Matt Moran's Sydney waterfront domination is nigh. Just one of a host of recently announced dining precinct plans for the billion-dollar Barangaroo waterfront, the leading Australian chef has announced he will create a three-level dining experience with business partner Peter Sullivan, along with Bruce and Anna Solomon of Solotel. The formidable MorSul/Solotel foursome, who have previously teamed up to deliver ARIA Sydney, ARIA Brisbane, CHISWICK and North Bondi Fish, make up the dream team who just recently landed the tender to revamp Opera Bar — set for a brand new fitout and Moran-created menu by the end of 2014. Now, they're the very first major retail tenants announced for Barangaroo. Moran's three-level Barangaroo offering is set to open in early 2018. Designed by Sydney architects Collins and Turner, the epic new establishment will resemble a series of stacked shallow bowls or varying sizes — glorifying your everyday kitchen essentials in a colossal waterfront palace. Moran's pet project will sit at Barangaroo's southern end, marking a grand entrance point for the waterfront dining precinct. Set to be one of Australia's most concentrated food hubs, Barangaroo was naturally going to attract big name chefs like Moran to join the party. The celebrity chef says the area's location was the deciding factor for the new venture. "When we were first approached by Lend Lease about joining the precinct, it was the location of the site which was key in our decision making," says Moran. "We intend to deliver a truly Australian experience at this world-class waterfront venue. Whether you are looking for a casual bar and restaurant, a more premium restaurant or a rooftop garden bar, we will have it all with our offering at Barangaroo and use only the best locally sourced produce to create a showpiece of Sydney dining." Moran is a pretty big pull for Lend Lease, developer for Barangaroo South. "Matt Moran is an iconic Australian restaurateur who has consistently delivered some of Australia's best restaurants and venues," says head of retail development and asset management, Gary Horwitz. "We are thrilled to include Barangaroo to his list of accomplishments and we have no doubt the MorSul and Solotel team will deliver something truly special that Sydney has not seen before at a harbourside dining precinct." Matt Moran's yet-to-be-named Barangaroo establishment will open in 2018. Check out the rest of the food hub plans over here.
We've made it to the end of the year, and to celebrate, Falls Festival has just gifted us with one helluva lineup. Helping to ring in the art and music festival's 26th year is a pretty buzzworthy gang of musical mates headlined by American rapper Anderson .Paak. He'll be taking the stage with his band The Free Nationals, and performing hits off his Grammy Award-nominated album Malibu and maybe a tune or two off his highly anticipated third album, Oxnard Ventura. He's joined on the bill by big names like UK foursome Catfish and The Bottlemen, who'll be debuting some fresh new material at their only Aussie show; Australia's own Vance Joy; Scottish synth-pop trio Chvrches, who'll also be here for NYD celebration Field Day; Interpol, fresh off the back of their new album release, Marauder; and Toto. Toto. Yes, the American rock band behind the masterpiece that is 'Africa' is heading to Falls. While you're feeling nostalgic, you'll also be able to hit up Hilltop Hoods — call dad. True to form, the Falls 2018 local lineup is equally exciting, and every bit as broad. Homegrown acts hitting the stage include the dance-ready Flight Facilities, Melbourne's psychedelic King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Sydney producer Touch Sensitive, Gold Coast native Amy Shark and Heaps Gay DJs & Friends back for another year. This year, too, an impressive 48 percent of acts performing have female artists and, while it's not quite half — and there are still lots of other minority groups that are underrepresented — it's a start. As always, the tunes are backed by a colourful curation of art events, performances, pop-ups, markets, wellness sessions and gourmet eats. It's all happening over New Years at the usual spots in Tassie's Marion Bay, Lorne in Victoria, the North Byron Parklands and the Fremantle Oval Precinct, WA. FALLS FESTIVAL 2018 LINEUP Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals Catfish and The Bottlemen (no sideshows) Vance Joy Chvrches Hilltop Hoods Toto Interpol 88Rising Feat. Rich Brian, Joji, Niki & August 08 (no sideshows) Flight Facilities Amy Shark DMA's Kind Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard Golden Features First Aid Kit (no sideshows) Ocean Alley Hockey Dad Cashmere Cat (no sideshows) The Vaccines Cub Sport Ruel Jack River Bishop Briggs Mallrat Briggs Touch Sensitive Tkay Maidza Dermot Kennedy Tired Lion Hobo Johnson & The Lovemakers Soccer Mommy Banks Triple One Alice Skye Heaps Gay DJs & Friends + More to be announced
If pale pink suits, burgundy striped blazers and shiny gold cufflinks don't sound truly fabulous, then think again, because they totally are. Double Academy Award-winning designer Catherine Martin has created an authentic 1920s style costume collection for Baz Luhrmann's film adaptation of The Great Gatsby — as well as a dapper consumer line that you can own a piece (or two or twenty) of. Martin teamed up with America's oldest clothier, Brooks Brothers, in a unique collaboration to produce the 500+ outstanding men's costumes that will surely be a highlight of the film. Writer of The Great Gatsby F. Scott Fitzgerald was a lifelong Brooks Brothers customer, so it only made sense that the filmmakers would team up with the clothing company to create an attractive and authentic line, something that Fitzgerald would approve of. On the Brooks Brothers website Martin says, "It was the most basic and fundamental connection that has made our collaboration so authentic." The main inspiration for the collection came right from the Brooks Brothers archives. Martin rummaged through the extensive archives and found incredible designs that typified classic 1920s style. Since the designs were inspired by real 1920s clothing, they do a great job of adding period-specific authenticity and really bring the film to life. The best part? Brooks Brothers has adapted the costumes into an exclusive collection, including both formalwear and daywear, that is now being sold in stores and online. Below are some of the (gorgeous) items that are being showcased and sold on the Brooks Brothers website.
When Game of Thrones came to an end, HBO filled that gap by making prequel House of the Dragon, and also exploring a heap more spinoffs as well. Plenty have been rumoured, including focusing on Jon Snow and devoting a second new series to the Targaryens — but A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight is the next to get the official go-ahead. The American cable network and source of plenty of Binge, Foxtel and Neon's programming Down Under is announcement mode, revealing that it's renaming its own streaming service from HBO Max to Max — a platform that isn't available in Australia or New Zealand as yet — and also dropping details about a range of new shows that folks can look forward to watching on it. We hope you like TV versions of hit movies, too, because HBO's upcoming slate goes big on well-known properties. Harry Potter, The Conjuring, IT, The Batman: they're all covered in one way or another. A century before @GameofThrones, there was Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg. Executive produced by George R. R. Martin, Ira Parker, Ryan Condal, and Vince Gerardis, A Knight of the #SevenKingdoms: The Hedge Knight has received a straight to series order. #StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/MRPUke5Upt — HBO Max (@hbomax) April 12, 2023 A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight is a prequel, and will boast George RR Martin as a writer and executive producer. It comes to the screen from the novella series Tales of Dunk and Egg, and has been rumoured for a few years now. The story follows knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg as they wander Westeros a century before the events of GoT, when the Targaryens remain on the Iron Throne and everyone still remembers dragons. Yes, there's an odd-couple vibe. The first-ever Harry Potter TV series has also been whispered about for years, with that chatter getting louder recently. Bringing the Wizarding World to the small screen, it will run for a decade and cover all of the original books — a tome per season, diving into more detail than the movies were able to. Your Hogwarts letter is here. Max has ordered the first ever #HarryPotter scripted television series, a faithful adaptation of the iconic books. #StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/3CgEHLYhch — HBO Max (@hbomax) April 12, 2023 Newly revealed is a drama series set in The Conjuring universe — a supernatural big-screen realm that's already hefty, given that it spans The Conjuring, Annabelle, The Conjuring 2, Annabelle: Creation, The Nun, The Curse of the Weeping Woman, Annabelle Comes Home and The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, and will score The Nun 2 later in 2023. There's no word yet on what it'll cover, other than that it'll continue the story established in the features. Australian filmmaker James Wan, who helmed the first two The Conjuring movies, may executive produce. The American network is also making IT prequel series Welcome to Derry, which it announced earlier in 2023. Plus, it also has a spinoff from The Batman, aka The Penguin, on the way for its 2024 lineup — with Colin Farrell reprising the show's titular role. Welcome to Derry. Taylour Paige, Jovan Adepo, James Remar, and Chris Chalk have been cast to star in the Max Original Series and prequel to the IT films, coming in 2024 to Max. #WelcomeToDerry #ITSeries #ITMovie 🎈 #StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/wnX3YTIB21 — HBO Max (@hbomax) April 12, 2023 And, arriving in May, there's the animated Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, a prequel to the 80s movies that heads back to 1920s Shanghai and the Wing family's first meeting with Gizmo. Clearly, the answer to how HBO will cope with not just the OG Game of Thrones ending, but the looming post-Succession void, is leaning into other well-known properties. There's been no word of any spinoffs, prequels or sequels to the Roy family saga — even after its latest episode, and the fact that this is the acclaimed series' final season — however, based on the current announcements, don't be surprised if HBO gives it a try down the line. Most of the above HBO shows don't have exact release dates yet — we'll update you when further details are announced. Top image: courtesy of Max.
