its heritage buildings — resulting in a tourist town that makes you feel like you've stepped through a time machine. Book a stay at Walhalla's Star Hotel, cycle through the town a lá Stranger Things kids on a bike tour, or, if you fancy something spookier, join the Walhalla Ghost Tour. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Architecture Uprising Australia (@arch_aus) [caption id="attachment_898563" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Valentina's Diner[/caption] Valentina's Diner, Sydney Nothing screams Midwestern town like a plate of diner pancakes. Located in Marrickville, Sydney, Valentina's Diner offers pastel booths (perfect for planning some monster-fighting), as well as an All-American classic menu. From black diner coffee to breakfast sandwiches and American-style cheeseburgers and fries, you'll feel ready to binge-watch the new episodes after your visit. [caption id="attachment_780688" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Evie's Disco Diner[/caption] Evie's Disco Diner, Melbourne Inspired by 1980s New York City, Evie's Disco Diner is your taste of nostalgia pre-Stranger Things watch party. Situated in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Evie's Disco Diner serves American diner dishes (including a number of vegan-friendly options) in a discotheque bar and feels plucked straight from the streets of Hawkins. With a colourful dance floor, bottomless brunch, and drag bingo galore, Evie's Disco Diner is Melbourne's destination for 1980s fun. Book a table with friends to dance to some throwback tracks ("Running Up That Hill", anybody?) before your watch party. [caption id="attachment_902834" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Leonard's House of Love[/caption] Leonard's House of Love, Melbourne Step through the doors of Leonard's House of Love, and you'll find yourself in a dive bar where you could easily spot Hopper sinking a beer post-Demagorgon chase. The South Yarra haunt has a retro feel that's reminiscent of the eighties aesthetics. From wood-panelled walls to neon-lit signs and shag-carpet cosiness, Leonard's House of Love is a time-warp American-inspired dive bar that's perfect for getting into the Stranger Things spirit. [caption id="attachment_1047764" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Mount Victoria via Wirestock[/caption] Mount Victoria, NSW Hawkins may not have mountains, but it does have eerie trails and forests full of secrets. This atmosphere can also be found in the New South Wales village of Mount Victoria. Located in the Blue Mountains, Mount Victoria has a rich history (not dissimilar to Hawkins). While there's no experimental science lab or Upside Down world, there are scenic trail walks and even a vintage independent cinema for some nostalgia. If you're a history buff, be sure to book a trip to Mount Victoria Museum to learn more about local history and maybe even find some town secrets out for yourself. [caption id="attachment_858552" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Stranger Things courtesy of Netflix © 2022[/caption] Fortress, Melbourne and Sydney One central theme of Stranger Things is the board game, Dungeons and Dragons. The closest Australia has to a Hawkins Hellfire Club headquarters is the gaming bar, Fortress. The community hubs feature weekly Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups with a three-hour guided D&D adventure and even a dedicated Dungeon Master. You can join as a group or solo member and play the game that gave Vecna his namesake. [caption id="attachment_1049117" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Yackandandah[/caption] Yackandandah, Victoria With its picture-perfect shopfronts and sleepy-town charm, Yackandandah in Victoria feels like the show's early seasons (you know, before the Upside Down leaked into the real world). The North East Victorian town is surrounded by trees and a high street that feels like the last century (in a quaint way, of course). It's easy to imagine Eleven and co pedalling past the old petrol pumps or heading to the vintage stores for some arcade-perfect outfits. You don't need a portal to the Upside Down to feel like you've stepped into the Stranger Things universe, so make a reservation and book a long weekend trip away before (or while) you binge Stranger Things Season 5. Stream Stranger Things Season 5 only on Netflix from Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 12:00pm AEDT. Lead image credit: Stranger Things Season 5 Netflix
Dimmies & Tinnies are on the move this month, having embarked on an East Coast adventure to spread the gospel about its new lineup of reimagined dim sims. The first stop is Redfern's Norfolk Hotel, which will play host to a one-day activation teeming with good food, cold beers and easygoing fun. Held from 12pm on Saturday, July 19, the whole crew is invited to dine on this iconic Chinese-inspired treat. Priced at $3, the dimmies are available in two flavours: spicy pork with red chilli and cabbage, and chicken and sweetcorn, featuring a hit of kombu. The tinnies form the other part of the equation, with $7 Reschs Pilsener cans pairing with the moreish staple to forge the ultimate afternoon snack combo. Perhaps it's time to load up the freezer, as these nostalgic bites are perfect for a quick cook-up, whether you prefer them fried or steamed. Not familiar with Dimmies & Tinnies? Expect to see the brand more and more. Radio and TV favourite Andy Lee, NYC-based hospitality duo Eddy Buckingham and Chef Paul Donnelly, and celebrated ceramicist Sam Gordon are the brains behind the biz, having spent the last four years perfecting their dream torpedo-style dimmie.
