Let's face it: life is busy and you don't get time to squeeze in nearly as much gallery-hopping as you'd like. Well, now, local commuters can get their art fix on the daily, thanks to a new initiative transforming public restrooms into vibrant gallery spaces. Outdoor media company Smartbox has set its sights on restrooms across the Sydney Trains network for its just-launched digital art exhibition series, Reframed. In an effort to help break Sydneysiders out of their existing art bubbles, the new-look bathrooms will sport striking works by emerging artists on digital screens, with a different talent showcased each year. First up, you'll spy designs from Brisbane-based photographer and stylist Evelina Fietisova. Her works, commissioned especially for Reframed, set out to challenge long-held notions of femininity, masculinity and beauty, shot like a series of glossy magazine snaps. "In my work I love experimenting with fashion and try to push the boundaries of what's considered 'normal' in society," Fietisova said in a statement. "In a world that profits from your insecurities, liking, accepting and being proud of yourself is a rebellious act." [caption id="attachment_714877" align="alignnone" width="1920"] One of the pieces of art being displayed in the train station toilets.[/caption] Now live, the Reframed exhibition is gracing around 200 digital screens across Sydney train stations. You'll find them at Blacktown, Bondi, Burwood, Central, Chatswood, Edgecliff, Gordon, Hornsby, Hurstville, Kogarah, Liverpool, Miranda, Penrith, St Leonards, Strathfield, Redfern, Parramatta, Martin Place and Epping. For more information about Smartbox and Reframed, head to smartbox.com.au. First image: Quinn Connors.
Gin & Jazz is back at The Apollo for another year. Every session brings you four hours of live, laidback grooves, which you can match with a $95 banquet – or all your favourite dishes. If you go for the former, you'll start with Beverage Director Matt Whiley's pink martini — a sweet yet herby mix of Four Pillars gin, Oscar vermouth, salted strawberry and bay leaf. Then, it'll be straight into the banquet, which consists of nine of The Apollo's classic dishes. Start with olives and pickles, grilled pita, tzatziki and bonito crudo with tomato tartare, before moving onto saganaki cheese with honey oregano, alongside a village salad. The main is oven-baked lamb shoulder alongside roasted potatoes, while watermelon and ouzo makes for a refreshing dessert. As for the jazz, it's happening on the last Sunday of every month between May to September, from 12–4pm. Catch guitarist Arthur Washington and his band on Sunday, June 29 and Sunday, August 31, and the Soundcliff Jazz Trio on Sunday, July 27 and Sunday, September 28.
What's more ludicrous in Venom: Let There Be Carnage: an alien invasion of one man's body that turns into a parasite-host odd-couple show, or a prologue that thinks Woody Harrelson could've been a 90s teen? Kudos to this sequel to 2018's Venom for starting how it means to go on, at least. With its opening, set in 1996 in a home for unwanted children, the film doubles down on silliness, overblown theatrics and packaging itself as a cartoonish lark. The goofiness of the original box-office hit was among its best traits, and worked because that ridiculousness rattled against the movie's gritty superhero setup. Venom adopted all the stylistic markers that've become the serious-minded caped-crusader formula, then let Tom Hardy bounce around like he was in a comedy. But this time, everyone's gone more than a little vaudeville, as has the movie — and the outcome is right there in the title. Carnage isn't just an apt term to describe the film, which has actor-turned-director Andy Serkis (Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle) behind the lens; it's also the name of its second symbiote, aka a flesh-munching extra-terrestrial who inhabits a bag of bones, then brings out its basest urges. Mercifully, Let There Be Carnage isn't big on rehashing the mechanics established in the initial flick, but Venom fits the bill, too, after the creature took up residence inside San Francisco journalist Eddie Brock (Hardy, Capone), then unleashed the franchise's one-body, two-personality double act. Carnage, the red-hued parasite, is the spawn of Venom, albeit bursting forth from condemned serial killer Cletus Kasady (Harrelson, Zombieland: Double Tap) after a scuffle with Brock. And yes, this is the kind of feature that has the scenery-chewing Harrelson proclaim its subtitle with glee. He bellows "let there be carnage!" with winking jokiness, but resembles a ringmaster announcing the next act in a big top. Scripted by returning scribe Kelly Marcel, who also mined Fifty Shades of Grey for all the humour she could — and using a story co-credited to Hardy, who clearly has an attachment to his Marvel-but-not-Marvel Cinematic Universe character — Let There Be Carnage isn't burdened with much plot. After getting murderous following his separation from girlfriend Frances Barrison (Naomie Harris, No Time to Die) in their youth, Kasady will only tell his tale to Brock before he's executed. The latter goes awry due to Carnage's arrival, and a deal. The new symbiote will reunite Kasady with Barrison, whose ability to manipulate sound has seen her locked in an asylum, if the sadistic criminal assists his havoc-wreaking passenger to dispense with Brock and Venom. Cue the obvious — yes, carnage — and an inevitable showdown. Harrelson wasn't an adolescent in the 90s, but his performance nods to that decade, back when his resume spanned White Men Can't Jump, Natural Born Killers, The People vs Larry Flynt, EDtv and the like. That isn't a compliment; he's simply summoning-slash-parodying that heyday, and he's in a film that wishes it released then. Indeed, Let There Be Carnage could've been the hit of 1993, 1999 or any other year before Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy reshaped the genre, the MCU turned it into one of the predominant forms of big-screen entertainment (and now small screen, too), and superhero flicks began arriving every few weeks. Really, Harrelson's work here feels like a chaotic distraction rather than a throwback nudge, because there's only one great thing about Let There Be Carnage: Tom Hardy arguing with himself. One of everyone's favourite friendly neighbourhood web-slinger's antagonists on the page, Venom might've first hit cinemas in the misfire that was Spider-Man 3, but the strongest aspect of his recent films is that self-banter. Plenty can be read into the back-and-forth, all voiced with gusto by Hardy: Venom is the literal growling voice inside Brock's head; a fight with conflicting impulses; the side of our identities we aren't comfortable revealing; and, here, the friend we need to be to ourselves in the name of self-care. In fact, Let There Be Carnage is a bromance as Brock and Venom try to live in harmony. That their disputes mimic domestic feuds isn't accidental. That said, endeavouring to layer in queer subtext — including comments about Venom coming out of Eddie's closet — falls flat. So do mentions of stopping cruelty to aliens, with the film merely paying lip service to deeper ideas, rather than even pretending to give them substance. There's always more CGI mayhem to come, after all, and more Brock-symbiote fights about eating chickens and chocolate instead of brains. Hardy makes all that bickering the most entertaining element of the film, though, almost purely through his sheer physical — and vocal —commitment. In 2013's Locke, he proved he could make talking the most riveting thing in the world, a notion the Venom franchise happily attempts to steal. Hardy is having the same great time he did in the initial flick, and trying to have even more. But, while often amusing to watch, it isn't infectious. Let There Be Carnage is nowhere near as fun as witnessing Hardy quarrel with himself should be, and gets routine and repetitive fast. Understandably, that doesn't bode well for the film's other performances; hopefully Michelle Williams (After the Wedding) was paid handsomely to reprise her thankless role as Brock's ex-fiancée Anne Weying, and the similarly underused Harris as Barrison/Shriek as well. It's knowingly absurd, boasts a self-aware lead and moves quickly — when the climax hits, it feels like everything before it breezed by — but Let There Be Carnage remains a slog. Most of its gags land with a thud, and Serkis mistakes pace for personality while going for a monotonous same-is-same approach that largely takes Venom's successes, spreads them over the entire movie, dials up the anarchic vibe and uses messiness as a visual template. Although it falls within Sony's Spider-Man Universe, which differs to the MCU but also includes the same version of the web-slinger, this symbiote sequel has pilfered one of Marvel's worst tendencies, too. Spider-Man: No Way Home reaches cinemas in weeks, the Jared Leto-starring Morbius follows the next month and, as the obligatory post-credits sting teases, Let There Be Carnage mainly exists to keep stitching this on-screen universe together and lay foundations for more to come in yet another sprawling comic book-inspired movie realm. Try as he visibly and energetically does, Hardy shouting at himself can't fix that either.
If you've been plotting any food-and-drink-related Victorian adventures of late, you probably already have the newly revamped Continental Sorrento and its suite of new must-visit venues on your radar. But now, you've got a fresh excuse to book that visit, with the coastal precinct's luxury 108-room InterContinental Hotel opening this week. The latest Aussie offering for IHG Hotels & Resorts, the new seaside hotel occupies both a reimagined section of the existing 147-year-old limestone building and a separate newly-built wing. A collection of penthouses is also to come, to be unveiled later this year. Steered by renowned firm Woods Baggot (W Melbourne, Barlow), sophisticated interiors mirror this old-meets-new energy, with plenty of modernised nods to the art deco and Victorian elements the site's rocked in eras past. There's a refined Mediterranean edge to the aesthetic, with sweeping bay vistas and, in each of the premium options, a complimentary in-room bar heroing local craft brews, vino and spirits. Of course, facilities here lean to the fancy, including the blissful cabana-ringed guest-only pool deck, with palms, water views and a look that's plucked straight from your dream Euro beach holiday. Guests also have the Continental Sorrento's full suite of offerings on their doorstep, from the public bar, to fine diner Audrey's upstairs. Gracing the walls throughout the hotel, expect to see a standout art collection, further fusing the past and the present with a broad-ranging curation of works by Aussie artists. Keep an eye out for the reimagined snaps from vintage Mornington Peninsula beach parties, capturing those cool coastal charms through the decades. There's more luxury to come, too, with the site's Aurora Spa & Bathhouse slated to launch later this year, featuring a thermal bathhouse and wellness centre. Find the InterContinental Sorrento at 23 Constitution Hill Road, Sorrento. Rooms start from $595 per night. You can learn more and book a stay over on the website.