Tella all your friends, the Tella Balls Dessert Bar is finally here. Sydney's newest dessert bar is based on the popular theory that if you take anything at all and coat it in Nutella it instantly becomes, like, heaps better. Expect to find cronuts, doughnuts, gelato, crepes and waffles dipped, drizzled and injected with everyone's favourite choc hazelnut spread (sorry Nutino). Prepare to go nuts. Who would have thought that when Foodcraft Espresso & Bakery owners Aki Daikos and Simon Kappatos placed a Nutella doughnut atop a Nutella milkshake (with the hole through the straw, mind you) that their lives would change forever? Certainly not them. But after much chewing, slurping and Instagramming, the Tella Ball became an overnight sensation — the Kim Kardashian of the food world, if you will — and Aki and Simon planned a whole Nutella-themed wonderland to house their newly "world famous" Tella Balls. And now it's here. If you thought Nutella on toast was good, just wait until you try the Nutella lasagna ($14.90). Made with layers of chocolate mousse cake on a chocolate biscuit base, it manages to capture that light, fluffy mouthfeel of creamy béchamel; think Sara Lee chocolate cake combined with Danone chocolate custard, swirled together with the carefree culinary brilliance of a small child. Sweet baby Jesus. One of the most anticipated new creations at the Tella Balls Dessert Bar are the gelat-dough sticks ($7): frozen rings of doughnut flavoured gelato dipped in chocolate. Could they be as good as their punny name? Sure they can. They may look a little impractical, but the chocolate shell keeps the gelat-dough from melting brilliantly and the flavour is so rich and cookie-dough like, that they can hardly disappoint. However, like all good sugar spikes, after an exhilarating high, there's always a crash. A bowl of tiramisu ($13) has the same watered down taste as a cheap dessert from Aldi. The waffle burger ($20), which had huge potential for Instafame, came out looking like a hot mess. The overcooked/undercooked waffle (which is really hard to do, mind you) was drenched in melted gelato. It's a sad state of affairs when you find yourself picking out the fruit and leaving the rest. Eyeing off the display cabinet of cronuts, each one saturated in Nutella and caramel and topped with Kit Kats, M&M'S, Oreos, Maltesers and pretzels, it looks more like a 7-Eleven aisle than an artisanal dessert bar. Sure, a ten year would quickly deem this the best one in the whole world, but if you fancy fresh and daring flavour combinations, you're probably best to save the calorie count for later. There are dizzying highs and lows at the Tella Balls Dessert Bar — but choose wisely and you'll be covered in a sticky chocolate grin from ear to ear. Images: Bodhi Liggett.
Ever wanted to nom on Louis XIV? Feast on Emperor Jing Zong? Connoisseur ice cream have taken some royal cues with their brand new dessert line: the Connoisseur 'Empire Collection'. An epic thematic stretch (but a tasty-sounding one we can raise a spoon to), the collection is inspired by historical figures or 'tastemakers' who supposedly "had a connection to the very origins of ice cream," according to the Connoisseur team. Though the historic heavyweights' connection to ice cream is somewhat vague (and annoyingly they're all dudes), we're not ones to say nay to academic dessert. Kicking off the all-star historic lineup is Emperor Nero, embodied in coffee-flavoured ice cream (because Italy) littered with chocolate-coated hazelnuts and hazelnut liqueur. In between all that tyrannic ruling, fire-starting and attempting to assassinate his own mother, the Roman Emperor apparently used to have ice brought from the mountains and top it with fruit. What a decadent ass. Next up, King Louis XIV trots in with a French vanilla ice cream (der) with chocolate flakes and armagnac sauce worthy of Versailles. Iced desserts were served at the court of the 'Sun King', so he makes the cut. The origins of ice cream are sometimes credited to the Chinese Song Dynasty, leading to our next ice cream inspirer Emperor Jing Zong — realised as red bean and toasted coconut. Finally, King Cyrus of Persia gets his own iced confection, with pistachio ice cream swirled with cinnamon, honey and date sauce. The Persians have a strong connection to the history of ice cream; they'd apparently pour grape juice over snow, making a kind of ancient snow cone. Royally-inspired ice cream needs some pretty packaging, so Connoisseur have enlisted the help of Melbourne street artist Steve Cross. "It’s a tale of four men, connected by ice cream and I really wanted to bring them to life through the packaging and design to create something truly unique,” says Cross. "I was inspired both by the ingredients used and the historic figures with their rich back stories. It’s a great acknowledgment to history, bringing these legends alive today — a beautiful demonstration of the blending of two eras.” You can check out the four flavours in the freezer section at Coles and Woolies for your less-than-Ben and Jerry's price of $7.99. The Connoisseur team are also pushing the collection further, with a one-week exhibition at Blank Space in Surry Hills: The Empire Collection Pop-Up Gallery (September 17 - 22). Couldn't have thrown in one female figure, guys? Queens dig ice cream too.
'Have I got a story for you?' The uttering of this simple question is simultaneously charged with boundless potential, designed to pique interest and loaded with promise. Will the tale be hilarious, harrowing or just plain entertaining? This year, the Sydney Writers' Festival (the local wordsmith's answer to Glastonbury) has put grandiose, pompous conceptions of what truly great literature means aside to focus on the simple joy that can only be brought forth by a cracking yarn, plain and simple. Whether you're a book club aficionado who knows her Shakespeare from her Tolstoy or just a fan of The Breakfast Club, the dynamic program of events, released today, has something to make you lean in with anticipation. "Stories lie at the heart of our lives. We need them to understand ourselves, to understand others and to make sense of the world around us. In 2013 we look at the breadth of storytelling from Australia and around the world," explains Jemma Birrel, who debuts in her role as artistic director this year. Reckon you've heard it all before? Let the festival's astonishing stable of prominent orators, including Molly Ringwald, Naomi Wolf, William Dalrymple, Robert Green, Ruby Wax, Anita Desai, Archie Roach, Edward Rutherford, Hannah Kent, James Wood, Joe Rospars, Karl Ove Knausgaard, Kate Atkinson, Kate Mosse, Michael Sanders and Gillian Meares prove you wrong. These voices of our generation (minus Hannah Horvac of Girls, der) will wax lyrical on everything from the Future of Activism, to What Money Can't Buy and the question on everyone's, um, lips — I'm a Feminist, Can I Vajazzle? In a new addition to this year's program, a series of live storytelling events will see the likes of Claudia Karvan, Brendan Cowell, Jacqueline McKenzie and William McInnes hold court. Topics include personal passions and obsessions as told in 15-minute increments, true stories with the literally loco theme Lost the Plot and the sharing of specially written love letters by authors to their other halves in People of Letters. Gather round children, the Sydney Writers' Festival has a story for you. Images via Sydney Writers' Festival.
While cats aren't known for being overly affectionate, there are many ways you can show them love. You can have their face plastered across a mask (or a pair of swimmers), channel your inner Picasso and recreate them on a canvas, or just buy them a box — because if there's one thing cats like, it's a plain ol' box. Only one adorable cat can get immortalised in Lego, however. We're not talking about just sticking a few bricks together at home, either. Inspired by International Cat Day, Melbourne's Legoland Discovery Centre will build a life-size replica of one lucky cat. If you're already clearing a spot for your new Lego addition to the family — and wondering how your fluffball will react to their own likeness — you'll need to submit a photo of your cat on the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page, specifically to its competition post between now and 11.59pm on Tuesday, August 25. You'll also need to explain why your russian blue or ragdoll should get the Lego treatment, which shouldn't be hard. Serve up the best answer, and Master Model Builder Kieran Jiwa (yes, that's a real job) will recreate your cat with in tiny plastic bricks. Expect the final product to look a little like this: https://www.facebook.com/LEGOLANDDiscoveryCentreMelbourne/posts/1320438718159066 While the contest terms and conditions don't require entrants to live in Melbourne, the winner will need to head by in person to pick up their prize (restrictions allowing, of course). You'll also need to like the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page to enter, and include your pet's name, age, breed and one crazy fact about them with your submission. If your cat loves swimming, can dance or has learnt to play 'Chopsticks' on the piano, don't keep that detail to yourself. To enter the Lego Cat Competition, visit the Legoland Discovery Centre Facebook page before 11.59pm on Tuesday, August 25.
It was true of the first Dune film from Denis Villeneuve. It's been accurate of the Blade Runner 2049 and Arrival filmmaker's sci-fi spectacles in general. And it definitely applies to Dune: Part Two. That fact: that these movies look best on the big screen. But if you haven't had time to visit the cinema since Villeneuve's second trip to Arrakis arrived in February 2024, or you're keen to see it again on your couch, this Timothée Chalamet (Wonka)- and Zendaya (Euphoria)-starring sequel has now hit digital. Dune: Part Two is still showing in picture palaces. You just have options now when it comes to checking it out, such as streaming via YouTube Movies and Prime Video at home. Either way, you're in for oh-so-much sand, plus a continuation of Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049) adapting Frank Herbert's work, following in David Lynch's footsteps and managing what Alejandro Jodorowsky sadly couldn't (see: excellent documentary Jodorowsky's Dune). Villeneuve's debut Dune flick scored ten Oscar nominations and six wins (including an Academy Award for Australian cinematographer Greig Fraser); however, it only told part of Dune's story. So, Dune: Part Two keeps the tale going. War has arrived on the franchise's spice-laden planet, and Paul Atreides (Chalamet) and the Fremen are ready to fight. The former doesn't just want to face off against the folks who destroyed his family, but for the sandy celestial body, with Chani (Zendaya) at his side. In the prior flick, Paul had to head to Arrakis because his dad Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac, Moon Knight) had just been given stewardship of the planet and its abundance of 'the spice' — aka the most valuable substance in the universe — and then got caught up in a bitter feud with malicious forces over the substance. It also saw Paul meet the population of people known as the Fremen, including Chani, plus Javier Bardem's (Lyle, Lyle Crocodile) Stilgar, which is who he and his mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson, Silo) are with in Dune: Part Two. Expansive desert landscape, golden and orange hues (again, Villeneuve helmed Blade Runner 2049), sandworms, the director's reliable eye for a spectacle and Hans Zimmer's (The Son) latest likely Oscar-winning score: they're all accounted for again. So are fellow returning actors Josh Brolin (Outer Range), Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) and Charlotte Rampling (Benedetta). Among the new cast members, Austin Butler ditches his Elvis locks as Feyd Rautha Harkonnen, the nephew of Stellan Skarsgard's (Andor) Baron Harkonnen. Christopher Walken (Severance) and Florence Pugh (The Wonder) also join the saga as Emperor Shaddam IV and his daughter Princess Irulen — and Léa Seydoux (Crimes of the Future) is another newcomer. More Dune is on the way after this, too, with a third film locked in, even if it doesn't yet have a release date. Check out trailer for Dune: Part Two below: Dune: Part Two is still screening in Australian cinemas, and is also available to stream via YouTube Movies and Prime Video. Read our review and our interview with cinematographer Greig Fraser.