It's 1929. You find yourself at a party at Pokeingham Hall in a village in the Cotswolds, one of the UK's most beautiful spots. You're there to celebrate the life of the late heiress Rose Stimper. But it's not just any celebration. In her will, Stimper left a whole lot of money to the village — and asked the villagers to decide how to spend it. You and everyone else has plenty of ideas. You're busy discussing them, when, all of a sudden, something goes terribly wrong... Welcome to Murder at the Manor: an interactive dinner hosted by Cluedunnit, one of the world's longest-running murder mystery companies, at Stamford Plaza Hotel, Sydney Airport. For three hours on Saturday, June 28, you'll dine on a three-course feast, while trying to figure who did the dirty deed. Actors who look like they're straight out of the 1920s will roam the room, telling the story and dropping clues. On the menu is a caramelised onion puff tart with goats' cheese, kalamata olive crumb, herb salad and fig vinocotto, followed by braised beef cheeks with soft polenta. Come dessert, you'll be tucking into chocolate cake with caramelised popcorn, mascarpone and wattle seed. Just make sure you get out of there alive.
UPDATE: January 12, 2021 — The Rocks Picnic has been postponed until further notice. We'll be sure to keep you updated with further information and dates. With the weather looking up, the sun setting later and vibrancy returning to the city, there's never been a better time to plan a full day out in The Rocks, especially on a Sunday. The historic precinct is well known for its sandstone terraces and bustling markets, but there's so much more to do in this slice of old (and new) Sydney when you know where to look. We've partnered with The Rocks to help you plan a bumper day out in the area, packed with art, music, good food and excellent views. [caption id="attachment_790083" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] 9.30AM – STRETCH IT OUT IN THE PARK Kick off the day with a salute to the sun or two at one of the free Yoga in the Park sessions. Every Sunday, you can move through an energising-yet-relaxing stretch and flow class, all with views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. You'll need to BYO mat and book ahead to secure your spot. As a bonus, each free class includes a voucher for a free coffee from one of the nearby cafes. 10.30AM – GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX After your stretch session, we recommend hitting up one of The Rocks' best laneway cafes. The Fine Food Store has been tapping out beautiful brews and hearty brekkies since 2004 and, if you're dining in, you can take advantage of its bottomless batch filter for $8.50. Or, head to ASLAN Coffee Roasters, which offers up its own St Peters-roasted beans, including single origin and on-tap nitro coffee. 11AM – STOCK UP ON PICNIC ITEMS It's now time to hunt down everything you need for an easy-going Sunday arvo picnic. Brooklyn Boy Bagels has a market stall in The Rocks every Sunday, so make a beeline for its boiled bagels and try not to eat them all before lunch. Keep an eye out for the tasty cured meats by Backa Sydney, also at the markets, as well as fresh organic pickles from Rita's Farm. More of a sweet tooth? Make sure you check out the new store from Tokyo Lamington, where the classic Aussie sponge cake gets an upgrade in flavours like thai milk tea, yuzu meringue and black sesame. [caption id="attachment_790085" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] MIDDAY – HEAD TO THE PARK Now you've stocked up on snacks, it's time to take a seat in First Fleet Park, where you'll find live music every Sunday afternoon. Local musicians serenade park-goers with acoustic sounds, and there are park games, too, like an oversized snakes and ladder game, so you can channel your inner kid and challenge your friends to a battle while enjoying the ambient tunes. [caption id="attachment_785523" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of 'Lindy Lee: Moon in a Dew Drop' by Anna Kucera[/caption] 2PM – DIVE INTO THE MCA Now you're fed and feeling good, take in some culture. The Museum of Contemporary Art's three current exhibitions offer respite from the city and insights to the exhibiting artists' unique