They're globe-hopping, ass-kicking, world-saving spies, but women: that's it, that's The 355. When those formidable ladies are played by a dream international cast of Jessica Chastain (Scenes From a Marriage), Lupita Nyong'o (Us), Penélope Cruz (Pain and Glory), Diane Kruger (In the Fade) and Fan Bingbing (I Am Not Madame Bovary), the tickets should sell themselves — and Chastain, who suggested the concept and produces, wasn't wrong for hoping that. Giving espionage moves the female-fronted spin that Bond and Mission: Impossible never have isn't just this action-thriller's quest alone, of course, and nothing has done so better than Atomic Blonde recently, but there's always room for more. What The 355 offers is an average affair, though, rather than a game-changer, even if it so evidently wants to do for its genre what Widows did for heist flicks. The film still starts with men, too, causing all the globe's problems — aka threatening to end life as we know it via a gadget that can let anyone hack anything online. One nefarious and bland mercenary (Jason Flemyng, Boiling Point) wants it, but the CIA's gung-ho Mason 'Mace' Browne (Chastain) and her partner Nick Fowler (Sebastian Stan, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier) head to Paris to get it from Colombian intelligence officer Luis Rojas (Édgar Ramírez, Jungle Cruise), who's gone rogue and is happy to sell; however, German operative Marie Schmidt (Kruger) is also on its trail. The French connection goes wrong, the two women get in each other's ways, but it's apparent — begrudgingly to both — that they're better off together. They need ex-MI6 cyber whiz Khadijah Adiyeme (Nyong'o) to help, while Colombian psychologist Graciela Rivera (Cruz) gets drawn in after making the trip to stop Luis going off the books. No stranger to covert affairs or formidable women after penning Mr and Mrs Smith, but helming only his second movie following the awful X-Men: Dark Phoenix, director/co-writer Simon Kinberg spreads the action across several continents — including a foot chase in Marrakesh and an auction in Shanghai, which is where Lin Mi Sheng (Fan) joins the story. Scripting with TV veteran Theresa Rebeck (Smash), his big setpieces all play with the film's gender focus, mostly dissecting how women are so often overlooked in various situations; the indifference given wait staff, the invisibility of women in male-dominated societies and the way they're meant to be pure eye candy at black-tie occasions all earn the movie's ire. But these sentiments, like everything else in the feature, are blatant and straightforward at best. The mood the movie vibes with: "James Bond never had to deal with real life," as Cruz is given the misfortune of uttering. From that aforementioned opening scene through to almost every supporting part, it also never escapes attention that men still run The 355's world. That doesn't just include the obvious, because yes, that's sadly the reality we all still live in and the film is making a statement about that very fact; they're everywhere and everyone in the film, other than its central quintet. Whether to further push Chastain and co to the front or to hammer home what it's like to be a woman in this male-centric life, it doesn't leave any room for ladies who aren't these 'strong female lead'-style super spies. Also glaring: that every single one of Mace, Marie, Khadijah, Graciela and Lin's backstories are defined by men, from other halves of the boyfriend, husband or friends-with-benefits varieties to fathers, mentors, children and patients. The 355 should be better — with its dialogue, clearly; with its girl-power, girl-boss, girls-can-do-anything messaging; and at celebrating more than five women, or even showing them. (If you were going to pick five ladies to do the job, though, this casting is spot-on.) It could use a sense of style and charm beyond Nyong'o's suits and the gang's personality-matched auction outfits, and its over-edited action scenes put Kinsberg two for two with tanking a crucial part of his directorial efforts to-date. Women can star in mediocre action movies as well, however. That isn't meant to be the picture's big push for gender parity, but The 355 is also exactly what seemingly millions of bland men-led actioners have been serving up for decades upon decades. It packages it up in an Ocean's 8-meets-Bourne approach, or a more self-serious Charlie's Angels, but these run-of-the-mill flicks have long been everywhere, just without as much oestrogen. The Bond and Mission: Impossible franchises have their own, too. Great idea, winning intentions, stellar cast, generic execution: even by paying all that lip-service to how hard it is to be a woman (especially thanks to those truisms, in fact), that's also The 355. It's lucky that its pseudo–Fox Force Five are so watchable, and so committed to making the most of their thinly written parts, including in their fight choreography — and yes, if only they were gifted some of the fun that Pulp Fiction conjured up about that fictional series, or of Kill Bill, which essentially saw Quentin Tarantino bring the idea to life. A sequel mightn't eventuate for Chastain, the particularly great Kruger, Nyong'o and Cruz, and also Fan to get another spin at the worthy concept, but the groundwork is laid anyway, because that's just one espionage-movie trope in a list of thousands that's delivered here. The 355 is ordinary instead of awful, thankfully, and sometimes it's slightly better than that. But it's also haunted by all those should'ves and could'ves, and by being oh-so-basic with its killer lady spies, their battle against misogyny and their quest to claim some much-needed on-screen space.
The man who helped Amsterdam maintain its nightlife will travel to Sydney in November, as one of the major guest speakers at this year's Electronic Music Conference. As the Night Mayor of Amsterdam, for the past few years Mirik Milan has built connections between business owners, residents and various government entities, creating a safe and prosperous environment under which the city's after dark culture could thrive. Huh. Must be nice. With its world famous lockout laws, the City of Sydney has obviously taken a slightly different approach to its citizen's nocturnal activities — something we're sure Milan will touch on in his opening keynote address. "We believe Milan's knowledge and experience will be invaluable in our own city's pursuit of a vibrant and safe nightlife," said EMC programmer Eric Flanagan. "Amsterdam has shown us and the rest of the world that it is possible to achieve this." Although Night Mayor isn't actually an official government position — rather, Milan is the head of an advisory NGO — that hasn't stopped the former club promoter from having a significant impact on policy. In the past few years he's helped clarify Amsterdam's drug laws, introduced 'soft enforcement' services to try and deescalate potentially dangerous situations, and pushed hard for 24-hour licences in certain nightclubs which, since their introduction, have led to a significant reduction in street noise. He's been so successful that several other cities around Europe, including Zurich and Paris, have introduced Night Mayors of their own. Now in its fifth year, the Electronic Music Festival will run from November 28 until December 2 at the Ivy complex in Sydney, and will feature panels, workshops and masterclasses including Milan, Alison Wonderland, Martin Phillips (Bionic League), Nic HP (Majestic Casual) and Raj Chaudhuri (Boiler Room) amongst many others. Then, on Wednesday November 30, EMCPlay takes over four Sydney venues with over 65 artists, a heaving electronic lineup programmed by Dave Ruby Howe.
Bored of ordering the same old beer or grabbing whichever wine has the prettiest label? This upcoming pop-up bar, or rather an entire house dedicated to quality drinks, will have you out of that rut, opting for spirits and mixing martinis like a pro in no time. Between March 8–10, Dan Murphy's is hosting an interactive pop-up that will help you spot, and serve, a quality tipple. The House of Discovery, as it's been dubbed, will set up in a vacant heritage house in Chippendale on Kensington Street. With a drinks list curated by Dan Murphy's Spirit Ambassador Charlie Ainsbury (ex-This Must Be The Place), each room of the house will focus on a different alcoholic aspect — from a space celebrating all things tequila to cocktail-making presentations in a tiki room to a spread that forgoes tradition and, heroing the tipples over the nosh, matches food to drinks. Think of the whole experience as an intensive course — but with liquor and the promise of being way more fun than school ever was. If this sounds right up your small bar-dotted alley, then we have some great news. We're giving away five double passes to opening night on Thursday, March 8. You and a mate will be granted early access to the house from 7.45pm where you'll meet with Charlie for an intimate cocktail-making session. Through an up-close demo, you'll learn the art of making your ideal cocktail by balancing the spirits you love with mixers and garnishes of your choice. By the time the crowds arrive at 8.30pm, you'll be pouring, muddling, swizzling and shaking like a pro. To enter, see details below. [competition]656921[/competition]
Have you ever wondered who the people on our money actually are? Sure, the Queen's pretty obvious. Okay, we seem to be a little enamoured with our native animals. But wouldn't if be great if you could actually relate to the people proudly emblazoned on our currency? Imagine if you could pay for a cold beer with a few cheeky Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. That's a world I want to live in. So to does German-based designer Andre Levy. Working on an popular Instagram turned Tumblr project called Tales You Lose, this skilled artist has been altering currency from around the world to suit this great idea. He's transformed politicians, royalty and cultural icons into the likes of Princess Leia, Amy Winehouse, Flash and Apu from The Simpsons. "I never collected coins," he told Hyperallergic. "What initially made me accumulate a few was the fact that I keep forgetting them in my pockets ... I saw those coins as massively reproduced sculptures, and felt they could be turned into templates for something richer." Though the act is inherently a kind of defacement, Levy says his intentions aren't political. His subjects are instead decided by convenience. For instance, he often chooses to colour over Queen Elizabeth because of her easily manipulated silhouette. He especially like the Italian 'Vitruvian Man' because you can sneak in a whole standing figure. As far as we can tell, he hasn't yet tackled any Australian currency, though he's always thinking up new ideas for artworks. Right now, he's actually looking for a coin to transform into RuPaul. Seeing as our only pictured person other than the Queen is an Aboriginal elder, I don't think Australia can help him out. Via Hyperallergic.
Conventional maps of political results seen in the media, in stats and in reports often demonstrate a skewed and non-inclusive representation of the outcomes of US Presidential Elections. This then creates a politics of maps. However, Mark Newman, a renowned complexity researcher, has attempted to abate the confusion behind these inaccurate portrayals by creating his own highly inclusive and bona fide images. Newman believed the representations of states coloured by the majority votes was insufficient. Not only do these maps fail to take population into consideration, but they also demonstrate democratic or republican voters in each state as black and white, or in this case blue and red, rather than showing the many shades in between. After billions of dollars and years of incessant campaigning, surely an authentic portrayal of the election results is not too much to ask. Newman has answered this call by creating more realistic and more complex illustrations of the election results. First, view the varying processes Newman went through in accurately depicting the 2008 presidential elections, followed by his political map of the most recent 2012 election. 2008 Election Results By State With red depicting republicans and blue democrats, this widespread map of the 2008 Presidential Election is obviously a vast illusion, as one would not be wrong in mistaking the winner as McCain rather than Obama. 2008 Election Results Population Cartogram This more precise depiction instead shows the election results compared to the population sizes of each state. The fact is that the red states often have a lower population than the blue, thus increasing the proportion of blue in this image and eradicating the sea of red in the previous one. 2008 Election Results by County Rather than assuming an entire state is a homogenized mass holding a single political view, this map shows the electoral votes in each county of the US. Again, however, this image is incredible deceptive and misleading. 2008 Election Results by County Population Cartogram Using the same technology as before, this map demonstrates the results of the election by county, according to population. Once again this makes the balance between red and blue more accurate, however, this is much more specific and localized to certain areas. 2008 Election Results by County in Shades Forget 50 shades of grey, what we want to see is 50 shades of purple. To closer resemble the balance that exists within states and the nuances in voting patterns, Newman used varying shades of purple rather than simply two block colours. This eliminates the vast mass of red or blue spreading over particular areas and demonstrates that the country is not actually starkly divided. 2008 Election Results by County in Shades Population Cartogram Combining all the complex techniques above produces this truthful and reliable depiction of the election results compared to population per county. Much more accurate than the first map given! 2012 Election Results And now for the long awaited images of the recent 2012 US Presidential Election. Here is the image of the standard and simple map of the election results of Romney VS Obama. Not too distant from the image we saw from the 2008 Election. 2012 Election Results by County in Shades Population Cartogram Here is the more authentic portrayal of outcomes from the 2012 election using population per county and shades: an up-to-date representation of America's voting patterns that couldn't be much more accurate.
A new annual event is joining Sydney's regular celebrations of flavour and culinary talent, this time shining a well-deserved spotlight on Australian native ingredients and First Nations flavours — thanks to the inaugural First Nations Food Festival in Carriageworks this September. Taking place on the weekend of Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28, the festival is a showcase of Australia's leading indigenous chefs, businesses and creatives. The lineup, curated by organiser Indigiearth, will highlight bushfood and First Nations culture through food, education and performances. Talents from throughout the world of hospitality and beyond are set to take part, too. There'll be cooking demonstrations from Ben Shewry (Attica), Kylie Kwong and native grains expert, Kerrie Saunders and speaking sessions from Raylene Brown (Kungkas Can Cook), Ronni Kahn (OzHarvest), Pat Torres (Mayi Harvests), Jenny Khan (The Unexpected Guest), and Aunty Beryl, founder of Yaama Barrgay. Visitors will be able to enjoy any of the above sessions, or visit the Indigiearth pop-up cafe, browse market stalls from eighteen participating Indigenous-owned and operated native ingredient producers, and take part in bushfood masterclasses. Speaking ahead of the festival, Indigiearth CEO, Founder and Executive Chef Sharon Winsor said "This festival is more than a showcase, it's a celebration of Country, culture and connection through food…We're sharing the stories of the people who grow, harvest, cook and protect these ancient ingredients with the broader community. It's about honouring our past while creating a stronger future for native foods and First Nations voices." The inaugural Australian Native Food Festival will take place on September 27–28, general admission is free, registration required. To register or for more information, visit the website. Images: supplied
This well-loved Bondi establishment run by two talented Kiwis is a mecca for eastern suburbs sugar slaves. And boy, can they make a good doughnut. Several, actually. The vanilla custard and raspberry jam is divine but perhaps risks being overshadowed by the newer, sinful 'Bronut' — a dark-hued beast filled with moreish chocolate custard and dusted in cocoa powder. Be prepared for a very messy, multiple-napkin eating experience (even those of you who pride yourself on eating tacos neatly). The custard doughnuts come in two sizes: regular ($5.50) and the still satisfying mini ($3.50). For those who don't dig custard, their cinnamon doughnut ($3.50), dusted with Rapadura sugar (the pure juice extracted from sugar cane that's supposedly a healthier alternative to white sugar), also scores big points. Appears in: The Best Bakeries in Sydney for 2023
A mainstay of the suburb, Rose Bay Drive-In Liquor Store is the place to go if you're looking to grab a bottle of vino or ponder more exotic libations. The store was established in 1950 and has occupied its current digs since 1975. There is plenty to explore at the family-owned bottle shop, which prides itself on a vast hand-selected range of drinks from across the country and the world. With its wine advisory service, the staff helps advise the best unions of food and tipple for a special dinner party. Drop by to snag a bottle of your preferred tipple on your way to an event — and, if it's a rainy day, someone will come and serve you right from your car. It also offers delivery across the eastern suburbs, lower north shore and CBD, including glasses, ice and tubs and your pre-chilled booze.