Love heading to a scenic spot to dance to live tunes? Adore sipping wine, too? Music and vino festival Grapevine Gathering understands. That pairing is this annual event's entire setup, with the fest bringing a heap of bands to vineyards around Australia each year. And for 2023, it has just locked in its October dates and venues. If you live in Queensland or South Australia, get ready to experience Grapevine Gathering on your home turf for a second time. After debuting in both states in 2022, the festival will return to Sirromet Wines at Mount Cotton and Serafino Wines in McLaren Vale. On a five-state tour, the rest of fest will also once again hit up Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Its destinations: Sandalford Wines in Swan Valley, Rochford Estate in the Yarra Valley and Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley, respectively. Victoria will play host to the first gig of the tour on Saturday, October 7, with Grapevine Gathering then pinballing up to Queensland on Sunday, October 8. The next weekend, it heads west on Saturday, October 14, then does NSW on Saturday, October 21 and SA on Sunday, October 22. At the moment, it's too early for the event's lineup, so watch this space. 2022's fests featured The Kooks, Peking Duk, The Veronicas, Ball Park Music, Confidence Man, Jack River and more. Before that, Two Door Cinema Club, Flight Facilities, The Wombats and Tkay Maidza have also graced Grapevine Gathering's stages. Naturally, sipping wine is a huge part of the attraction. As always, attendees will have access to a heap of vino given the fest's locations, as well as an array of yet-to-be-announced food options. GRAPEVINE GATHERING 2023 DATES: Saturday, October 7 — Rochford Estate, Victoria Sunday, October 8 — Sirromet Wines, Queensland Saturday, October 14 — Sandalford Wines, Western Australia Saturday, October 21 — Hope Estate, New South Wales Sunday, October 22 — Serafino Wines, South Australia Grapevine Gathering will tour Australia in October 2023. The lineup hasn't been announced yet, but we'll update you when it is. In the interim, you can head to the festival's website to register for further details when it hits. Images: Jordan Munns / Jess Gleeson.
Imagine if Ferris Bueller's Day Off was a horror movie, with the eponymous truant skipping class, flitting around Chicago and narrowly avoiding hordes of zombies that start shuffling around on the same day. Or, maybe Dirty Dancing could get the spooky treatment. No one puts Baby in the corner unless they need to help her combat a demon conjured up by the repressive reaction to all that fancy footwork, perhaps? We should probably stop listing these ideas, because Blumhouse Productions might end up making them a reality. Already, the film company has turned Groundhog Day into a horror flick via Happy Death Day and Happy Death Day 2U. It gave 70s TV series Fantasy Island an unsettling makeover, too, to downright awful results. Now, it's Freaky Friday's turn. Body-swap movies span far beyond films starring Jodie Foster (in 1976) and Lindsay Lohan (in 2003), but given that Freaky sets the bulk of its action on a Friday, it's clearly nodding in the obvious direction. The movie begins with a prelude on Wednesday the 11th (yes, not only will most of the chaos go down on a Friday, but it'll happen on Friday the 13th). In the opening scene, four small-town high schoolers do what teens do in the first moments of slasher flicks: talk, party and make out in an empty old mansion, then get killed by a mask-wearing psychopath. Before the quartet meets that fate, its members explain who is responsible. The Blissfield Butcher (Vince Vaughn) is known to have terrorised the area but, due to a lack of recent murders, the serial killer has mostly become an urban legend of late. Writer/director Christopher Landon (Happy Death Day and its sequel) and his co-scribe Michael Kennedy (Bordertown) know that they're sticking to a formula here, and that any viewer who has seen any number of other frightening franchises knows it as well. They're being playful, though, a trait they try to keep up for the rest of the film. Not only is the Butcher real, but he steals a cursed Aztec dagger that lets him swap bodies with his next victim. So, when Millie (Kathryn Newton, Big Little Lies) crosses his path, she wakes up in his very tall and very male guise the next morning — and vice versa. For the Butcher, who instantly kits out Millie's petite frame in an uncharacteristic red leather jacket and tight jeans, it's a dream. He's already known for offing adolescents, and now he can blend in as one of them. For Millie, it takes some explaining to get her besties (The Goldfinch's Misha Osherovich and Selah and the Spades' Celeste O'Connor) not to scream at her new manly form. And, with the entire town is on the lookout for the Butcher, she's forced to run and hide while she's trying to track down her actual body. Shy, bullied and still mourning the death of her father a year ago, Millie also notices the changes that come with her masculine appearance. She can impose her might on her tormenters (although the Butcher has them in his sights, too), and comments on feeling strong and commanding. As Millie explains this strangely empowering sensation — after gags about what's now in her pants, expectedly — Freaky adds some depth to its high-concept horror-comedy idea. It calls out society's accepted notions of male power, and makes it plain that women are never seen in the same forceful fashion. Later, Millie shares a tender exchange with her also grief-stricken, often wine-drinking mother (Katie Finneran, Why Women Kill), showing how it's often easier to unburden your problems upon strangers than loved ones. These are astute and accurate observations, as paired with savvy moments. In a far more lived-in way than fellow recent release The Craft: Legacy, the film eagerly inhabits a progressive and accepting world. But not every aspect lands as intended. Another sequence that sees Millie connect with her crush (Uriah Shelton, Girl Meets World) while also still stuck in the Butcher's body too overtly tries to evoke laughs when they kiss, for example. That patchwork outcome — sometimes things fall into place entertainingly, sometimes they don't — applies to Freaky overall. Given that it sports a big twist right there in its premise, no one should expect a surprise-laden narrative. Still, even though Landon and Kennedy wink and nod as they borrow from other body swap and slasher fare, a movie can be aware of what it's doing, deliver standout moments and elements, and flit between fun and average as well. Freaky is glossily shot, swiftly paced and boasts a memorable graphic match, segueing from a head being slammed by a toilet seat to two teens getting intimate. It's particularly engaging when it ramps up either the gore-splattered horror or the over-the-top comedy. But it also swaps a heap of competing pieces into one package, then appears mostly content to play by the numbers when it comes to relentless serial killers plucking off teens and folks ending up in each other's bodies alike. Oh, and it's mighty keen to make its franchise aspirations well and truly known, too. As a result, Freaky always feels heavily indebted to its lead casting choices, both of which are top-notch. Without either Vaughn or Newton, the film might've resembled The Hot Chick meets the worst Nightmare on Elm Street sequels rather than Freaky Friday meets Friday the 13th. Vaughn gets the showier role, and demonstrates how shrewdly he's considered what it's like to be a teenage girl, with his version of Millie occasionally proving more fleshed out than the real thing. Newton embraces her fierce and fearsome side as the Butcher and, consequently, it's easy to see why Millie herself is a little impressed by her confidence. Both actors do more than just stick to the movie's clearcut concept, crucially — but Freaky itself could've taken their lead more often, and taken note of its titular term far more as well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-M4qEmF268
Sydney's intimate, boutique Golden Age Cinema is teaming up with Four Pillars Gin for a mini booze and film festival. Each Wednesday night in August, the 56-seat Surry Hills spot is hosting double bills paired with Bloody Shiraz gin cocktails. It's quite the lineup, too, with a little something for everyone on the bill. The festival is called Winter Is Dark, however, so that's the kind of tone it's going for — whether horror flicks, comedies, dramas or romance movies are hitting the screen. First up on August 7 is 70s great Harold & Maude, followed by a trip to Fargo (the Coen Brothers-directed film, not the TV series it inspired). Or, if you're heading along with your significant other, perhaps August 14's pair of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Only Lovers Left Alive will appeal. The next week, on August 21, classic western McCabe & Mrs Miller will screen, accompanied by the French Alps-set pitch-black dramedy Force Majeure. Then, wrapping it all up on August 28 is John Carpenter's The Thing and the head-turning The Exorcist. These dark cult flicks will all get a beverage to match, made with Four Pillar's highly coveted Bloody Shiraz gin. The screenings kick off between 6.15–6.30pm and 8.30–8.40pm each evening, but we suggest you get there a little earlier for the drinks. Tickets are $22 for each film.