practices. Lindy Lee: Moon in a Dew Drop is a major survey of the Australian Chinese artist's career and it's free to check out. Anywhere but here: MCA Primavera Acquisitions draws on the gallery's collection of works by young Australian artists who've previously participated the annual exhibition Primavera, while Connections is a snapshot of First Nations art centred around the ways we interpret and interact with the world and each other. [caption id="attachment_786806" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] 3PM – GET SOME RETAIL THERAPY It goes without saying that The Rocks Markets should be your first port of call. The long-running markets brings together unique makers, craftsman, artists and collectors showcasing their goods from 10am–5pm every Saturday and Sunday. Afterwards, browse the standalone boutiques, such as Aesop for beautifully made skincare products and the Eloise Panetta pop-up for botanically dyed garments and accessories. [caption id="attachment_761767" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] 4PM – HEAD TO THIS ROOFTOP The Glenmore is a favourite with locals and visitors alike for its top-notch views of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House. As there are almost no tourists in town, you'll have an even better chance of snaring a prime rooftop position for some afternoon brews. There's plenty of local and craft beers on tap, and a full menu of pub classics like chicken parmigiana and beer battered fish and chips. [caption id="attachment_660843" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] 6PM – FINISH WITH A COCKTAIL Cap off the day with a cocktail at Doss House. The cocktail bar is one of 19 bars and restaurants participating in The Rocks' new al fresco dining pilot, which allows venues to sprawl out into the streets, activating laneways and allowing punters plenty of room to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat (or both). The Doss House's extended outdoor area makes the most of Unwins Courtyard. Here, you can enjoy charcuterie platters complete with smoked wallaby, Bay of Fires cheddar, local honey and the wild boar salami, alongside an old-fashioned or a glass on wine, all amongst the historic sandstone buildings. The Rocks Picnic runs from 10am–3pm every Sunday over summer. Find more details, here. Top image: Anna Kucera
Bring your family, your mates and your dogs — along with your sandy feet — to the newly reopened harbourside sports club Mosman Rowers. Now managed by Bird & Bear Group (The Sandy Bear, The Flying Bear & Foys), the century-old clubhouse boasts a brand new fit-out and an elevated pub offering across three levels. First up is Archie Bear cafe, a 100 seater slinging coffees, breakfast and long lunches, plus dinner on the weekends. Designed by Studio Etic (Barangaroo House), it has floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook an expansive outdoor deck and the bay views beyond. Inside, there are polished timber floors, brass and gold finishes and a fireplace for the cooler months ahead. Brekkie includes classic bacon and egg rolls alongside green breakfast bowls and maple granola with stewed rhubarb and mint. Meanwhile, the lunch and dinner menus focus on share plates like Sydney rock oysters, baby squid with lemon and aioli and antipasti plates — think prosciutto, burrata, olives and flatbread. There's also a selection of salads and sandwiches, such as the soba noodle salad with poached chicken and soy-lime dressing, and the wagyu pastrami reuben with raclette, sweet and spicy pickles, coleslaw and smoky sauce. One level up is The Rowers Bar, which offers its own bar snacks and mains, as well as another 100 seats. For bar bites, there are wagyu sliders and rice paper rolls with daikon and water chestnuts. Larger dishes include the zucchini pasta with lemon, chilli and basil and grilled barramundi with butter bean puree and bean salad. Compared with the bright digs downstairs, the heritage interior upstairs boasts low-lighting, warm timber tones and nautical vibes. Expect more brass trimming here, too, alongside terrazzo table tops, navy leather banquettes and a marble bar with 11 beers on tap. The wider drinks list will be up for grabs in both venues, including R!ot Wine Co. rosé on tap, seasonal