Sydney-based designer Jeremy Saunders has built a career out of transforming films into evocative and arrestingly beautiful movie posters. In the last 10 years, he has produced the key artwork for such modern classics as George Clooney's Good Night and Good Luck, the Che Guevara biopic The Motorcycle Diaries, and Heath Ledger's heroin-fuelled love story Candy. Now Saunders has turned his hand to his own artwork, redesigning posters for films of his own choosing. First up is the poster series LYNCHED, based on the stylish and darkly mysterious world of director and cult legend David Lynch. By focusing on key objects in Lynch's films, such as the dismembered ear in Blue Velvet or the videotape in Lost Highway, Saunders has created a series of beautifully minimalist posters illustrating the bizarre details in Lynch's works that have made his filmography so iconic and enduring. Saunders told us that while he was inspired by the distinctive 'Lynch style', the motivation to create the posters came from a sudden artistic impulse. "Over the last few years the rise of the 'minimalist redesign' for existing movies has become more and more prevalent around the web," he says. "I'd always been a bit snooty about it, I think, because designing something that nods to a pre-existing understanding of a film is completely oppositional to the much harder task of creating a desire for something no-one's familiar with yet. "So I'd avoided doing them. Plus, you know, I was kind of busy with making movie posters as my day job. But one afternoon I was watching Lost Highway and the image came to me, and over the course of the next day I created the artworks." Have a look below to see all the posters from LYNCHED and check out Saunders website if you'd like to get your hands on your own movie poster.
From the Grounds of Alexandria's resident pig, the postcard-happy sands of Surfers Paradise and the hallowed turf of Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia's a genuinely Instagrammable place. Inevitably, there's a few prime snap-happy spots that get a little more filtered love than others; for obvious tourism reasons but also for kickass food on the table reasons. Sydney dominated the list, with seven in the top ten — a number it clearly can thank Vivid Sydney for. Using geotag data, the Daily Telegraph has revealed the ten most Instagrammed places in Australia for 2014. The results were taken from the geotags added by 'grammers (if you glazed over before, that's the latitude and longitude of your current location with your photo) and compiled into a top ten list. Here's the places you whacked a sweet filter on this year. Australia's Ten Most Instagrammed Places For 2014 10. Coogee Beach, Sydney The Pool in Coogee. #coogee #coogeebeach #aussie #australia #aussieadventure #australiansummer #summer #december #beachtime #sydney #sydneycity A photo posted by Daniela Valencia (@danyvalencia88) on Dec 12, 2014 at 4:55am PST 9. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Hallowed ground. A photo posted by @tonikchurch on Dec 12, 2014 at 9:31pm PST 8. Circular Quay, Sydney Lights on and crowds out at #vividsydney. A video posted by Concrete Playground Sydney (@concreteplayground) on May 5, 2014 at 4:12am PDT 7. St Kilda Beach, Melbourne A photo posted by Claudia (@claw_dear) on Dec 12, 2014 at 2:27pm PST 6. The Grounds of Alexandria, Sydney Thanks to all our 'grammers who tag #thegrounds as their location when they visit! @instagram has just named us the 6th most geo-tagged destination in the country alongside some big tourist icons. Thanks for the love. Keep tagging, you guys rock! (One of our fave images from @chriscourt) A photo posted by The Grounds of Alexandria (@thegroundsofalexandria) on Dec 12, 2014 at 9:45pm PST 5. Surfers Paradise Beach Waking up to this isn't too bad #visitsurfersparadise #surferssnaps photo: @absolomphotography A photo posted by SurfersParadise (@visitsurfersparadise) on Oct 10, 2014 at 7:11pm PDT 4. Bondi Beach "Double trouble" - last night. Sydney is in for another run of storm and rolling clouds. If you decide to go out and shoot, be safe ! I might be out there again... #frothers #frothersgallery #franckgazzola #mynikonlife #d4s #amazing #weather #extreme #bolt #lightning #flash #clouds #cloudporn #sydney #australia #seeaustralia #crazy #ocean #sea #eclair #orage A photo posted by Franck Gazzola (@franckgazzola) on Dec 12, 2014 at 10:15pm PST 3. Sydney Harbour Bridge spinal tap // #sydney #sydneyharbourbridge #architecture #architectureporn #bridge #bridgeporn #blue #colour #street #streetphotography #citylife #igerssydney #icu_aussies #tv_pointofview #rsa_streetview A photo posted by John Appleseed (@thateightieskid) on Dec 12, 2014 at 11:04pm PST 2. Darling Harbour, Sydney #australia #sydney #darlingharbour#instaaustralia #instasydney #nightview #instatravel #instatrip #??????? #????#?????????#??#?? #?? A photo posted by @kumasuca on Dec 12, 2014 at 7:35am PST 1. Sydney Opera House VIVID Sydney 2014 #vivid #vividsydney A photo posted by Photos of VIVID (@photosofvivid) on Nov 11, 2014 at 11:03pm PST Via Daily Telegraph.
It's a brand new year, filled with the promise of new albums, new restaurant openings, new regrettable fashion trends. We're only a few days into 2015, so we thought it was high time you delved into some unchartered territory; harbour pools you may have never visited (or since you had water wings), shops you've never perused, films you've never been moved by, meals you've never demolished. Let's swim, play and eat our way through, with a little retail therapy at the close. Just remember to be a total legend and whack on some sunscreen and a hat before you head out; check out Pretty Shady for their (free) go-to skin savers. SWIM: WYLIE'S You mightn't have visited Wylie's since you thought Sea Shirts were cool, but this little gem is worth a nostalgic revisit to kick off the new year. Just south of Coogee Beach along the coastal walk, Wylie's Baths boasts a straight-up picturesque canopy and solid kiosk elevated above the pool — one of Sydney's most beautiful spots to obliterate a Golden Gaytime. While it's pretty packed on weekends with families, the crowd gets a lot more diverse mid-week, and Sydney's senior sunbathing ladies might be happy to assist you with your knitting pattern. Just be sure to bring along your ol' friend SPF30+ and your best Schoolboy Q-style bucket hat; that Australian sun can be fierce on the coast. Check out Pretty Shady for their (free) go-to skin savers. Neptune St, Coogee PLAY: ST GEORGE OPENAIR CINEMA Seven premieres, thirteen previews and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’s 21st birthday are all part of the 2015 St. George OpenAir Cinema programme. Australia’s most legendary tour bus will celebrate her coming-of-age with a special Australia Day screening. And you’re invited to kit-up for the occasion, with the most outrageous tiaras, wigs, feather boas and heels you can lay your hands on. All in all, 42 films will screen between January 7 and February 21. Tickets are currently on sale and tend to go pretty quickly, so get on it. For a full rundown of the program, head over here. Janurary 7 - February 21, Mrs Macquarie's Point, Sydney. EAT/DRINK: FINO PAR Located on the ground floor of TFE’s Vibe Hotel in that Surry Hills-slash-CBD area south of Hyde Park, Fino Par already wins on decor. What used to be a garish lime-green and bright orange concoction called Curve Cafe is now a wide-opened, street-fronting, dark and semi-industrial diner designed by The Gentry. Hiding inside tan leather, the tapas-focused menu, according to Chilean-born, executive chef Nelson Burgos (Foley Lane, Mamasita), is a combination of Spanish, Chilean and locally sourced produce. The man behind the booze is ex-Hello Sailor Brett Harris, who’s created a 100 percent Spanish wine list plus cocktails to boot, regularly centring around Spanish sherry and house, barrel-aged sangria. Read our full review here. Cnr Elizabeth & Goulburn St, Sydney. SHOP: THE SOCIAL OUTFIT Where else can you get recycled vintage Ken Done fabrics and help out Australia's new migrants? Philanthropist and CEO of The Social Outfit Jackie Ruddock is giving you a very good reason to bust out those credit cards: her social enterprise employs and trains migrants in producing fashion with a contemporary Australian aesthetic. Nothing is by accident, down to the Newtown shop fit-out, designed entirely by Nina Maya, a Sydney designer who also contributed to Colour Chameleon, The Social Outfit’s first line, made up of donated digital prints from the likes of Dragstar and Ken Done. Read more here. 353 King Street, Newtown. Check out Pretty Shady for more summer tips and ideas on how to beat that dastardly sun at its own game. By the Concrete Playground team. Top image: Gemma Stiles via photopin cc.
Newcastle is an all-timer as a destination for a quick and easy getaway out of Sydney. Take the bustling local hospitality, stunning coastal attractions and ever-expanding waterfront entertainment precincts — plus the plenty of fantastic stays on offer. One of those stays, Little National Hotel Newcastle, is celebrating its first birthday this month. With an on-site offering that resembles an inner-city coworking hub and rooms packed with everything you need for comfortable stays, you should remember this destination for any upcoming Newcastle sojourns. What can one expect at a stay like this? Situated on Honeysuckle Drive, a stone's throw from the Newcastle Transport Interchange, Darby Street dining precinct and Hunter Street light rail, the 181-room property sets you up in a prime perch to explore the rest of the city. There's plenty of luxury to be enjoyed on-site, since each design-focused room is packed to the rafters with amenities. Every room includes a super king bed, for starters, plus motion-sensor lighting, in-room tablets, Bluetooth audio and Byredo amenities to add a dash of extra relaxation. Planning a lengthy stay? The hotel keeps several apartment suites with additional floor space for a home away from home. Beyond the room and within the building, you'll find a 24-hour gym stacked with state-of-the-art equipment, and a two-storey coworking-style library and lounge atrium that offers complimentary drinks and snacks for those who need to get some work done. Once you start feeling peckish, you can hit the ground floor cafe, Monte, for breakfast and lunch, or just a quick coffee to go. The lounge bar offers evening drinks and a range of snacks which can be enjoyed in-room, but you wouldn't need to wander far for a feed in the surrounding offering of Newcastle venues. Interest piqued? Since the hotel is celebrating its birthday, it's offering Concrete Playground readers a free night's stay. To redeem this rare opportunity, you'll have to be among the first 20 readers to use code 'CPLNFREE' to book a minimum two-night stay between Monday, May 19–Sunday, May 25, with the free night valid for stays until Sunday, August 31. Little National Hotel is located at 44 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle. For more information or to make a booking, visit the Little National Hotel Newcastle website. For a chance to win a complimentary night's stay at the Little National Hotel Newcastle, you'll have to be one of the first 20 readers to use code CPLNFREE when booking a minimum two-night stay between Monday, May 19–Sunday, May 25 — with the discount available for stays until Sunday, August 31.