When January is in full swing, the sun is out and we're all still in a holiday mood — whether or not we're actually still on holidays — no one needs an excuse for a weekend road trip. But here's one anyway, coming courtesy of Harvest Newrybar: eating dishes whipped up by acclaimed chef Danielle Alvarez. Formerly of Fred's in Sydney, Alvarez is heading to the Byron hinterland to cook up a storm for three days. That means that diners at A Weekend with Danielle at Harvest have three chances to tuck in: for dinner from 5.30pm on Friday, January 20 and Saturday, January 21, and for lunch from 12pm on Sunday, January 22. [caption id="attachment_885631" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] It's the first time that Alvarez has brought her old-world cooking techniques to the region, and her all-round thoughtful approach to the kitchen as well — and she'll be matching Harvest's own focus on sustainability and top-notch local ingredients, of course. Indeed, she's visiting the producers that the restaurant works with, and Harvest family farm Picone Orchard, to come up with her culinary lineup. On the menu: oyster with gazpacho, fish tartare with finger lime and fish sauce in betel leaf, flatbread with charred chilli and clam butter, and a plate of pickled and wood oven-roasted veggies paired with locally made fresh cheese. And, there's also squid and prawn rice with coriander and chilli tahini, roasted Bangalow sweet pork and grilled fish with summer squash. Plus, dessert spans fruit from Piccone on ice, as well as lemonade fruit granita with lychees. Bookings will cost you $130 per person for a three-course set menu, or $220 with matched wines. Harvest Newrybar images: Jess Kearney.
When announcing their new head chef was one John Javier, a spokesperson for The Lord Wolseley Hotel acknowledged he was "a little overqualified" for the unassuming Ultimo pub. It's probably a fair call, given Javier comes with a resume studded with fine diners such as Momofuku Seiobo, Quay and his own place, now-closed place, Master, which wowed critics with its ambitious take on modern Chinese. The bill isn't quite to bring fine dining to a pub setting, but Javier is certainly bringing a new level of finesse to some fairly approachable food. Instead of the tried and true spaghetti bolognese, for instance, there's a capellini with lamb belly, tripe and mint ($18). It scratches the same itch as the pub classic, but brings something new to the dish and the thin, al dente strands of pasta pair well with the crunch and chewiness of tripe and the freshness of the generously ripped mint leaves. One of the memorable dishes from Javier's time at Master was a burnt cabbage and he's not afraid of introducing some judicious blackened touches to his menu here, with the Burnt Pumpkin ($20). A poached egg on top oozes over the hero vegetable, strewn with chevre cheese and crisp sage, ties it together into an unusual, earthy whole. Gnocchi is also approached from a fresh angle, with pillowy dumplings resting in a feather-light tomato emulsion and spiked with colour and bite with slivers of radish. There are two desserts on offer — the menu wisely aims for quality over breadth — with a faultless panna cotta ($12) scattered with toasted buckwheat and encircled by Vietnamese coffee. The other selection is a half-moon shaped crispy pancake ($12), filled with stewed apple and hazelnut and complemented by a dollop of thick ricotta cream. This is the kind of superior comfort food that is going to get clean plates returned to the kitchen. The vibe is laidback with brown paper in place of tablecloths, and tourist t-shirts and playbills for student theatre productions hanging on the walls. An energetic playlist, another Javier trade mark, is another plus — instead of the generic background music favoured by some Sydney restaurants you'll hear the likes of Talking Heads, Pixies and Joy Division. It's not really a lengthy wine list kind of place, but the friendly local will sort you out with craft beers, ciders and some wines by the glass, like a 2016 Teusner Shiraz ($11/49), a flavoursome drop from the Barossa Valley. All in all, it may be an unexpected stop on Javier's resume, but those lapping up a menu full of personality will be glad it's one he has made. Images: Jiwon Kim
Dulwich Hill's nighttime has expanded once more, with the opening of Butchers Brew Bar. The newcomer brings jazz and funk to Marrickville Road, slinging local craft brews, a serious wine list and live tunes six nights a week. It's an intimate, 50-seat venue owned by local and self-confessed live music junkie Caroline Buckingham, who's lived in the area for 20 years. It's housed in a former butchery (hence the name), and the 'retro-butcher' vibe has been maintained in the fit-out — the old butcher hooks have been repurposed into a ledge, and turquoise and gold tiles have been spruced up. To increase the jazz lounge feels, velvet curtains and vintage red spotlights were added, brick walls have been exposed and local artist Fernando Mosca (who's résumé also boasts Marrickville's Lazybones) was commissioned to paint a mural of Aretha Franklin. Music is the main offering here, with a focus on jazz and funk, but the genres aren't limited — other acts include surf rock bands, reggae hip-hop groups, New York jazz quintets and Brazilian musicians. Bands take the stage every Tuesday through Sunday night, with Mondays reserved for stand-up comedy by Happy Endings Comedy Club. The entertainment cover charge ranges from $10–20 — with all profits going to the band — and sometimes includes the first drink. At the bar, expect Sydney locals Young Henrys and Batch on tap ($10–12) and classic cocktails for $20, along with a compact, but carefully selected wine list ($9–15 by the glass). For hard booze, Marrickville's Poor Toms and Grose Vale's Karu Distillery are supplying the gin, while Sydney's Silver Moon Distillery is covering the vodka. According to Buckingham, the drinks at a live music venue are as important as the acts — but not all Sydney venues pay equal attention to both. "I've noticed that there'll be a beautiful venue and great band on, but a very basic or horrible wine list," says Buckingham. "I think having a nice glass of wine in your hand turns a good evening into a great evening." The drinks list may continue to grow, too, with Buckingham looking to get in bottled brews from Dulwich Hill's The Sausage Factory, which launched its own brewery Sausage Queen Brewing last year. While the in-house food offering is limited to cheese platters ($10–20) — at the moment, there's a Tasmania smoked brie, Danish blue and cheddar on offer — delivery from nearby ethical Japanese restaurant Manmaru is also available. Down the line, Buckingham is hoping to partner with Middle Eastern pizzeria Fred's Oil and Oregano Lebanese Bakery, across the street. Also to come is a mini art gallery, with local artists invited to hang and sell their work throughout the Butchers Brew space. Images: Katje Ford.
Seligman (Stellan Skarsgård) comes across Joe (Charlotte Gainsbourg), lying broken and beaten in the street. She refuses an ambulance, so he takes her back to his house, where she tells him the story of lifelong obsession with sex. Nymphomaniac is, in many territories around the world, released in two separate parts. In Australia, we are getting the whole thing in one massive four-hour go, albeit with some of the more extreme material cut. Although it's hard to imagine they cut much, given what's left in. There's a good chance that Nymphomaniac will confirm your preconceived notions of director Lars von Trier. To his fans, it is a bold, funny, challenging film that dives headlong into a difficult subject. To his detractors, it is further evidence that von Trier's idea of provocative cinema is a rote combination of mental illnesses and genital close-ups. I should confess at this point that I am traditionally a von Trier detractor, but one who claimed his previous work, Melancholia, to be one of 2011's best films. Nymphomaniac, however, is a litany of his worst tendencies. He seems terrified of sincerity; every moment that comes dangerously close to a human emotion is immediately undercut with a cynical aside as we cut jarringly back to the 'present -day' story. What should be a clever framing device becomes a get-out-of-jail free card for von Trier. Joe and Seligman fall over themselves to acknowledge the extraordinary coincidences in Joe's story, as if von Trier thinks this makes up for lazy writing. Or is winking at us to show us the lazy writing is deliberate. Either way, he seems to believe a veil of self-aware cynicism insulates him against potential criticism. It does not. Now, it must be acknowledged that making fun of Shia LaBeouf these days is like shooting fish in a barrel, and must only be attempted when the situation absolutely calls for it. This is one such situation. Casting LaBeouf as one of the 'English' characters feels like von Trier's biggest prank, and LaBeouf enters each scene as if he was asked to try some sort of Britishy accent moments before 'action!' was called. I'm not saying it's bad; I'm saying nobody's allowed to make fun of Dick Van Dyke ever again. There's an adage in filmmaking that if you have a great ending, audiences will forgive any trespasses. And Nymphomaniac, I must confess, has a great ending. It went out on such an impressive note, it almost made me forget my problems with the proceeding four hours. Almost. Ardent fans of von Trier will find much to enjoy in this film, as he continues exploring the themes and styles of works such as Breaking the Waves, Dogville and Dancer in the Dark. If you do not count yourself as a fan, then I suggest you stay well away. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Gdxzno5Xp2Y
When Golden Century closed down it left a yum cha-sized hole in the heart of Sydney — one that was only compounded by the loss of Marigold later that year. While you can still get the Golden Century team's famous XO-drenched pipis at the appropriately named XOPP, the closing of the original location left many locals longing for the rattling of yum cha trollies and late-night feeds like no other. Thankfully, the old Golden Century space has not been renovated into a set of apartments or a high-end boutique but instead has reemerged as The Royal Palace Seafood Restaurant, an expansive 600-person Cantonese restaurant with dining until 3am, live seafood tanks and yum cha. The impressive new Haymarket restaurant is split across three levels. On level one you'll find the a la carte dining room lined with 24 live seafood tanks with lobsters, crabs and fish. Head upstairs to level two for yum cha service or to nab a private dining suite. And on level three you'll discover a dedicated function space that can host 175 guests. Living up to its name, seafood plays a pivotal role on the menu, with highlights including pipis in XO sauce, lobster and braised noodles, and Singapore chilli crab. There are also plenty of crowd-pleasing classics like Peking duck pancakes, crispy roast pork and honey-glazed char siu. Up in the yum cha zone, you can expect a classic spread. Prawn dumplings, siu mai and Cheung fun rice rolls are just some of the tasty plates being wheeled around. And, make sure to leave room for dessert, with egg tarts and mango pancakes available after you've worked through the dim sum offering. Golden Century's late-night opening hours were always a huge drawcard at the original restaurant, and The Royal Palace Seafood Restaurant is committed to carrying this torch. The full menu is available until 10.30pm Sunday–Wednesday, and all the way until 3am Thursday–Saturday. The Royal Palace Seafood Restaurant is located at 393–299 Sussex Street, Haymarket. It's open 10am–11pm Monday–Wednesday, 10am–3pm Thursday, 9.30am–3am Friday–Saturday and 9.30am–11pm Sunday.