cocktails — try the spicy margarita or melon fizz — and an extensive local and global wine list. Plus Pimm's, spritzes and white sangria jugs for sharing. There'll be heaps of weekly specials on too, including $6 beers and house wines during weekday happy hour, $12 spritzes from 3–6pm on Saturdays and $20 beer buckets and cocktail jugs on Sundays. While the venue will remain a registered club — with a private members space on the top level — non-members can access the lower two levels by signing up (free of charge) as a temporary member. The waterside digs will remain a community hub for activities such as rowing, paddling and kayaking, with a reinvigorated member events calendar in the works. Archie Bear is open Monday through Wednesday from 7.30am–3.30pm and Thursday through Sunday from 7.30am until late. Opening hours for The Rowers Bar is open Monday through Friday from 4pm until late and Saturday through Sunday from noon until late.
It's bloody hard to get anywhere from Australia, so we Aussies tend to take our holidays seriously. A new survey from travel consultancy Forward Travel has analysed data from the Department of Home Affairs' Overseas Arrivals and Departures to reveal where Australians have been travelling since 2021. The report ranks global destinations, clearly outlining the winners and losers in attracting Australian tourists. Unsurprisingly, the top spots remained consistent. As expected, Indonesia continues to dominate Australian travel trends. With Bali's beautiful landscapes, proximity, and affordability, Indonesia remains one of the top travel destinations for Australians. Likewise, New Zealand maintains its strong standing due to family ties and its proximity to Australia, it would be shocking to see it fall from favour. Singapore also features prominently, serving as both a central transit hub and a destination in its own right. The USA, UAE, Thailand, and Fiji remain solid contenders. These destinations have remained relatively stable in rankings, serving as "comfort corridors" for Australians, places we trust and return to, even as other destinations gain popularity. Surging up the rankings, Japan, Vietnam, and India have emerged as some of the most-travelled destinations since 2021. Driven by culture, food, ski tourism, safety, and a favourable exchange rate, Japan has experienced the most dramatic rise, jumping from 20th in 2021–22 to fourth in 2024–25, attracting over one million Australian visitors. Vietnam has also seen remarkable growth, positioning itself as an affordable alternative to Thailand. From roughly 6,000 Australian visitors in 2021–22, the number skyrocketed to over 200,000 in 2024–25. Although Malaysia briefly overtook Vietnam in 2022–24, Vietnam reclaimed its lead by 2024–25, reflecting a developing rivalry between the two destinations. India represents the most unpredictable trajectory, dipping in and out of the top 20 before returning in 2024–25. As traveller confidence increased, many Australians chose India for its profound cultural immersion and transformative travel experiences. Australians continue to favour destinations that are familiar, affordable, and easily accessible, while rewarding countries that actively invest in tourism marketing and infrastructure. At the bottom of the rankings are countries such as Samoa, Syria, Guinea, Montenegro, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe. Political instability, limited flight connectivity, and inadequate tourism promotion pushed these countries to the bottom of the rankings. However, Uruguay and Zimbabwe have shown some improvement in recent years, climbing out of the lowest tier, suggesting signs of stabilisation. Countries that once held mid-tier positions but have since fallen into obscurity include Mexico and Peru, likely due to increased competition and a decline in their appeal to Australian travellers. Other countries such as Oman, Dominica, and Malawi have remained consistently in the lower tiers, showing minimal movement. Oman's ranking has fluctuated, particularly appearing in the bottom tier in 2021–22, disappearing entirely, then re-emerging in 2024–25. Across regions, African nations struggle due to a lack of direct flights, higher travel costs, and political instability. Latin America and the Caribbean face the challenge of long travel times and distance. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific's lesser-known destinations and parts of Central Asia have yet to capitalise on their transit potential and translate it into tourism demand. As a result, these regions remain anchored toward the bottom of the rankings. Now that we've entered spring, it's not too early to start planning for the travel trends of 2026. So the question is: where will you be headed next? Ready for your next getaway? Dive into Forward Travel's expert report and see which destinations are topping travellers' lists. Images: Suratman Alimuddin, RuslanKaln, Drazen Zigic, Mikolajn, Igor Kovalev, Wiley Wilkins
Recreating a neighbourhood stalwart in a suburb with no real community heart is a tough task. The flurry of suits that blow in and out at lunch time, the tourists tracking back from Circular Quay hungry for an arvo snack, and the Friday after-work cheese and wine crowds all are a far cry from the loyal locals you see at Newtown's Continental Deli. But, even so, the boys behind the neighbourhood deli-cum-bar — Head Chef Jesse Warkentin, General Manager Mikey Nicolian and Porteno's Joe Valore and Elvis Abrahanowicz — have managed to successfully transplant a bit of their neighbourhood charm to Continental's new Phillip Street location in the CBD. "Since we opened Newtown, we've continued to hear that the only problem is that there isn't one in every neighbourhood," says Nicolian. "So, we wanted to bring it to as many people as we could." Menu-wise, much remains the same. You'll still find artisanal cheeses, an outrageous list of charcuteries, the steak tartare with Parmigiano-Reggiano and some sandwiches at lunch. And although pasta dishes such as the rigatoni with broccolini, cuttlefish and sausage have been added, it's not the main focus. "Having pasta is not that big a difference," insists Nicolian. "It's something that we love and it fits our identity but we're definitely not a pasta joint." And of course, Continential Deli CBD is a champion of conservas, particularly seafood. Offering everything from anchovies to canned clams and Continental's own tinned Fremantle occy. "It's a pretty cool world to explore once you get into them," says Nicolian. "It can be as approachable as you like, with sardines for example or you can go as extravagant as you like with something like baby eel at $87. It's not cat food." The drinks are a little daintier (although Continental's still play on classics) with elegant glassware to match. Canned cocktails such as the famed Mar-tinny, Can-hattan and Cosmopoli-tin are still very much available with a new one in the works, the Ameri-can-o. Plus, the wine list's six times the size. The fit-out, designed by co-owner Sarah Doyle, has a refined Euro bistro touch with the New York accents of Art Deco posters and dark wood and leather chairs. Round tables fill the restaurant section by the open deli and kitchen with a 16-seat marble top bar on the other side of what Nicolian calls "the wall of wine." Sure, the one-level, open-plan space is different to Newtown's split-level terrace, but it echoes the same familial sentiment. "It's a different environment [to Newtown] but the backbone of the place is still very closely linked," notes Nicolian. "It's a homely environment. You want people to feel at home." Continental Deli is open at 167 Phillip Street, Sydney from noon till midnight Monday to Friday, and 6pm till midnight on Saturday. Images: Kitti Smallbone.
Booking in for a fresh cut is usually a practical decision. Things are looking a bit shaggy and you can't remember the last time your mop was treated to a good rinse. But one look at the Strand Arcade's NOAH Barber will change all that. The barbershop is kitted out with retro chairs, nostalgic bottles and waxes galore, blending modern trends with old-fashioned charm. Stop by for a hot towel shave, beard trim or go all out with The Full Service experience. Once you've sharpened your look, peruse the shelves of gels, fragrances and tonics — a selection from around the world with quality, minimalism and sustainability the focus — to walk away with a swag of goodies to keep your cut looking its best. Images: Rodrigo Vargas.