A new rooftop bar from a beloved Sydney brewer is set to open on Friday, October 22 in the inner west. Philter Brewing is drawing inspiration from 80s garden bars and Palm Springs with its new sun-soaked rooftop bar on top of its Marrickville brewery and taproom. Since launching a no-fuss XPA four years ago, Philter has become a mainstay in Sydney bottle shops, pubs and bars. Now, the craft beer merchant is trying its hand at facilitating summer beers and cocktails by opening this new rooftop venue, Marrickville Springs. The space is fitted out with pastel-hued tiles, white breeze blocks, a neon bin chicken and a mural from local artist Mielo. "The ibis was a given, nothing says Marrickville like a picnic pirate, but the palm trees shout out to the area, too," Philter Sales and Marketing Director Stef Constantoulas says. "We wanted Marrickville Springs to have a totally different feel to our bar and restaurant downstairs, but it's still very Philter — it's all in the retro touches," Managing Director Mick Niel says. On the rooftop you'll be able to sip Philter's range of beers both on tap and in tins, plus your choice from a reserved wine list and frozen cocktails. Enmore Road joint Jacoby's will be helping out by curating a selection of classic cocktails for the bar. While cracking a beer in the sun is the main attraction at Marrickville Springs, there will also be a selection of typical but tasty bar snacks including dinner party favourite prawn cocktails and tasting boards decked out with locally sourced cheese. The bar will be open to walk-ins, but if you're heading out with a large group you can reserve a spot at the Philter Brewing website. Marrickville Springs is located at 92–98 Sydenham Road, Marrickville. It will open on Friday, October 22.
'Wine' and 'festival': they're two words that almost always lead to happy times for you and your gang. The Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival will return come Saturday, April 6, and with it comes a celebration of the region's food and wine. Local winemakers will engulf the town centre — Rosalind Park to be precise — for five hours of alfresco fun. Over 60 different wines will be on show for you to sample, so grab a glass, have a chat to the winemakers and do a big collective 'cheers' to the end of the harvest. Remember to pace yourself (small sips, not big gulps) and that eating isn't cheating — there'll be plenty of food stalls to keep you plugging along wholesomely. There'll also be live music from The Deans and The Funk Junkies and competitions running all day. You can BYO picnic rug or, if you're feeling ritzy, nab a private VIP marquee for $750. It'll get you and eleven mates entry to the festival (with a souvenir wine glass and complimentary wine tastings), access to the special private digs all day and a 30-minute private wine masterclass with a Bendigo region winemaker. Strategem Bendigo Winemakers Festival will run from 11am–4pm on Saturday, April 6. Tasting tickets start at $45, which includes a souvenir wine glass and complimentary wine tastings. Non-tasting tickets are available from $25. For more information and to purchase tickets, head this way.
When it comes to enjoying great views, this Rose Bay diner takes prime position. It's not just located by the water, but in fact located right on it. Situated right on Rose Bay's marina, Empire Lounge is the departure lounge for Sydney Seaplanes. Diners don't have to be flying to enjoy watching seaplanes touch down on the waterfront, while dining in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Seafood is the star here, with oysters sourced from the NSW coastline, fresh sashimi, kingfish crudo, tiger prawns and barramundi curry. Images 4 & 5: Anna Kucera
Two years ago, the City of Sydney announced a program that would bring food trucks off the bitter Saturday morning soccer fields and into the nightlife of the inner city. The nine food trucks that patrol Sydney’s streets every weekend have become a very welcome fixture around town, with thousands of people every month rocking up to treat themselves to a vast array of dishes and cuisines from the varied vehicles parked around the place, and the locator app being downloaded 51,000 times. Now, since the two-year trial period has come to an end, the City of Sydney has decided to give a massive thumbs up to the scheme and have pledged to expand the number of mobile street food vendors around town. As the restaurant-on-the-run owners apply to ply their wares, what’s going to get Sydney into the street-food big leagues with cities like New York, Los Angeles and Paris? And, as the program progresses and expands, what does the future hold for our town and its mobile eateries? 50 NEW FOOD TRUCKS TO HIT THE STREETS The City of Sydney Council have been working with the feedback from the street-food obsessed public to find out what it is that will make the program better, and the response has been pretty straightforward, according to Lana Zegura, the brains behind the management of the project. “The only improvement they want is for more trucks,” she says. So more trucks are what we’ll get. The council plans to approve up to 50 more mobile canteens, with applications to open next month. However, a lot of people are jumping the gun, eager to claim their permit. “It’s looking very healthy,” says Zegura of the response to the news, “we’ve had over 600 enquiries so far.” Which is a lot. The owners and operators of the trucks couldn’t agree more, in terms of the public response to the initial trial period. Simon Lawson, chef and operator of the Agape Organic Food Truck, has loved every second of his time behind the wheel. “I’m a chef, so I enjoy talking to people,” he says. “The public love it so much … there’s only been positive feedback from where we’ve been.” PUTTING SYDNEY ON THAT GLOBAL MAP Street food thrives all over the world, with hundreds of food trucks cooking up a storm all over the biggest cities, like New York, London and Paris. The hope is that our own expanding program to get more trucks on the street and more options in the hands of the public will get Sydney on that list of worldwide hot spots. “Sydney doesn’t have that street food culture," says Lawson, "but in time, it’ll become more popular.” That's something that the council bears in mind, too. Zegura hopes that the trucks, by providing more variety to more people than ever before, will “make us a global city, like New York or San Francisco”. Given that the-late night options in Sydney don’t extend much past CBD bars and pubs, a continually expanding program of late-night alternatives to drinking can only help to cement Sydney as a truly global destination. According to Zegura, the program is "part of our over-arching OPEN Sydney strategy to make Sydney safer, more vibrant, and to provide more late-night food alternatives.” It’s this kind of policy that’s commonplace all over the world, and is becoming a bigger focus here at home. THE LUNCH LET-DOWN With more the number of trucks increasing more than five times, Sydney street food is set to become a whole lot more visible. But at the moment, the plan remains night-centric. It's the fight for city parking that's limiting the possibilities of trade. "It’d be nice to have more permanent lunch time spots,” says Lawson, but he recognises the issues behind this. More trucks need more parking spaces, and the large vehicles could cause heavy traffic issues in the more congestion-prone areas of the CBD. However, more open lunch time spot, such as parks, are being explored as options by the council. “The people managing the program are doing a great job,” he adds. BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS The City of Sydney only controls the food trucks in its own jurisdiction, but the good news is that councils all around the Greater Sydney region are looking into implementing their own, similar projects. Interest is growing all over. “We get people following our truck,” says Lawson, “even coming from way out west to eat.” Councils in Randwick, Liverpool and Parramatta are all exploring the possibility of hosting food trucks, which bodes well for the entire region, not just the CBD. The word is spreading, and we couldn’t be more pumped.
When Michael Crichton put pen to paper and conjured up a modern-day dinosaur-filled amusement park, he couldn't have known exactly what he'd done. The author easily imagined the story making its way to the big screen, because the Jurassic Park novel started out as a screenplay. He could've also perceived that a whole film franchise could follow, and that folks would be quoting the movies for decades. And yet, we're guessing that he didn't predict the latest development: a recreation of the Jurassic World movies, which started with fourth flick in the series back in 2015, made completely out of Lego. Jurassic World by Brickman first popped up in Melbourne in 2021, and now Sydneysiders will be able to wander through it, too — and peer at more than 50 dinosaurs, props and scenes from the Jurassic World movies that have all been fashioned out of the popular plastic bricks in the process. That'll all be on display at the Australian Museum from Saturday, March 5–Sunday, May 29, as part of the exhibition's tour of the country. More than six million Lego blocks have been used in the exhibition, to create the four-metre-tall park gates, the lab where the dinosaurs are genetically engineered, those instantly recognisable jeeps, a petting zoo, a heap of creatures and more. Welcome to... your Lego Jurassic World fantasy, basically. Lego dinosaurs are obviously the main attraction and, yes, this event is going big. There'll be a life-sized brachiosaurus that weighs more than two tonnes, a huge tyrannosaurus rex, two life-sized velociraptors (Blue and Delta), and everything from a stegosaurus to a triceratops, too. Just for Sydney, there'll also be a new 400-kilogram baryonyx that spans 4.8-metres in length. Plus, you'll see some prehistoric creatures in the baby dinosaur enclosure, encounter more on the loose and learn how to track them over the exhibition's recreation of Isla Nublar (while using your imagination a whole heap, obviously). If it all sounds rather sizeable, that's because Jurassic World by Brickman is the largest Lego exhibition in Australia. And if getting a closer look at Jurassic World sounds a little familiar, you might remember the non-Lego exhibition that hit Melbourne back in 2016. Lego aficionados will also be able to get building while they're there, with 2.5 million bricks to play with. Obviously, this'll be a family-friendly affair, so expect to have plenty of small dinosaur fans for company. And if you're wondering when you'll next see a Jurassic World flick on the big screen, Jurassic World Dominion — the followup to 2018's Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom — is due to release this June. Yes, Jurassic World by Brickman's Sydney timing is just as great as whatever it took to get the franchise's original trio of Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern and Sam Neill to reunite in the upcoming flick. Jurassic World by Brickman will display at the Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Darlinghurst, from Saturday, March 5–Sunday, May 29. Tickets on sale at 10am AEDT on Thursday, February 17.
Canadian artist Jon Rafman has presented viewers with a collection of the most bizzare, quirky and often disturbing images that are captured on Google's Street View. Named after the nine cameras that sit on top of the vehicles used to capture the images that form Google's mapping service, Rafman's work has again expanded notions of art and street photography. The collection includes four masked strangers on a highway in Mexico, a van engulfed in flames on the brink of explosion in Brazil, and a man revealing his bare bottom in Ireland. Rafman states that he collected the images through Street View blogs and his own use of the service, and has offered a lengthy essay detailing the purpose of the work and it's significance. Like the stunning images captured by Aaron Hobson, Rafman has shown us that the Internet is reaching a vastness that allows us to become virtual explorers of the world. With Google's mission to map the entire world and immortalise it online, there will be no shortage of images from fascinatingly random locations that we haven't even heard of. Next time you pass one of Google's vehicles you should quickly comb your hair and flash your best smile. After all, you might become part of an artwork. [via Buzzfeed]
A well-designed sneaker is one of the finer things in life, much like a fine wine, a Cuban cigar or a cabinet fashioned from rich mahogany. Step into a crowded room wearing a good pair of kicks and you may verily command that room. Knowing this, luxury brand-touting Sneakerboy has come to us from Melbourne bearing not only the finest sneakers but a novel way of purchasing them — combining the efficiency of online shopping with the hands-on, social advantage of bricks-and-mortar stores. One feels that if Kanye or will.i.am were to go shopping in Sydney, this would be their first stop. Creative director Chris Kyvetos, who's formerly contributed his talents to Harrolds as creative director andAssin as a designer, is the mastermind behind this high-end sneaker gallery. How does it differ from yourHypes and your Platypi? Sneakerboy is like the Berlin underground gothic nightclub of sneaker stores, with a semi-secret location deep in Temperance Lane — you may have already walked by it, completely oblivious to the illuminated circular tunnel of leathery delights right under your nose. (Like me you may, however, have clocked the mysteriously attractive men loitering in the laneway). Enter the industrial-style, concrete-floored magic bunker and you'll see mounted rows of shoes by Prada, Yohji Yamamoto, Pierre Hardy, Balenciaga, Reebok, Krisvanassche, Givenchy and more. There are also clothes to be tried on, by designers Hood By Air, Christopher Kane and other trendoids of a similar, street-wise stripe. The shopfit is inspired by public spaces and the Paris Metro in particular, with future-retro metal seats and lighting cues giving the store a vibe that's raw and edgy yet sleek. Tech details hint at the forward-thinking outlook of this retail concept — plugs peeking out of shoe displays and screens mounted in the chairs. Where's the cash register? There is none — all sales are done on your own phone. This is just the physical place where you experience a product that you'll buy online, and which will be shipped to your door from offshore warehouses in Hong Kong (within 3-5 days, pledges Chris). It's also where you're likely to run into some of the slickest folk in town.