For the second time in as many movies, Lady Gaga is caught in a bad romance in House of Gucci. Yes, she's already sung the song to match. The pop diva doesn't belt out ballads or croon upbeat tunes in this true-crime drama, unlike in her Oscar-nominated role in A Star Is Born, but she does shimmy into a tale about love and revenge, horror and design, and wanting someone's everything as long as it's free. Eschewing the earthy naturalism of her last film performance and tapping into her famed on-stage theatricality instead, she's perfect for the part of Patrizia Reggiani, aka Lady Gucci, aka the daughter of a trucking entrepreneur who wed into one of the world's most prestigious fashion families, helped unstitch its hold on its couture empire, then went to prison for murder. She's exceptional because she goes big and lavish, and because she knows that's the type of feature she's meant to be in: a soapy spectacle about money and power that uses its depiction of excess as an interrogation technique. Complimenting Gaga for nailing the brief — for acing it so dazzlingly that she's sauntering down her own catwalk as most of her co-stars virtually watch from the floor — gives House of Gucci a tad too much credit, though. Ridley Scott's second film in mere months following The Last Duel, and his third in a row to examine wealth and influence after 2017's All the Money in the World, this fashion-world saga skews large, lush and luxe with each choice, too, but doesn't land every sashay with quite the outsized lustre of its crown jewel. If House of Gucci's veteran director was picking an outfit instead, he would've chosen a killer gown, then wavered on the accessories. Some of his other decisions gleam, as seen in the movie's knowingly maximalist and melodramatic air. Others prove fine, like its jukebox-style soundtrack of 70s and 80s bangers. A few moves are so cartoonish — Jared Leto's ridiculousness, and the Super Mario-style accents sported by almost everyone on-screen — that they play like cheap knockoffs. The story itself is a standout, however, as adapted from Sara Gay Forden's 2001 book The House of Gucci: A Sensational Story of Murder, Madness, Glamour, and Greed. When Patrizia meets law student Maurizio Gucci (Adam Driver, Annette) at a 70s-era party, mistakes him for a bartender, then realises who he is, it sparks a rollercoaster of a relationship — starting with Maurizio being disinherited by his father Rodolfo (Jeremy Irons, Love, Weddings and Other Disasters) for their marriage. Still, the newest Gucci knows what she wants: a place in the family's dynasty. She isn't the lone cause of the Guccis' unfolding, thanks to Rodolfo's brother Aldo (Al Pacino, Hunters), his penchant for watering down the brand and tax evasion, and his wannabe-designer son Paolo (Leto, The Little Things), but she's the Lady Macbeth pushing Maurizio to seize the company by any means. And, because the reason that House of Gucci even exists was written in news headlines over a quarter-century ago, she's behind Maurizio's killing in 1995. "I don't consider myself a particularly ethical person, but I'm fair," Patrizia offers partway into the movie, a moral code that still sees her order his hit after their divorce — helped by a TV psychic-turned-pal (Salma Hayek, Eternals), because that's the kind of tale this is. Interviewed in 2016, Patrizia called herself "the most Gucci of them all", an idea that Scott and his screenwriters Becky Johnston (Arthur Newman) and Roberto Bentivegna (short El otro lado) don't ever give Italian-lilted voice to, but still use as their basic pattern. In the sartorial realm, Gucci might stand for high-end indulgence, but House of Gucci sees both the allure and the cost of the brand reflected in Patrizia's status-hungry actions. Lust — for power, popularity, money, standing and sex all included — might be the soapiest vice of them all. Blunt, pulsating and pumping through the hot-blooded Patrizia's veins, it's House of Gucci's signature emotion, although the other deadly sins also get a whirl. No exaggerated account of life, love and the one percent's lavishness lacks in greed, pride, wrath, envy, gluttony and sloth as well, including this one, but there's nothing like unfettered desire to keep a narrative bubbling. Scott's film is positively ravenous for more, as its protagonist is at every turn. Nothing is too much for Patrizia in her quest to inhabit a life she once only fantasised about, and there's little that House of Gucci won't do to convey and embody that appetite. But all that glitters isn't always gold, or diamond-sharp, or even entertainingly gaudy, including for the picture itself. With Scott's regular cinematographer Dariusz Wolski on lensing duties, House of Gucci looks like a glitzy dream that slowly loses its glamour, and by design. Its largely Milan-set staging and obviously Gucci-heavy costuming expresses the same feeling — whether or not Paolo is urinating on silk scarves and Aldo is peddling fakes. But those pasta-sauce ad accents just play cheap and easy from the outset, and everything about Leto's prosthetic-laden, safari suit-wearing, hammed-up performance does the same. Both quickly overstay their welcomes, not that either is ever welcomed at all. Calling them knowing gags, purposefully camp flourishes or pointed parodies would be far too generous, even given the feature's gleeful soap-opera tone, overt eat-the-rich sentiments and clear awareness that it's a piece of true-crime pageantry. Thank the pop-culture gods for Gaga, then, as legions of her Little Monsters have for more than a decade. Another movie from the past year, the unshakeably misguided Joe Bell, had a character liberally sing her praises — but, surpassing even A Star Is Born, House of Gucci is her silver-screen powerhouse. Donning wiggle dresses, voluminous hair and a slinkily savage attitude, she's both lively and alive to everything happening in Patrizia's story and Scott's film alike. Whether posed opposite Driver's restrained turn as Maurizio or Pacino's also-big effort as Aldo, her presence improves her co-stars' work in every scene they share, too. Hers is an investment performance, with Scott entrusting almost everything that hits the mark in House of Gucci to his leading lady's go-for-it glow — and treating audiences to a bona fide movie-star show that Gaga couldn't wear better if it was sewn on.
Since 2016, Bruce Munro's spectacular Field of Light has been illuminating Uluru, giving the already-stunning Northern Territory sight an ocean of colour via 50,000 glass lights spread across a 62,500-square-metre area. The glowing multi-hued installation unsurprisingly proved popular, and instantly, first getting extended until 2020 and then being locked in indefinitely — and now the Red Centre is scoring Light-Towers, another dazzling work by the acclaimed artist. Add Light-Towers to your must-see list, and make a date with Kings Canyon to bathe in its radiance. Up and shining since April 2023, it's part of Discovery Resorts, and turns both light and sound into an immersive piece. Like Field of Light, it's also sticking around permanently. This time, Munro has constructed a heap of two-metre towers that change colour, swapping their tones in response to music that echoes from inside each structure. There's a whopping 69 towers spread across a circular pattern, all with Kings Canyon as a backdrop — giving visitors quite the visual and aural experience. Light-Towers' soundscape hails from Orlando Gough, while the work helps mark 40 years since Munro's first visit to the Red Centre. If you're keen to drop by, you can pick between three different types of sessions spanning sunrise, sunset and evening. The first two feature a local guide hosting your visit, plus a food and beverage package. For those attending by night, the Luritja Lookout will have somewhere for you to eat and drink before and after you peer at Munro's latest luminous expanse. The British-born Munro first came up with the idea for Field of Light while visiting Uluru back in 1992. When that artwork was earmarked to become one of the area's ongoing feature, he said that he is "truly honoured that the Field of Light will remain at Uluru". He continued, "the ancient landscape of the Red Centre continues to inspire my thoughts, feelings and ideas that shape my life and work." Since then, Munro has displayed large-scale installations in Darwin and in Albany in Western Australia, and has two more pieces on their way to the New South Wales–Victorian border from late 2023. Find Light-Towers at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon, Luritja Road, Petermann, Northern Territory — and head to the resort company's website for bookings and further details. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
They're the pieces of plastic no one can leave home without — if you want to catch a bus, train, tram or ferry. Sydney has Opal, Melbourne has Myki and Brisbane has the Go Card, aka the main way to pay for public transport in today's increasingly cash-less society. For now, that is. News Corp's Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane papers are all reporting the looming end of the current ticketing cards, in favour of smartphone, smartwatch and tap-and-go bank card payments. It's one of those obvious leaps in technology that was always going to happen at some point soon. If there's a more convenient, contactless way to pay that don't rely upon everyone remembering to stuff yet another card into their wallet, then it's hardly surprising that the New South Wales, Victorian and Queensland governments are looking into it. In Sydney, a trial began on the Manly ferry last year, with patrons tapping their Mastercards instead. It's expected to expand to other forms of transport according to The Daily Telegraph, although it's worth noting that Opal multi-trip benefits don't apply to other payment systems. Melburnians can expect to scan on with a credit or debit card in trials due to start this year, focusing on Routes 11, 86 or 96, The Sunday Herald Sun notes. And in Brisbane, The Sunday Mail reports that a trial will commence either later in 2018 or sometime in early 2019, starting with the Airtrain. Moving away from dedicated transport cards — or adding other payment options — will make things easier for tourists and travellers, who shouldn't have to buy a new piece of plastic just to catch a bus or train (or pay extra for a paper ticket if they don't) when they're visiting. Ensuring the new system remains accessible for anyone that doesn't have a smartphone, smartwatch or bank card remains a concern, however. And, there'll always need to be a backup option in case someone forgets their phone, watch or wallet. Via The Sunday Mail / The Sunday Herald Sun / The Daily Telegraph. Images: Beau Giles / Binayak Dasgupta / Andrew Thomas.