While unscrewing the cap on a bottled cocktail was the closest many of us got to a bar for a large chunk of 2020, some clever Sydneysiders actually opened a bar. And they're an impressive bunch, too. Our fair city is now home to a gin distillery in Surry Hills, a retrofuturistic bar on the 83rd level of Sydney Tower and lower north shore spot dedicated to cognac and jaffles. That's just the start. As the storm clouds start to clear and we reach the end of a weird (and sometimes horrific) 12 months, we're taking a moment to celebrate the good that's come from 2020 by rounding up the best new bars to open their doors this year.
Catching all the brilliant sights that Vivid’s offering up this year can be thirsty work. So, to keep you refreshed, Finely Tuned (creators of SOH’s Garden Bar by the Corner House) have transformed Martin Place into an illuminated culinary maze that’s part fairyland, part sci-fi cityscape. It’s built of industrial water tanks, made pretty with the help of pixel-mapped LED lights. A previous collaboration with German architects Modulorbeat provided the inspiration. “We wanted to create a giant sprawling space, filled with lights and places to stop and enjoy the ambiance of Vivid Sydney,” said creative director Joe Crossley. “The industrial water tanks were the perfect medium to build this zone, fusing food stalls and industrial elements together to create a unique light show.." Every evening from 5.30pm, an array of Sydney’s favourite street food providers will be onsite — including Eat Art Truck, Agape Organic, Poklol, Jafe Jaffles, Woofys, Cantina Mobil, Bite Size Delights and Gelato Messina — and, for drinks of the alcoholic variety, Bondi’s Panama House. Check out our other favourite dining spots with Vivid views. Colour3 runs from May 23 to June 9 in Martin Place.
If anyone knows how to throw a tequila festival, it's the agave experts at Sydney's Méjico — Australia's biggest tequila bar, with over 250 different varieties. And that's exactly what it's doing, throwing a celebration of things agave on Saturday, October 6. The four-hour tasting session will takeover the CBD eatery from midday, showcasing over 20 different tequila creations, many of which aren't usually available on Aussie shores. You'll have the chance to chat with some of the country's top tequila suppliers, sip many different agave spirits and maybe a cocktail or too. Ticket prices — $15 online, $25 on the door — include tequila tastings and Méjico's tasty tacos, and it'll be slinging $5 sol and $10 margaritas all day, too.
A brand-new interactive advertising campaign from Play Melbourne jumps energetically away from traditional advertising. In an attempt to allow tourists to experience a city before they actually arrive, the Remote Control Tourist lets online users control the movements of two real tourists and watch the results via live stream. Essentially, you sign into remotecontroltourist.com using your Facebook or Twitter account. You can see the map of where the tourist is, what’s nearby, and their video and audio feeds. Then, just send a request for that tourist to do whatever you want. For example, "Find out if Manchester Press do Brazilian coffee." They don’t. The logic behind the two peeps with camera strapped to their heads seems to be that typical tourism ads just show what the tourism company wants you to see, but as a tourist the experience is always totally different. So why not check out the tourist life before embarking on it, all from the comfort and safety of your own home? The idea is not so crazy. The real-life tourist doesn’t have to acquiesce to every request, so nothing creepy or weird is going to go down. Plus, it appeals to the God complex that hides deep down inside us all — who doesn’t want to have complete control over somebody for a little while? It’s also oddly addictive to watch a total stranger responding to online requests like that. So, if you want a chance to "go before you go" to Melbourne, check out the website between October 9-13. Images via Remote Control Tourist.
So, you've always wanted to explore Australia, but keep jetting off overseas instead. Or, maybe you like the idea of travelling more than actually doing it. For anyone keen to experience destinations they haven't yet visited — and for those that are happy enough to pretend that they're on holiday instead of hopping on a plane — virtual reality offers a solution. And, with their new VR app, Qantas is jumping on that bandwagon. Fresh from announcing that they're closing in on non-stop flights between Australia and Europe, the airline has released their next attempt to change travelling as we know it. Courtesy of 13 immersive 360-degree videos, you can now enjoy everything from a world-first virtual fly over of Uluru to diving at the Great Barrier Reef off Hamilton Island. Heading to Sydney's VIVID, climbing the Harbour Bridge, taking a sunset river cruise through Kakadu National Park, and discovering the spectacular sights and inhabitants of Ormiston Gorge — they're all on the agenda (and once you've felt just like you're there, Qantas is clearly hoping that you'll book a real trip). You can also glide in a hot air balloon over Alice Springs and sail to Whitehaven Beach as part of your virtual tour of the country. Additional content showcasing other locations will be rolled out over the coming weeks, so if you've caught the VR travel bug, your journey is just beginning. And while the Qantas VR app is currently available on iPhone, Android, Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Rift and HTC Vive devices, don't stress if you don't have the requisite headwear — you can also watch in 2D mode on your phone.
If you're keen for some fashion finds that are both thrifty and charitable, head to the Paddington Town Hall this winter. The Red Cross will be hosting a huge pop-up shop — on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 — and all proceeds will going to the Australian charity. Expect thousands of vintage, pre-loved and new fashion items on offer, including designer clothing, shoes and accessories. Dig through winter-appropriate coats and boots, or get ready for next summer (it'll be here before you know it) and stock up on denim and dresses. Need new bowls? A new rug? Lost all your spoons? A heap of homewares will be up for grabs, too. And if just acting as a consumer doesn't hit your do-good quota, the Red Cross is also calling for volunteers to join the pop-up staff. The shop will be open from 9am–5pm on Saturday and 9am–2pm on Sunday and entry is free. Save your wardrobe shopping until then and do some good with your spending money — give back one designer dress at a time.
As the director of Flickerfest for the past 15 years, Bronwyn Kidd has programmed thousands of short films — and seen many, many more. She's got such a strong eye, in fact, that one more category in the festival has become Academy® Accredited this year, giving its filmmakers a track to the Oscars. She shared with us her top six films to keep a particularly close eye on at Flickerfest. So no getting distracted by the Bondi stars or ducking out for a drink at the bar when you see these titles flash on the screen. 1. Oh Willy A quirky animation about Willy, who needs to go back to a naturist community after the death of his mother. 2. Zimmer 606 A brilliant blend of live action and animation by Peter Volkart, a master of the craft who has screened many other films at Flickerfest. 3. Life Vest Under Your Seat An hilarious short film about a nightmare passenger you hope you never have to sit next to on any flight from Spain. 4. The Captain A quirky film about a man who winds up in the wreckage of an airline crash having to piece together what happened. Directed by Nash Edgerton and Spencer Susser. 5. A Cautionary Tail A world-class animation with the voices of Cate Blanchett, Barry Otto, and David Wenham. 6. A Story for the Modlins An amazing documentary about the star of the film from Rosemary's Baby. They're all part of the packed Flickerfest 2013 program. Details and screening times are on their website.
Summer, glorious summer: we spend all year waiting for the perfect weather and a respite from the responsibilities of everyday life but, too often, the holidays pass us by without any noteworthy adventures. No longer. To help you take full advantage of this summer break, we've teamed up with Expedia to select five destinations that are guaranteed to take your holidays from average to exceptional. Each location is less than a nine-hour flight from Sydney — perfect for a cheeky little trip — you'll be soaking up the good life in exotic surroundings before you know it. Because we know that you're all just as into food as we are, we've hunted down somewhere to eat once you get there, from fine dining, to cafe and street food and waterside restaurants. Happy adventuring. AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND FLIGHT TIME: THREE HOURS Overlooked by many tourists who rush onwards to the North Island's more famous landscapes, Auckland is something of a hidden gem. There are waterfront vistas that give Sydney a run for its money, world-class restaurants and a burgeoning art scene all to be explored. Book at room at the colourful boutique Hotel DeBrett and start your visit with a wander around Viaduct Harbour, a glittering precinct with numerous bars and restaurants offering gorgeous views over the harbour. With its acclaimed seafood dishes, Euro is a particular highlight. For your culture fix, head to the Auckland Art Gallery, home to over 15,000 works by Māori, Pacific Island, and international artists. Pop into the gallery cafe for delicious pastries and coffee served in a bright, airy space. Still hungry? If you're in town during a weekend, don't miss French-inspired farmers market La Cigale, where you can gorge yourself silly on a selection of cheeses, pastries, artisanal bread and other delicacies. Next, it's time to get outdoors. No visit to Auckland is complete without a trek up one of the city's 53 volcanic peaks. Mount Eden is a favourite for its jaw-dropping crater and sweeping views over the city. For a unique beach experience, head to the western shore, where black sand beaches are flanked by dramatic cliffs and dunes. More of a classic white sand/emerald waters person? Catch a 40-minute ferry to stunning Waiheke Island. The retreat of choice for Auckland's affluent types, the island is also home to dozens of world-class wineries (try the secluded Te Whau for its delicious blends and award-winning restaurant). EAT: KAZUYA Auckland's legendary Japanese restaurant Kazuya is not something to miss. At this fine dining establishment the waiters wear white gloves. Try the signature dish 'Texture' — 30 different types of vegetables, from tiny shavings of baby beetroot to exquisite mustard greens and perfectly cooked, bright green broccoli. Check out Concrete Playground Auckland for an entire city's worth of more handy eating, drinking and playing tips. [caption id="attachment_580107" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Levi Morsy.[/caption] BALI, INDONESIA FLIGHT TIME: SIX HOURS With its lush landscapes, gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and relative affordability, it's not surprising that Bali is on practically every Aussie's bucket list. Plus, the paradisiacal island offers something for everyone: from the party animal to the surf bum to the yogi. If it's nightlife you're after, skip overdone Kuta and head to still busy but less saturated Seminyak. Hang out at Ku De Ta, an upscale restaurant and bar that morphs into a club in the evenings or catch a live gig at Potato Head bar. If it's gourmet eats you want, Seminyak's buzzing foodie scene offers endless options. Two standouts are Sardine, where oh-so-fresh seafood is served in a bamboo structure overlooking emerald rice paddies, and Barbacoa, a South American joint with stunning decor. More of a beach type? Don't miss Uluwatu, an area famous for its pristine beaches, amazing surf, and awe-inspiring sunsets. Grab your board and spend the day riding world-class surf breaks, or simply grab a book and a cocktail and while the afternoon away on the sand. Keen to create your own version of Eat, Pray, Love (stay with us)? Then Ubud is the place for you. Bali's cultural heart offers yoga and meditation studios aplenty, and has spas on practically every street corner. Our pick is Putri Bali Spa, which offers an insanely affordable five-hour package that will leave you glowing. Book your visit just before you hop on the plane, and you'll return to Sydney entirely blissed out. EAT: DAMAI This poolside restaurant serves award-winning cuisine using local Balinese ingredients, many of which are grown in the restaurant's kitchen garden. Meat and shellfish come from the villa's boutique farm, and eggs and poultry are gathered from locals. Book a room in the accompanying, stunning villa and treat yourself. SUVA, FIJI FLIGHT TIME: SEVEN HOURS With dazzling sand, crystal clear waters, and palm trees at every turn, there's almost no better place than Fiji for a beach-heavy holiday (plus, your Instagram photos are guaranteed to make your mates cry with envy). Composed of 333 islands, choosing where to spend your time in Fiji will be the hardest part of your holiday. We suggest you start with Viti Levu, Fiji's largest island and home to the nation's capital city, Suva. Filled with striking colonial architecture, temples, mosques, and museums, this is the perfect place to get your culture fix before heading to the beach. If you're in town on a Saturday morning, don't miss the municipal market for a heady taste of local life and a great selection of fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. Once you've fully explored Suva, it's time to make a beeline for the ocean. For stellar snorkelling and diving, look no further than the impossibly picturesque Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands. For some of the world's best surfing breaks, head to Namatou Island, where you'll be spoiled for choice. In between your water activities, try some yaqona (or kava). This ceremonial drink is ubiquitous in Fiji and should be tried at least once — in fact, if you're invited to join a local kava ceremony, it's considered impolite to say no. Once you've soaked up the idyllic beachside lifestyle for a few days, tear yourself away from the water and venture into some lush island interiors. For gorgeous hikes through a protected rainforest with plenty of waterfalls and deep pools, try the Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni Island. For a stunning accomodation option, we reccomend the Tokoriki Island Resort — it has fishing, snorkelling and sailing on site. EAT: TRADITIONAL DELICACIES There are a wealth of restaurants to eat at when you're in Fiji, but the local cuisine trumps it all. Heavily influenced by the water that surrounds it, Fijian food is filled with seafood options — like octopus, sea urchin and fish. Each island in Fiji will have their own version of Kokoda — finely chopped raw fish dressed with a thick coconut cream, onions, spices and lime juice. It's traditionally served in half a coconut shell, or a clamshell. [caption id="attachment_574226" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Image: Kai Lehmann via Flickr[/caption] SINGAPORE FLIGHT TIME: EIGHT HOURS Once just somewhere to kill time during a layover, the Lion City has reinvented itself as a destination in its own right. A melting pot of Asian cultures, the bustling city-state is a foodie's heaven and you could easily spend your entire holiday stuffing your face. In fact, that's exactly what we suggest you do — plan your itinerary around food and fill time between meals with a few of the city's top attractions. Of course, Singapore offers a lot beyond incredible food. For a slice of nature, head to the stunning Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage site, or spend hours wandering around the Bukit Timah Naturae Reserve. And don't miss the Singapore Zoo — the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with an orangutang family (really). Of course, no trip to Singapore is complete without a little shopping: for the best retail therapy, head straight to Orchard Road, which boasts 22 (!) shopping malls and six department stores. For a good home base, book a room at the stunning Park Royal — it's surrounded by the city's beautiful greenery. EAT: WAKU GHIN Seafood is the focus at Waku Ghin, a Singaporean restaurant by Tetsuya Waduka (of the legendary Sydney Japanese restaurant Tetsuya's). Save up and sit down for a degustation in a stunning, fine dining restaurant within the Marina Bay Sands hotel — which overlooks the Singapore bay. Cocktails and sake options are just as innovative as the food. While Singapore is home to many upscale restaurants, make like the locals and eat at the city's hawker centres, where you can sample the city's iconic dishes without burning a hole in your wallet. For the best Hainanese chicken rice, look no further than Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle in the Chinatown Complex hawker market. Other musts are chilli crab (head to Palm Beach Seafood Restaurant for this) and nasi biryani (Tekka Centre for South Indian cuisine serves up some of the city's best). OAHU, HAWAII FLIGHT TIME: NINE HOURS If you like your beach holidays with a generous helping of non-beach activities, you'll fall head over heels for Oahu. Hawaii's most populous island offers laid-back island living on its eastern and northern shores and the bustle of urban life in the capital Honolulu. What's not to love? Start by checking in and blissing out at The Royal Hawaiian hotel, then spend a few days on iconic Waikiki Beach, where you can snorkel, swim, or learn to surf during the day and relax over a few drinks and nibbles at night. To enjoy Oahu from a different vantage point, hike up Diamond Head crater for epic views over the island. For a more challenging climb, try the Olomana hike: your efforts will be rewarded with striking panoramic vistas. Make time to catch one of the island's legendary sunsets from the aptly-named Sunset Beach. Then, it's time to head to the North Shore. If you're an advanced surfer, you'll know this corner of the island is famous for its giant waves. Once you've worked up an appetite, feast at one (or a few) of the many food trucks or tiny restaurants that dot the area. Make sure to try the iconic poke (Pupukea Grill serves up particularly tasty bowls) or shrimp from Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, which has become something of a local institution. EAT: PEACE CAFE Maybe Honolulu's only vegan restaurant, Peace is located in a tranquil, tropical cottage in Honolulu. They serve up delicious sandwiches, sweets and lunchboxes made with organic vegetables and local ingredients. Pick up a healthy Vietnamese tofu or teriyaki tempeh sandwich for sustenance before heading off on a hike. Become an Expedia+ member and book your summer holiday — you'll have access to prices that others don't see.
By now, it feels like no stone has been unturned by Sydney's big developers. But you know where they haven't developed yet? Underground. So perhaps that's why the NSW Government has set its sights below street level — today it announced its plans to turn the St James tunnels, a large subterranean space that adjoins St James Station, into an underground attraction. The tunnel is, after all, just sitting there. It was built back in the 1920s as part of a plan to connect the CBD with eastern suburbs, but the project was never realised. Since then, it's been used as an air raid shelter during World War II, an operations bunker for the air force and as a location for The Matrix Revolutions. Tours used to run, but now there's no way for the public to access the tunnels. The NSW Government is opening this one up to the floor, and is seeking expressions of interest from both local and international developers. Ideally, it would like something that would turn the tunnel and its platform into a "world-renowned attraction" — perhaps restaurants, bars, shops, or cultural and entertainment spaces. "Spaces like the St James tunnel are rare," said Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance in a statement today. "Around the world, hidden spaces are being converted into unique experiences and we want St James Station to be part of that." Expressions of interest will close November 6 — after they've been received, the process will be managed by Sydney Trains and real estate company CBRE. We'll keep you updated on the next stage of the process.
Get ready to ring in 2019 with Cruise Bar's huge New Year's Eve event. It's no secret that Sydney loves to put on a show and you'll be in one of the best spots for it, with a prime harbourside view of both fireworks shows and the Opera House. From $99 per person, you will receive a glass of sparkling on arrival and access to levels one and two. Or, if you want to splash out for the special night, you can opt for the VIP package (from $389 per person) which features three hours of food and beverages including free-flowing Pol Roger NV Champagne on Cruise Bar's glorious rooftop. You'll also get access to all three levels across the evening so you can scope out the best vantage point for the fireworks display. Plus, DJ duo Stafford Brothers will be on deck to provide your soundtrack for this epic farewell to 2018. Spots are filling up fast for this end-of-the-year bash. To nab your spot, head to Cruise Bar's website.
Artist Antony Youssef's latest immersive artwork is here for a good time, but not a long time. Otherworldly installation Breach has arrived at Babekuhl's basement gallery, transforming the subterranean space into a technology-driven, interactive dream realm filled with smoke, light and sound. Though you'll have to be quick to score a taste of the alternate reality, as it's set to disappear after this Sunday, April 25. To access the multi-sensory installation, venture down the gallery's stairs and along a boardwalk surrounded by haze. Then, you'll find yourself right in the heart of the artwork itself, where you'll play conductor — by using your hands to control Breach's central pressurised sphere of pulsating music and sound. It's a bit like playing some fantasy instrument from another planet. The piece uses Youssef's own custom software to track your hand movements, guiding the unique soundtrack of audio, synths and rhythms each visitor is able to create. A thick blanket of low-lying mist helps to elevate the experience, also upping the eeriness factor.
If it can happen in a pandemic, it can happen in any year. Yes, we're talking about Brisbane Festival. After 2020's event, which had to adjust to the new realities brought on by COVID-19, the annual celebration of arts and culture returns in 2021 — so mark Friday, September 3–Saturday, September 25 in your diary. Most of the 2021 program will be announced much closer to those September dates, as happens each time the festival rolls around. That said, you can expect everything from art, music and theatre to lights, lasers and interactive installations, plus whatever other weird, wonderful, unique and just brand new ideas and shows the fest's organisers and the talented artists they work with manage to come up with this year. If you'd like to get excited already, a few details have already been revealed — including the long-awaited world premiere of Boy Swallows Universe, which'll hit the Brisbane stage during Brisbane Festival. Also on the bill so far: Queensland's Finest, with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra showcasing top local talent; and Songs That Made Me, with singer-songwriter Jess Hitchcock crooning tunes. [caption id="attachment_793650" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Boy Swallows Universe, David Kelly[/caption] Top image: Brisbane Festival 2020, Atmosphere Photography.
With four glorious days off work, the Easter long weekend can go one of two ways. Some of us use it as an opportunity to get out-of-town for a relaxing weekend away, devoid of the hustle and bustle of day-to-day Sydney. Others? We dive headfirst into what this city has to offer, partying each night away knowing there's a few extra days to recover before you return to work. Marly Bar is facilitating the latter with a huge four-day program of parties taking over the venue. The whole thing kicks off with two events on Thursday, April 14. There's Breko's popular Music Bingo featuring DJ sets, prizes and free drinks for those that can flex their musical knowledge; and there's Reverb, a new weekly techno and house night taking over Marly's underground dance floor Tokyo Sing Song. Elsewhere across the weekend you'll find free live sets from Lady King and Ange on the Friday, two stacked hip-hop lineups, a late-night dance party from the Picnic crew, and a full venue takeover on Easter Sunday featuring some of Sydney's most exciting up-and-coming musicians and DJs. Hip-hop fans are spoilt for choice on Saturday, with influential group Bodega Collective popping up with their Pass the Mic series downstairs, and the team behind Parramatta Nights curating a lineup of western Sydney hip-hop upstairs featuring breakout drill star Kahukx alongside Big Skeez, Lil Spacely, Shely210 and many more. Many of the events are free, with tickets to Picnic's One Night Stand and the Easter Sunday party available online.