Sydney's harbourside bars are inviting nearly year round. But summer is the perfect time to enjoy a few beverages outdoors overlooking our city's prized natural gift. Here are our top picks of harbourside bars to get you in the mood for the warmer months ahead. The Island Bar Deck chairs, random shipping paraphernalia, umbrellas, cocktails and astroturf. Yes, you guessed it, the Island Bar. Here you have a chilled patch of green, tropical tunes and nautically named cocktails, wine by the glass and beers (from $8) on Sydney Harbour's Cockatoo Island. Want some food to accompany that glowing sunset? Try the wood fired pizza. Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf Alcohol, share plates, ping pong, billiards, and dramatic views of the Harbour Bridge and Luna Park … what's not to like about the Bar at the End of the Wharf? Although a theatre bar, this place takes its beers, cider and wine very seriously. And then there's the cocktails, which change depending on the current Sydney Theatre Company season. The Lotte Kotten ($17), a combination of house made blood orange sorbet, burnt orange infused gin, Aperol, bubbles with a dash of bitters, is a must try. Pier 4/5 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay Opera Bar You can't get much more iconic than this. With a large outdoor area in such a prime spot, it's hard to deny Opera Bar the harbourside kudos it deserves. In addition to a well-versed wine list, there's some decent, reasonably priced food options too. While it's lacked some character in the past, there's a revamp coming from Matt Moran's MorSul and current operators Solotel that could shake things up in very good way. 2 Macquarie Street, Sydney Papi Chulo Located right next to the ferry dock in Manly, this stylish, self-proclaimed smokehouse and grill packs a fabulously relaxed punch to the senses the moment you step inside. Up the entrance ramp, you're drawn to the chunky, polished curving central bar stocked to the brim and hugged by cane stools. You might be inclined to think they've just taken a whole bunch of much-loved design elements and thrown them together, but like the combination of flavours behind the Deep South/South American menu, it works. Drinks-wise, you've got a full wine list catering to pretty much any palate likely to pop in, and as you'd expect, there are plenty of cocktails. 22-23 Manly Wharf, Manly Little Fish Take a stroll down the sunny length of Jones Bay Wharf and you'll come to a gorgeous little bar by the name of Little Fish. The window-walled outdoor section of the historic structure that houses Flying Fish features pretty, resort-style couches, heaters in winter and a sparkling harbour vista. The cocktails do some sparkling of their own — the Butter Me Up ($19) features 666 vodka made using butter (that's right) from a dairy farm next door to the distillery and gets even more heavenly with lime juice, vanilla syrup and a dark chocolate rim. Jones Bay Wharf, 19-21 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont Double Bay 18 Foot Skiff Club A solid all-rounder. Usual suspects on the bar menu include burgers and oysters ($18.80 half dozen natural). Wine from the Australian/New Zealand dominated list start at $6.50 per glass for non-members. And don't forget to head out to the pier to enjoy views of the surrounding bay and harbour beyond. 77 Bay Street, Double Bay Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel The Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel's Beach Club is a place that serves up the kind of beachy-cool-baby thing that Sydney should do so well but doesn't always get so right. With sprawling outdoor seating, a fresh-not-fancy menu and a view so palm-tree perfect it could be a postcard, the revamped hotel just exudes easy elegance. 1 Military Road, Watsons Bay MCA Cafe Let's face it, if you're running a cafe on the fourth floor of the Museum of Contemporary Art with harbour views, you could pretty much serve up a bowl of cornflakes and business would still be booming. The view over Circular Quay really is something, even on a rainy day. Thankfully, the chaps from Fresh Catering running the joint are not using the view as an excuse to serve up nonsense. MCA, Level 4, 140 George Street, Sydney Seawall The concrete is still pouring at Barangaroo, but that "next CBD entertainment hub" feeling is flooding Hickson Road as the Lotus Dumpling Bar team open their second Walsh Bay restaurant and bar, Seawall. Waterfront, trattoria style, it serves up Mediterranean dishes with a seafood bent and plenty of sunshine. The place screams Aperol in the sun — potentially as a self-reward for finally coming through on that harbourfront walk with your parents — and their house twist on this classic spritz, the Walsh Cinnamon Spritz ($19), is great year round. Shop 6/17 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay The Island The Island is a floating open-air space and can aptly be describe in one word: exclusive. At the Island you're welcome to feel like a bad-ass rapper or bikini-clad model. In fact, it's encouraged. You'll need tickets to get in on privileged 'Beach Club' Island action, which range from $850 for a six person package, up to $1750 for an eight person premium daybed package. Sydney Harbour, Sydney By the Concrete Playground team.
Umbrellas at the ready, Sydneysiders. Spoons full of sugar, too. In the most supercalifragilisticexpialidocious news you'll hear all day — and all year as well — the Mary Poppins musical is making its way Down Under. Between May–October 2022, you'll be able to revisit the tale of the singing nanny onstage at the Lyric Theatre Sydney. Disney and theatre producer Cameron Mackintosh's current version of the show tells the same tale that everyone knows from the 1964 film — which, as well as inspiring this stage adaptation, also gave rise to big-screen sequel Mary Poppins Returns in 2018. Everything to do with the English governess harks back to PL Travers' books about the character, of course, and pop culture has been thankful for and downright delighted with her stories for almost six decades now. Exact dates for the musical's Sydney season haven't yet been revealed, but theatre fans can look forward to a new version of the show that last graced the city's stages — and won eight Helpmann Awards — back in 2011. Since Mackintosh first teamed up with writer Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey) to bring Mary Poppins to the theatre in 2004, the production has won four Olivier Awards and a Tony as well. Mackintosh is bringing The Phantom of the Opera to Sydney this year, too, and a Cinderella musical is also headed the city's way — so it's a great time to love stage musicals based on classic tales, clearly. Whether Mary Poppins will float on elsewhere in Australia hasn't yet been announced; however, Sydney's season has been marked as the Australian premiere. So, residents of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide – and everywhere else in the country — you can start crossing your fingers that Poppins, the Banks family and their Cherry Tree Lane abode might also come your way in the future. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiT6Og3lDbw Mary Poppins will play the Lyric Theatre Sydney from May–October 2022, with exact dates yet to be revealed. To sign up for the ticket waitlist, head to the musical's website — with tickets due to go on sale in August 2021. Top image: Johan Persson.
In the wake of last weekend's Defqon 1 dance festival tragedy, where two punters died and more were injured as a result of suspected drug overdoses, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has tabled a 'solution'. She's pulled together an expert panel to advise on how to make our festivals safer, which includes Chief Medical Officer Dr Kerry Chant, Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Chair of the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority Philip Crawford. Ms Berejiklian announced the decision via social media, saying that the panel would provide advice on how music festivals and promoters can improve safety at their events, the efficacy of increased drug education, and whether new offences or harsher penalties are required. While many are calling for the introduction of pill testing, Ms Berejiklian has rejected the suggestion, saying the NSW Government does not support pill testing. "Pill testing doesn't guarantee the safety of a drug and what might be safe for one person may not be safe for another person," she told the SMH. "The last thing we would want to see is people getting a false sense of security." However, her comments have received much backlash online from the public and other politicians. https://twitter.com/RichardDiNatale/status/1041883391837126656 https://twitter.com/johannhari101/status/1041469528578908161 Australia's first and only pill testing trial took place at Canberra's Groovin The Moo festival earlier this year, allowing punters to have their drugs analysed for unknown and potentially lethal additives. Eighty-five substances were tested and a bunch of lethal ingredients were found. While no further pill testing trials have yet been announced, the advocacy group behind the Groovin The Moo trial, Harm Reduction Australia, is currently attempting to raise $100K to introduce pill testing throughout Australia. If they do succeed in raising the amount, however, they'll still need to gain the approval of the state governments. Ms Berejiklian has asked her expert panel to provide their advice within four weeks, following close consultation with the likes of the local government and those in the music industry. Image: Big Sound, Bec Taylor
The self-deprecating not-humour humour of Sydney artist Christopher Hanrahan's work makes it the kind that continues to resonate long after you've encountered it. If you saw his sculpture Endless Holes (four decanters for CB) which was part of his solo exhibition Table of Knowledge last year, you'll know what I mean.If I could get the artist to write something about his new show, he might write something exactly like this:The Seeker is Christopher Hanrahan's second solo exhibition at Sarah Cottier Gallery. Utilising a variety of media from traditional drawing through to casting, aerosol art and neon, Hanrahan examines pretty much nothing. That said — it's pretty good. Pretty, pretty good.Go and see it.Image courtesy of the artist and Sarah Cottier Gallery