Dear Sainte Eloise wants you to end your year with good omens for 2023 by filling the last night of the year with great food and wine. The Potts Point restaurant is hosting a huge New Year's party — with two different ways to experience the night's festivities. The first is a seafood-heavy ten-dish set menu that will set you back $165 per person. Included in what will be your final feast for 2022 will be Sydney rock oysters, sea urchin crostinis, caviar tarts with tuna crudo, burrata with brunch peach and raw lamb with anchovy cream. This selection of inventive starters will all build up to a Jack's Creek sirloin which will act as the main centrepiece of the menu, served with horseradish butter and crispy potatoes. For dessert, diners will be treated to a dark chocolate and raspberry tart. [caption id="attachment_882872" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dexter Kim[/caption] While drinks aren't included, you can pre-order a glass of champagne on arrival and there will be ten different varieties of wine available by the magnum on the night. Bookings for the dinner service are available from 3–8.30pm, before this portion of the evening will wrap up at 11pm. From there, the restaurant's doors will open to walk-ins. Anyone looking to toast to the new year with top-notch wine can arrive between 11pm and midnight. The bar staff will be marking the occasion with more magnums and some special rare wines including a skinsy Gruner Veltliner from local producer Gut Oggau, and golden Nosiola and 'L'Anodine' Grenache wines from Italy's Elisabetta Foradori. The party will kick on for both diners and walk-ins until 2am. [caption id="attachment_882873" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dexter Kim[/caption] Top images: Nikki To
UPDATE, February 28, 2021: Rocketman is available to stream via Netflix, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube, iTunes and Amazon Video. "It's obviously not all true, but it's the truth," says Elton John about Rocketman. Trust the British superstar to sum up his own lively, dreamlike musical biopic perfectly. Cinematic celebrations of beloved singers and bands often aim for little more than supremely skilled impersonations, toe-tapping greatest-hits soundtracks and broad rags-to-riches overviews; indeed, it's an approach that won Bohemian Rhapsody several Oscars. But there's a vibrant spark to Rocketman as it charts Reginald Dwight's transformation into Elton Hercules John. A glorious tone, too, which couldn't work better. Showing how fantastical the ups and downs of fame, fortune and rock stardom can be by sashaying through a sea of surreality, the result is a winning marriage of form and feeling. Bursting into a support group wearing wings, horns and a blazing orange devil costume in the movie's opening moments, an 80s-era John (Taron Egerton) lays bare his sins. He's an alcoholic, cocaine addict, sex addict, bulimic, shopaholic, fond of prescription drugs, dabbles with marijuana and, if that's not enough, he also has anger management issues. That's Rocketman's warts-and-all baseline — the unflinching description of its protagonist at his lowest point, in his own words. Of course, we all already know how things turn out, but the film spends its two-hour running time unpacking and explaining John's troubles. Two intersecting threads come into focus: his ascent to the top of the music world, and his simultaneous descent into depression, frustration and loneliness. From his therapy circle, John follows his younger self (Matthew Illesley) to his childhood home, with the singer stepping through his unhappy formative years as the son of bitter, bickering parents (Bryce Dallas Howard and Steven Mackintosh). When his talent for tunes starts shining brightly, the biopic traces his long quest for success, including teaming up with lyricist Bernie Taupin (a well-cast Jamie Bell), who becomes a lifelong friend. After a 1970 trip to the US shoots John into the music stratosphere, the film watches as he rockets higher and higher, chronicling the hits, glitz, raucous parties and romantic dramas — complete with his first proper romance, with his manager John Reid (Richard Madden). But what goes up must come down, with the movie charting John's personal crashes as well. Story-wise, so far, so standard. The familiar superstar origin tale and cliched sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll trajectory don't dissipate. But from the moment that John breaks into song while recounting his woes, then dances and sings his way along a visibly desaturated 50s suburban London street with the childhood Reggie by his side, Rocketman thoroughly eschews the standard approach. Biographical details guide the narrative as expected, with the film stringing together a timeline that spreads over four decades, however it's emotion that drives every scene in Lee Hall's (Victoria & Abdul) screenplay. As proved the case in Hall and John's first collaboration on Billy Elliott the Musical, blending sentiment and song couldn't be more pivotal, poignant or important. Nor could Rocketman's core creative decision, because this isn't just a music biopic. It's unashamedly a musical biopic, and those extra couple of letters make a significant difference. With structure and staging that brings Hugh Jackman's Peter Allen musical The Boy From Oz to mind — not to mention a standout central performance — Rocketman is presented with razzle-dazzle showmanship that could easily see the movie adapted into a live production. Sequins, glitter, shiny platform shoes, oversized glasses and over-the-top outfits have long been part of John's public persona, and it's that theatricality that director Dexter Fletcher draws upon. That said, he's not simply fashioning the film after John's flamboyant attire. The intention, and one that comes to life with as much deep-seated feeling as eye-catching flashiness, is to convey John's true inner state rather than slavishly sticking to the truth. How better to show how young Reggie saw music as an escape from his difficult upbringing than to make his success seem like a dream? To demonstrate just how electrifying and unreal John's breakout gig felt than to literally depict him and the heaving crowd floating in the air? From the song-and-dance highs of finally making it, to the boozy, woozy, literally sinking lows of feeling all alone when the world is at his feet, the list of vivid and expressive examples goes on. Not only set to all of the expected tracks, but using them to plot an engaging emotional journey, the final product takes more cues from Fletcher's last two official directorial credits — on the upbeat Proclaimers jukebox musical Sunshine on Leith, as well as the Egerton-starring sports biopic Eddie the Eagle — than his uncredited job taking over for the fired Bryan Singer on Bohemian Rhapsody. Without an ounce of surprise, Rocketman is all the better for it, even when it makes crowd-pleasing moves with some of its song choices, and doesn't dive as deep into its narrative and themes as it perhaps could. Still, the two biopics share a crucial element, apart from the obvious. It's unlikely that the Oscars will award two actors for portraying real-life stars two years in a row, but Egerton puts in a thrilling, multifaceted performance worthy of ample recognition. He's a candle in the wind and defiantly still standing, all while singing John's songs himself and soaring across this rousing movie. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTm5DWgL-MU
Think digital media is all about working on beanbags and not running work past your editor? Not true! (Okay, sometimes.) Come intern at Concrete Playground and learn the real ins and outs of producing arts, culture, food and lifestyle editorial in a fun and fast-paced online environment. We're currently looking for interns in Sydney to work with the team in our Redfern office one day per week. You will need to demonstrate excellent writing skills as well as a love of and engagement with Sydney's cultural life. Expressions of interest should be addressed to editor Rima Sabina Aouf at contribute@concreteplayground.com.au. Include a CV and 2-3 samples of your written work. Image from House of Cards. Does not resemble real life, where you'll have a desk, a real true desk.
Phone or tablet? If that's a question that you've ever asked yourself, Samsung now has the answer. This week, the company unveiled the prototype for its new foldable smartphone, confirming one of the biggest rumours in the technology game. At the Samsung Developer Conference in San Francisco on November 7–8, the company revealed a device that's clearly still in development, but combines the best of both worlds when it comes to regular-sized touchscreen phones and their larger siblings, aka tablets. The handset boasts a new interface and display that enables it to both function as the former and fold out to become the latter — for those times when you just need a bigger screen, we guess. The interface is called One UI and is designed for one-handed use, anchoring the most relevant information to the bottom of the screen. As for the Infinity Flex Display, as well as being able to fold in the middle, it will also move whatever you're looking at from its smaller size to its larger size as you unfold the phone. In what might be one of the biggest drawcards, it'll support simultaneous app use when the larger display is used, thanks to functionality Samsung has dubbed Multi Active Window. Yes, this means that you can have three things open and active at the same time. Design-wise, the device uses one single screen that is foldable down the centre like a book, instead of flipping from the top like the clamshell handsets that have long defined the way we all think about flip phones. Other details are scarce — this was Samsung's first real teaser that the new foldable format is definitely in the works, rather than an actual product launch. It's not the first time that the company has mentioned the device. Speaking with CNBC earlier in the year, IT and mobile communications division CEO DJ Koh noted that more details would be revealed at SDC — although clearly we'll all have to keep waiting for in-depth specifications, and even information such as a name, release date and price. Contrary to how the device might seem at present, Koh also noted that it won't just be a tablet in a more compact form. Images: Samsung.
Sydneysiders love a bottomless brunch, and whether you're looking for a classy breakfast fair or a pile of golden-brown chicken with your choice of drinks, you can find it in this city. Darling Square's Wingboy is facilitating a truly wild weekend affair with its new bottomless wing and drinks deal that's available Friday–Sunday. Head to the inner-city spot for all-you-can-eat wings, chicken tenders of cauliflower wings coated in your choices of the ten different sauces available at the restaurant. At Wingboy, the wings can be coated in a wide variety of saucy rubs and marinades ranging from spicy peri peri dry rub or honey Sriracha through to sweet and sour plum or a classic buffalo. Accompanying the wings will be fries, slaw and two-hours of free-flowing drinks. Pair your crispy-skin chicken with bottomless beer, wine or soft drink. The bottomless is available for groups of four or more and will set back each member of your group $70. To organise a reservation, just mention 'Bottomless' in the notes section of your booking when you secure a table online.
Easter in 2020 is going to look a whole lot different. With social distancing and public gathering rules in place across the country, we can't skip town to our favourite holiday spot or even go round to a mate's place for a hot cross bun breakfast. But, joining the Easter Bunny this year to spice up this long weekend is another famous figure: The Colonel. For the first time Down Under, KFC is offering free home delivery on orders over $30 via Menulog. So, round up your housemates for a weekend of eleven secret herbs and spices. The limited-time offer is available nationwide and kicks off on Thursday, April 9. To get your hands on some finger lickin' good chook with no extra cost, head to Menulog's website or use the Menulog app and enter KFCatHOME at checkout. And while you're food is on its way, you can meditate with KFChill, a wellness website that lets you unwind to the sound of chicken frying, gravy simmering or bacon sizzling away in a pan. Yes, it'll make you hungry. While you can't road trip to the world's first drive-thru-only KFC or marry your loved at the famed chicken chain this Easter, free delivery on a Family Feast, Mates Burger Box or Party Starter is sure to lift your spirits. Plus, Popcorn Chicken is a pretty good snack for when you're binging Tiger King or streaming this year's Oscar-winning flick. KFC is offering free delivery across Australia on orders over $30 via Menulog and is available from Thursday, April 9 for a limited time only. To order, head here and enter KFCatHOME at checkout.
It's happening again. If you're fond of staring at the heavens with your own two eyes to see a stunning sight, you'll want to spend Thursday, October 17, 2024 looking up. Another supermoon is upon us, with the best time to see it arriving after sunset Down Under — so if you train your peepers upwards this evening, you'll be in for a glowing show. While super full moons aren't particularly rare — several usually happen each year, and one occurred in August 2024 as well as in September — there's still a a good reason to peer upwards this time around. If you're wondering why, we've run through the details below. [caption id="attachment_598533" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Andrew C via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] What Is It? If you're more familiar with The Mighty Boosh's take on the moon than actual lunar terms, here's what you need to know. As we all learned back in November 2016, a supermoon is a new moon or full moon that occurs when the moon reaches the closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, making it particularly bright. They're not all that uncommon — and because October 2024's supermoon is a full moon (and not a new moon), it's called a super full moon. It's also a hunter's moon, too, which refers to the time of year in the northern hemisphere. This is the time when hunting was undertaken to store meat for the coming winter in the other half of the world. Of course, that doesn't apply in the southern hemisphere, but the name still sticks. This supermoon is also the closest of 2024 — which makes it the brightest of 2024, too. [caption id="attachment_769713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NASA/Joel Kowsky[/caption] When Can I See It? As mentioned above, your best time to look at the harvest supermoon is from sunset on Thursday, October 17, 2024, although it'll officially be a full moon at 10.26pm AEDT in Sydney and Melbourne, 9.26pm AEST in Brisbane, 9.56pm ACDT in Adelaide and 7.26pm AWST in Perth. The moon always appears full for a few days, however, so if you already thought that the night sky looked a little brighter this week, that's why. To catch a glimpse, you'll want to peek outside when it gets dark to feast your eyes on a luminous lunar sight. Head over to timeanddate.com for the relevant moonrise and moonset times for your area. Where Can I See It? You can take a gander from your backyard or balcony, but the standard advice regarding looking into the night sky always applies — so city-dwellers will want to get as far away from light pollution as possible to get the absolute best view. Sunset arrives at 7.10pm AEDT in Sydney, 7.39pm AEDT in Melbourne, 5.56pm AEST in Brisbane, 7.31pm ACDT in Adelaide and 6.29pm AWST in Perth Via timeanddate.com. Image: Elekes Andor via Wikimedia Commons.