"Sitting on a bench in Wicks Park in Marrickville, reading a field report by The Lifted Brow's Sam Cooney, I madly looked around for a caramel door described in the text. There it was! As if the writer had put the doorway there himself! Of course, I knew he hadn't, but it was perfect — the exact kind of dark magic that all good writers and artists and musicians perform when their work seems to lift up walls behind walls behind walls and reveal something new and unexpected with great clarity. This is what digital literature can do and be! It's a revelation — experiential and immersive and immediate." This eerie literary experience, as described by Concrete Playground writer Lauren Carroll Harris, was made possible through the award-winning digital project The Silent History. A science-fiction novel that takes the form of an app, The Silent History tells the tale of a dystopian future where a mysterious epidemic has robbed children of the ability to develop language. From 2011 to 2043, readers watch on as these mute children — dubbed 'silents' — tear families apart, unnerve entire government sectors and generally freak people out. Part sci-fi thriller, part-real-life scavenger hunt, the app has been called "entirely revolutionary" by Wired magazine, while the LA Times declared it "a landmark project that illuminates a possible future for e-book novels." We spoke to its creator, ex-McSweeney's managing editor and publisher Eli Horowitz, in Australia for the Sydney Writers' Festival, about what it means to read an app and what writers are doing differently to entertain a digital audience. The Writer as a Prime Mover "The first thing I wanted was it to be a story that you could explore," says Horowitz, "because I have this thing, which I bet that a lot of people have, when you read a book you love or see a movie you love or whatever, you almost then want to keep on existing in that world. You want to see what's just off the page or off the screen, and keep on exploring and living in it." The tablet platform, with its promise of interactivity and updatability, was a natural fit. An app like The Silent History combines the familiar pleasures of a page-turning narrative with the gaming world's mechanics of exploration and investigation. "Once I had that then the plot needed to be kind of global and sprawling, the kind of essential premise that could play itself out a lot of different ways, so that's why it became kind of like a medical story, an epidemic story almost, that lends itself well to that." But that's just the beginning. Around this main story arc float hundreds of 'field reports', site-specific side narratives that readers can only access when they travel to the physical location where the report is set. These reports can be written by anyone, anywhere — in fact, there are already a bunch tucked away around Australia. And if you're feeling inspired, you are free to pen your own and submit it for approval from The Silent History's US editing team. The Writer as a team player Horowitz, begotten of a librarian and originally a carpenter ("not a very good one"), claims that the whole process featured very little in the way of creative genius and a whole lot of good ol' problem solving. He admits that the communal approach of the project — which is what has brought The Silent History so much attention — wasn't even originally part of the blueprint. "The collaborative aspect was not so much any kind of ideological belief about crowd-sourcing or wikis or whatever but more that I wanted these things to be all over the place and I couldn't put them all over the place," he explains, "The more people we had [writing] the more of a geographic spread we could have." It sounds simple enough. But creative genius or problem solver, Horowitz has been hailed as a literary revolutionary. He and his team, Ying, Horowitz & Quinn LLC, are considered trailblazers in e-storytelling, crafting a digital experience unlike any other. While e-books have been popping up on the App Store since the release of the iPad in 2010, none has received this level of fanfare. The Writer as a Coder "A lot of times [with] these projects, the downfall is that they're essentially a technology project and they find some writing to cram into it or it's essentially a literary project and then at the end they add the technological aspect and it's still kind of unsatisfied or clunky or buggy," says Horowitz, "so having it all work together was really important." For all the praise coming his way, though, the San Franciscan remains humble. During his eight years at Californian publishing house McSweeney's, he operated under the mantra that anything he printed had to "earn the page it's on". He says that he brought this same approach over to the app world, trying to create something that "earns the screen it's on". "I approach this in very much the same way that I would approach a book with McSweeney's or whatever else," he says. "Just to think about how form and content both can affect each other, and to think about the total experience of the project. I don't see this as a move away from print or anything, I see this as just another tool in our toolbox." Eli Horowitz will be appearing at the The Sydney Writer's Festival from May 24 to 26 at the events Reading in the E-Future, Festival Club Friday, The Silent History and Tales From the Editorial Front Line. He'll also pop into the Sydney Apple Store on May 28 as part of Vivid Sydney.
For screen fiends who spend their winters indoors at their favourite picture palaces, there's one surefire way to know that better weather has hit: the arrival of outdoor cinema season. When Sydney's chillier temperatures give way to sunny days and warm nights, the city's spaces set up plenty of openair big screens showing flicks. One such spot: The Rocks Laneway Cinema. As you might know from past runs, this film-loving pop-up sticks around for half the year, screening movies every Wednesday night — and for free. Across the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024, mark Wednesday, October 4—Wednesday, March 27 in your diary for a date on Atherden Street. Also, get ready for different monthly themes. First up: comedy classics in October, which is where Bridesmaids, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Anchorman and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me come in. Then, November will deliver five films that'll get you singing as part of its music strand: School of Rock, The Sapphires, Almost Famous, Pitch Perfect and Mamma Mia!. While exactly what'll be on the bill from there hasn't yet been unveiled, December will naturally showcase Christmas classics and January will capitalise upon vacation vibes with holiday road trip-inspired titles. Then, February will go with a summer of love focus — again, 'tis the season for it — while March is all about 80s favourites. Laneway Cinema's movies screen from 7pm each week — and although entry is free, bookings are recommended because seating is limited. Heading along also means helping a good cause, with the proceeds from every $2 bag of popcorn sold going to charity. The beneficiary changes monthly, too, with Beyond Blue receiving the funds in October, Support Act in November and the rest of the lineup to come. If you're the kind of cinemagoer that needs snacks and sips, the venues around laneway have plenty to eat and drink on offer. That means making a date with spots such as Caminetto Restaurant, P'Nut Street Noodles, El Camino Cantina and The Mercantile Hotel. Obviously, you'll need your wallet for whatever tempts your tastebuds. Images: Anna Kucera / Cassandra Hannagan.
Australia's capital cities aren't the only places filled with music fans. That's one of the ideas behind Groovin the Moo, which rounds up a heap of huge names and takes them on the road to play regional locations. And, in 2023, those acts are indeed big — Fatboy Slim, Denzel Curry, Eliza Rose and Skepta-level big. They're four of the music stars on the just-announced lineup for the beloved large-scale touring music fest, which returns in 2023 after a pandemic-enforced break, then a smaller tour in 2022. This year, it's back with a full nationwide run, heading to six different states and territories across April and May. Along the way, it'll finally mark a comeback in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland — and hit up New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria as well. [caption id="attachment_878696" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Carlos Luna / Secretaría de Cultura CDMX[/caption] Also on the bill: everyone from Amy Shark, Ball Park Music and Barkaa through to Alt-J, Ocean Alley and Omar Apollo — plus Slayyyter and Sophie May as well. The full lineup spans an impressive mix of overseas and local talent, including Laurel and BBNO$ among the acts making the trip. The list goes on, meaning that folks in Wayville, Maitland, Canberra, Bendigo, the Sunshine Coast and Bunbury — or heading to them just for GTM — have plenty to look forward to. And yes, Queenslanders will note the already-revealed new Sunshine Coast location, after logistical challenges and increased financial pressures forced a move from Townsville. Already grabbing your gumboots? Getting ready to dance in a paddock to one helluva bill? Then you'll be keen to nab tickets from 12pm local time on Tuesday, February 7. And, GTM still has a few details to drop, such as the triple j Unearthed, Fresh Produce artists and Community programs. GROOVIN THE MOO 2023 LINEUP: Alt-J Amy Shark Ball Park Music Barkaa BBNO$ The Chats Choomba Confidence Man Denzel Curry Eliza Rose Fatboy Slim Laurel Luude Ocean Alley Omar Apollo Royel Otis Skegss Skepta Slayyyter Slowly Slowly Sophie May Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers Teenage Dads Teenage Joans Hosts: Lex and Pookie Plus triple j Unearthed, Fresh Produce artists and Community programs still to be announced. GROOVIN THE MOO 2023 DATES AND VENUES: Friday, April 21 — Adelaide Showground, Kaurna Country, Wayville, SA Saturday, April 22 — Maitland Showground, Wonnarua Country, Maitland, NSW Sunday, April 23 — Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), Ngambri and Ngunnawal Country, Mitchell, ACT Saturday, April 29 — Bendigo's Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Dja Dja Wurrung Country, Bendigo, VIC Sunday, April 30 — Kawana Sports Western Precinct, Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country, Warana, QLD Saturday, May 6 — Hay Park, Wardandi Noongar Country, Bunbury, WA Groovin the Moo will tour Australia in April and May 2023. For more information, or for tickets from 12pm local time on Tuesday, February 7, head to the festival's website. Top images: Ruby Boyland, Ash Caygill and Chloe Hall.
Thrilling crime sagas starring spectacular actors: on screens big and small, they've been one of the Australian film and TV industry's biggest successes over the past decade. The Guy Pearce-led Jack Irish franchise did it, starting with three telemovies, then releasing three seasons of television afterwards. Mystery Road managed hit the spot as well, beginning with that eponymous film, followed by big-screen sequel Goldstone, then spanning two seasons of TV so far — and an about-to-drop small-screen prequel series, too. And now The Dry is set to join them. When it reached Aussie cinemas at the beginning of 2021 — making the leap from bookshelves to theatres, adapting the debut novel from author Jane Harper — The Dry became an enormous hit. If you went to the movies at the start of last year, you likely saw it. It currently sits sixth at the box office among local titles over the past ten years, notching up more than $20 million in ticket sales. It also came in sixth in 2021 overall, after Spider-Man: No Way Home, No Time to Die, Godzilla vs Kong, Peter Rabbit 2 and Fast and Furious 9. That kind of response was always likely to spark a sequel (and it shouldn't escape attention that the five movies that made more cash in Australia last year were all either sequels themselves, or part of long-running franchises). So, adapting Harper's second novel Force of Nature, The Dry is now getting a big-screen follow-up. Yes, Eric Bana is back as Detective Aaron Falk. Now shooting in Victoria — with a release date yet to be revealed — Force of Nature focuses on a corporate hiking retreat attended by five women. Afterwards, only four return. So, alongside fellow federal agent Carmen Cooper, Falk heads deep Victoria's mountain ranges to try to find the missing hiker — who also happens to be a whistle-blowing informant — alive. As The Dry was, Force of Nature is being written and directed by Robert Connolly (Paper Planes). Again, it'll boast quite the pair when it comes to Aussie crime cinema — with Connolly the producer of one of the best local crime movies ever made, aka 1998's unnerving The Boys, and Bana was famously the star of the similarly excellent Chopper. Also featuring in Force of Nature, which'll have a powerhouse Aussie cast like its predecessor: Jacqueline McKenzie (Ruby's Choice) as Cooper, Anna Torv (Mindhunter) as missing hiker Alice Russell, plus Deborra-Lee Furness (Jindabyne), Robin McLeavy (Homeland), Sisi Stringer (Mortal Kombat) and Lucy Ansell (Utopia). Richard Roxburgh (Elvis), Tony Briggs (Preppers) and Kenneth Radley (The Power of the Dog) co-star, too, while Jeremy Lindsay-Taylor (Sequin in a Blue Room) is back in the role of Erik Falk. Check out the trailer for The Dry below: Force of Nature doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced. Read our full review of The Dry.