Twilight at Taronga — the after-hours live music series that boasts arguably the best view of Sydney Harbour, as well as lots of adorable animals — has proven it's got some real cred when it comes to hosting outdoor gigs. Past lineups have featured the likes of The Jezabels, Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile, Mavis Staples, Paul Kelly and Wolfmother, and, from the looks of things, its 2023 series will be just as epic. Held in Taronga Zoo's natural amphitheatre, the next batch of shows will run from Friday, February 10–Saturday, March 11, 2023. And we've got some real humdingers to look forward to, including Daryl Braithwaite breaking out 'The Horses', plus fellow homegrown stars Kate Miller-Heidke, The Church, The Living End, Xavier Rudd, Kasey Chambers and Busy Marou. ABBA parody/tribute Bjorn Again will also hit the stage, as will James Morrison running through the 'A–Z of Jazz'. And, a big drag gala will bring together Karen From Finance, Kita Mean, Spankie Jackzon, Carla From Bankstown, Elektra Shock and more, all for Sydney WorldPride — while a comedy gala will feature Nazeem Hussain, Melanie Bracewell, Anne Edmonds, Lloyd Langford, Claire Hooper and Danielle Walker. You can BYO a picnic, but there'll also be gourmet hampers available onsite alongside a handful of food trucks. Ticketholders can also purchase discounted same-day entry into the zoo (so you can sneak in a visit to your favourite mammal, bird or reptile beforehand) and, if you want to make a weekend of it, you can add on a night at Taronga's luxe eco-retreat. As always, all proceeds will go back into Taronga's ongoing conservation work, including its campaign to protect our marine life. So, you can see a gig and feel good about helping the zoo. Get excited and check out the full lineup: [caption id="attachment_745448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taronga Zoo Wildlife Retreat[/caption] TWILIGHT AT TARONGA 2023 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LINEUP: Friday, February 10 — The Living End Saturday, February 11, 10am — Justine Clark Saturday, February 11, 6pm — Bjorn Again Saturday, February 18 — Xavier Rudd Friday, February 24 — The Church Saturday, February 25 — James Morrison's A–Z of Jazz Thursday, March 2 — Drag gala featuring Karen From Finance, Kita Mean, Spankie Jackzon, Carla From Bankstown, Elektra Shock and more Friday, March 3 — Daryl Braithwaite Saturday, March 4, 10am — Teen Tiny Stevies Saturday, March 4, 6pm — Comedy gala featuring Nazeem Hussain, Melanie Bracewell, Anne Edmonds, Lloyd Langford, Claire Hooper, Danielle Walker and more Friday, March 10 — Kate Miller-Heidke Saturday, March 11 — Kasey Chambers and Busy Marou Tickets for Twilight at Taronga 2023 Summer Concert Series go on sale at 12pm AEDT on Thursday, November 3 via twilightattaronga.org.au, with Twilight at Taronga member pre-sales from 12pm AEDT on Tuesday, November 1.
If you're a garlic girlie, then you should make your way to the fresh eatery Birdie Bar and Brasserie located in the foyer of the recently opened Novotel City Centre on York Street. The new spot boasts a fusion of British and modern Australian fare on its menu that champions local produce and celebrates Aussie fauna of the feathered variety. The charming space has an avian theme throughout, from its colourful wallpaper and nest lampshades to its cocktail list. British Head Chef John Lyons is at the helm of the kitchen. Lyons cut his teeth working in Michelin-starred and AA Rosettes-earning establishments back in the UK, and now he's here to put his own stamp on Sydney's hospo scene with a menu best described as playful with plenty of British elements, and with local suppliers and producers championed throughout. Some menu items that exemplify this philosophy are the Fremantle octopus with koji sourced from Keiko Ikeda in Bondi and the black sesame dessert, which is a take on a classic British sponge cake and includes the rare citrus fruit poorman's orange. And it wouldn't be a British spot without Sunday roast with all the trimmings, including the mandatory Yorkshire puddings and lashings of gravy. You can tell Lyons and his team are having a lot of fun with this menu, with entrées like The Duck — duck liver parfait shaped into two little duckies — and the cheeky The Bird — bumps of caviar Paris with shots of Grey Goose vodka in wooden shot cups and a polaroid snap of you and your dining guest. Don't leave without trying the garlic bread that does not skimp on the butter, garlic or bread — lots of texture and plenty of garlic flavour. The mains don't skimp on flavour either, with options like the equally garlic-forward allium risotto with comte and chervil, the massive one-kilogram t-bone steak with a side of house-made mustard (of course), and smoked ocean trout with cucumber and horseradish. The fun continues on the dessert menu with the not-so-appetisingly named Dogs Dinner, which literally comes plated in a dog's bowl and features chocolate "kibble", mini biscuits, moose and nuts with an oat biscuit in the shape of a bone. If you can't decide on your mains, there is a chef's choice menu called 'Canary in a Coal Mine' — a minimum of four people required — that features eight plates to share from the mains sides and desserts. The portions are big, so you definitely won't be going hungry for days. You can level up this chef's choice with a pairing for four sips for $30 per person. The drinks menu takes the venue's theme to a new level, each inspired by an Aussie native bird. There's the Sulpher-Crested Cockatoo, with gin lemon, meringue foam, and shortbread crumble; the Satin Bowerbird, with Irish whiskey, lemon, blackberry and hibiscus; and the Galah, with strawberry gin, guava liqueur and sparkling rosé. Each cocktail comes with a cute description of the beverage, with the bird theme extending into these stories. The wine list includes drops from across Australia, Europe and South America, while the beers include Birdie's very own lager and bevs from local breweries Young Henrys, Atomic Brewery and Lord Nelson.
Italy's Cesare Marchese, aka Cesare vs Disorder brings his own brand of groove-laden techno to Goodgod Small Club this Saturday, on behalf of Subsonic and Techno Tuesday. Marchese, a resident DJ at infamous Berlin club Kater Holzig, is joined by sultry Brazilian DJ Anna Leevia, who has been making a name for herself spinning at Berlin hotspots Club Der Visionäre and the late Bar25. Since his debut performance in Australia at the ‘09 Subsonic Music Festival, Cesare's club credentials have sky-rocketed thanks to his tracks being released on labels like Vakant and having featured on mixes from techno-luminaries such as Sven Vath, Konrad Black and Damian Lazarus. There’s never been a better time to become acquainted with Cesare — not only is he on the cusp of releasing an EP with Inxec, Konrad Black and Cesar Merveille, he is also reportedly set to unleash his debut artist album mid-2012. Marchese and Leevia are joined by Glitch DJs, MSG and seductive microhouse entrepreneur Chris Honnery. The party kicks off at 10pm and, in true Goodgod fashion, runs till the wee hours. $15 presale tickets are available through Resident Advisor.
If the idea of health-conscious eating conjures up images of boiled vegetables, soggy tofu or a cut-everything-that-actually-tastes-good-out diet, you're doing it all wrong. In a city like Sydney, where a slew of restaurants are dishing up wholesome food in innovative, delicious ways, healthy eating is honestly as easy as (gluten-free) pie. That's good news for those among us who want to treat our bodies right without having to go through the hell of detoxes or cleanses. Yes, our bodies are our temples, but that doesn't have to mean days of exclusively ingesting kale smoothies. To help get you started, we've teamed up with American Express to pick out the best spots to go when you want a healthy feed with zero compromises on flavour. Whether you're looking for a new vegan spot or a place more suited to the healthy carnivore, we've got the place for you. From premier farm-to-table eating to some of Sydney's best sushi, these eateries make grabbing a healthy meal a total breeze. Grab your Amex and kiss that cleanse goodbye. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
From its awe-inspiring scenery to its hefty brew tours and the 200 sprawling wineries that call it home, the Margaret River region has become one of Australia's top destinations for those looking to escape the city in style. Situated about three hours from Perth, this bustling coastal setting offers surf beaches, lush forests and ancient underground cave systems all in one spot — which is especially exciting if you're looking for a bit of variety on a weekend trip this winter. With a landscape as diverse as this, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Margaret River is also home to incredible outdoor experiences that are ready and waiting for you to enjoy. There's a lot to choose from, but who doesn't love being spoilt for choice? To help, we've put our heads together with Virgin Australia to come up with the very best activities to make your getaway unforgettable. There'll be wine. There'll be beaches. And, of course, there'll be adventures. [caption id="attachment_719648" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Phil Whitehouse via Flickr[/caption] EXPLORE THE LIMESTONE CAVES OF LEEUWIN NATURALISTE RIDGE When you're viewing it from ground level, the Margaret River region is rather spectacular — but heading underground also reveals incredible sights. Formed around a million years ago, there are over 100 limestone caves throughout Margaret River. They're considered some of the most extraordinary in Australia. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge is where you'll find many of them, with this expansive system featuring alluring crystal formations aplenty. Across a variety of guided and self-led tours, you can follow staircases and boardwalks that'll take you right into the depths of the earth. And if you only have time to visit a select few caves, don't miss your chance to see Lake Cave's imposing entrance or Jewel Cave, with its collection of stalactites that are over five metres tall. ABSEIL DOWN THE SEASIDE CLIFFS WITH MARGARET RIVER CLIMBING CO Rising 40 metres above the Indian Ocean, the Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs are among the most picturesque in the Margaret River region, stretching along the rugged coastline for a half-kilometre. If you enjoy a bit of death-defying action to go with your holiday, hook yourself into these towering red granite cliffs with the Margaret River Climbing Co — and step off the edge as you abseil your way down the sheer rock face. There's no need to worry if it's your first time. There are plenty of sections that are suitable for beginners, while experienced abseilers will still find a difficult challenge. Hanging from the cliff face presents you with pretty unbeatable ocean views, naturally. Our tip: keep an eye out for the pods of whales and dolphins that are often seen swimming amid these coastal currents. TREK THE CAPE NATURALISTE TO SUGARLOAF ROCK WALK The Cape to Cape Track is one of the most impressive treks you can complete in the Margaret River region. While you'll likely be a little busy indulging in the local food and wine to make the entire 140-kilometre journey, the Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock section offers a pleasant introduction to the outstanding landscape. Setting off from the popular Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, this relaxing three-and-a-half-kilometre stretch will have you stepping along a mix of gentle walking paths and timber boardwalks as you soak up the peaceful coastal views. To get the ideal experience, aim to reach Sugarloaf Rock just as the sun begins to set. Sitting just off the coastline in the Indian Ocean, this majestic rock formation is lit up daily by quite the striking colours as the sun dips below the horizon. TAKE A SUNSET CANOE RIDE ALONG THE MARGARET RIVER Sticking with the sunset theme, the Sunset Canoe Tour is your chance to float down Margaret River in complete serenity as the day draws to a close. You'll drift upstream flanked by wildflowers and forest — and it won't be long before you spy soaring limestone cliffs. Next, you'll watch as the late afternoon light sets the rock faces alight with a radiant glow, before continuing onwards in search of a secluded beachfront. Once you hit the sand, listen out for the chorus created by the local wildlife. It'll provide the perfect soundtrack as you rest on the beach with a glass of wine, a delicious canapé and a view of the last light as it disappears over the Indian Ocean. SEE THE REGION FROM ABOVE DURING A SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT Make the most of your time by getting high above the Margaret River with a scenic helicopter ride. This part of the world provides a wealth of amazing natural wonders, so why not encounter the vast ocean and coastal landscape from the air? From farmland to forests to golden brown cliffs, you'll also hover above the boutique wineries and their seemingly endless rows of grapes — the ones that have helped put Margaret River on the map. Among the highlights, you'll also get to see Rivermouth, Surfer's Point, the Ellenbrook House and Cape Mentelle Vineyards, one of the oldest and most attractive wineries in all of Margaret River. If you're now eagerly planning a visit to Margaret River, check out Virgin Australia's holiday packages — which offer everything from chilled-out cottages to massive resorts.
There are your regular neighbourhood delis and butchers — and then there is Bexley North's German Butchery Deli & Cafe. This place stocks everything you'd expect from a German butchery and deli, from cold cuts, sausage links (yes, including bratwurst) and pâté to traditional German smallgoods and bread. If you've got a craving for a particular German delight, perhaps while reminiscing about that trip you took a few years back or reconnecting with old family traditions, this shop should have it. You'll find knödel (potato or bread boiled dumplings), sauerkraut, gherkins and, of course, salt pretzels. You may also stumble across some products that are common on European supermarket shelves, but not so much here, including curry ketchup, Austrian Almdudler herbal lemonade and Czech Kitl flavoured syrups. Planning a party? The team here can put together platters that'll set you back as little as $8 a head, too. Image: Trent van der Jagt.