Sydney can prepare to see a few less dockless share bikes around, as one council makes good on its promise to start impounding those that are left lying around damaged or abandoned. Waverley Council — which covers Bondi, Bronte, Vaucluse, Dover Heights, Bondi Junction, Waverley and parts of Rose Bay — last week backed a motion by Mayor John Wakefield to start clearing wayward bikes from the streets, with Business Insider Australia reporting as many as 60 were impounded on Monday alone. Currently, it costs operators $70 to get each bike back, though the council says it's looking into charging as much as $500 a pop under environmental legislation. There are plans to recycle any unclaimed bikes after one month. Waverley is one of the six councils that teamed up last December to write a new set of share bike guidelines, giving operators three months to step up their game and fix the many problems their bikes appear to have created. Later this month, there'll be a review of the companies' responses to the new guidelines, which call for bikes to be removed from dangerous spots within three hours, require bikes to be unlocked for council staff upon request and state that any damaged bikes must be deactivated immediately. Right now, there's an estimated 2000 share bikes around Sydney, though who knows how much longer that will be the case if their owners don't lift their game. Via Business Insider.
Under current COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, there are various interstate border restrictions in place. Up-to-date information on restrictions are available at your state's health websites (click through for NSW, Victoria and Queensland). Of course, even border closures don't mean you can't start dreaming — bookmark this for when you can explore freely once again. There's something special about getting behind the wheel for a long drive, whether you're summiting Australia's soaring mountain ranges or rambling your way up the coastline. There are fascinating adventures awaiting in every corner of the country, so forget about setting a breakneck pace. Just pick out a few waypoints along the way and pull in wherever you please. When you spot a stunning hike or a sandy beach that simply has to be experienced, slide the new Sonos Roam — featuring ten hours of playtime and a drop-resistant design — into your daypack and let the perfect playlist soundtrack your adventures. Exploring Australia has never sounded so good. [caption id="attachment_728931" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lisa Kuilenburg, Tourism Tas[/caption] GREAT EASTERN DRIVE, TASMANIA Don't think that you can get away with ignoring Tassie for much longer. The entire state deserves to be explored but, if time is of the essence, the east coast boasts a particularly scenic drive overflowing with stellar restaurants, wineries and landscapes. The fun starts in the island's northeastern corner at the Bay of Fires with its striking orange lichen-cloaked boulders. Heading south, you'll find windswept delights in coastal towns like Binalong Bay, St Helens and Bicheno before arriving at Freycinet National Park and experiencing spectacular views across Wineglass Bay. [caption id="attachment_777954" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ensay Winery, Visit Victoria[/caption] GREAT ALPINE ROAD, VICTORIA Victoria offers some wonderfully diverse landscapes with the Great Alpine Road carrying you through some of the best. Stretching for 339 kilometres from Wangaratta to Metung, this adventure sees you cruise through granite mountain ranges and venture into lush rainforests — with dozens of great stops to make along the way. Consider taking a detour into Mount Buffalo National Park to experience the incredible views from The Horn or cool off in the Eurobin Falls. You can also sample eco-conscious wines at Ensay Winery or swing by Bruthen's Bullant Brewery for top-quality beers and a feed that showcases delicious regional flavours. [caption id="attachment_734990" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cape Paterson, Visit Victoria[/caption] BASS COAST, VICTORIA You don't have to travel far from Melbourne to get amongst some of the state's most scenic locations. Just an hour's drive from the CBD is the stunning Bass Coast region, which encompasses everything from Phillip Island to Inverloch. Catch views of the jagged coastline and sea-bird nesting areas from San Remo before scooting along the coast to charming towns like Kilcunda, Wonthaggi and Cape Paterson. This unforgettable coastal cruise bounces from one relaxed village to the next with outstanding spots for surfing, snorkelling and dining at every turn. [caption id="attachment_813784" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cape Tribulation, Unsplash[/caption] CAIRNS TO CAPE YORK, QUEENSLAND Completing the 1000-kilometre trip from Cairns to Cape York is a tropical adventure like no other. Featuring some of Australia's wildest landscapes, this road trip will take you on a tour of pioneering history via lowland rainforests and sweeping landscapes. Pause at Mareeba to discover why 70 percent of Australia's coffee is grown here before experiencing the reaches of the Daintree Rainforest at Port Douglas and the pristine Mossman Gorge. While much of the Cairns to Cape York route is sealed, having a 4WD to overcome some unexpected obstacles is a good idea. [caption id="attachment_743610" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] 75 MILE BEACH, QUEENSLAND Scout out the sights of the world's largest sand island — K'gari (Fraser Island) — and its breathtaking 75 Mile Beach. When the tide is right, you're welcome to take your four wheels onto the white sand beach to live out the summertime getaway of your dreams. Plus, there are more than 100 freshwater lakes found across K'gari — be sure to take a dip in the red waters of Lake Boomanjin. You can also explore the SS Maheno Shipwreck, which ran aground in 1935, before pitching a tent beneath the enormous ferns of Central Station's open rainforest. [caption id="attachment_813791" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Geoffrey Rhodes, Flickr[/caption] ANCIENT OUTBACK MOUNT ISA LOOP, QUEENSLAND Pack plenty of water and sunscreen because a multi-day drive through Queensland's remote northwest is bound to get a bit warm. This trip departs from the mining capital of Mount Isa, taking you east past the rugged Selwyn Ranges. Onwards to Richmond, you'll come across Australia's best-preserved dinosaur skeleton at Kronosaurus Korner, while Winton, about 230 kilometres to the south, is believed to be the birthplace of 'Waltzing Matilda'. Ahead of finishing the loop, experience cinematic history by stopping for a drink at Crocodile Dundee's favourite pub, the Walkabout Creek Hotel, in McKinlay. [caption id="attachment_772492" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination Port Stephens[/caption] PACIFIC COAST, NEW SOUTH WALES/QUEENSLAND The road from Sydney to Brisbane is peppered with remarkable attractions. You'll need about a week to experience the top-notch locations along the 1000-kilometre route. After leaving Sydney behind, the first unmissable stop is Lake Macquarie's sparkling rock pools and world-class fishing. Just up the coast, choose any of Port Stephens's 26 stunning beaches for an idyllic picnic and break out the snorkelling gear at Coffs Harbour's Solitary Islands Marine Park. Following a stop in Byron Bay, it's time to cross the Queensland border and experience the Gold Coast hinterland en route to Brisbane. [caption id="attachment_813795" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Broken Hill, Trevor McKinnon, Unsplash[/caption] BROKEN HILL AND THE OUTBACK, NEW SOUTH WALES See both sides of New South Wales as this sweeping road trip transports you from Sydney's bright lights to the frontier town of Broken Hill. You have a variety of fascinating backcountry communities to explore with Dubbo the first major landmark on this adventure. Prepare yourself for the wide open landscapes to come by visiting the Taronga Western Plains Zoo. After you move through historic mining towns like Cobar, Wilcannia and White Cliffs, you'll soon arrive at Broken Hill. Relish a cold drink at the famous Palace Hotel, then head out for an unbeatable sunset surrounded by the sandstone sculptures at the Living Desert & Sculpture Symposium. [caption id="attachment_746256" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Snowy Mountains[/caption] ALPINE WAY, NEW SOUTH WALES Australia might not be best known for its snow-capped mountains, but our alpine region is about as scenic as they come. The Alpine Way links one mindblowing destination to the next with this road trip beginning at the laidback community of Cooma and heading deep into the Snowy Mountains. Learn your local history by paying a visit to the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, then make tracks to the picturesque town of Jindabyne for a dip in the lake (weather permitting, of course). As the altitude increases, the isolated town of Khancoban provides the perfect launchpad to explore Kosciuszko National Park's hikes and adventure activities. Find out more about the new Sonos Roam at the official website. Top image: Bay of Fires, Spencer Chow.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you to Jackalope Hotel at the Mornington Peninsula. We've partnered with this boutique hotel to create a wine-filled weekend getaway that can only be found on Concrete Playground Trips. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? Inside and out, this is one sexy hotel. The sleek interiors were dreamt up by Carr — one of Australia's top architecture and design firms — and are complemented by specially commissioned artworks. The entire building is also designed to take advantage of the stunning views across the surrounding vineyard, whether it's from the rooms, restaurant or 30-metre infinity pool. THE ROOMS Each of the 45 rooms comes with floor-to-celling windows and private terraces overlooking the estate while the suites (saucily referred to as "lairs") are even more luxe — think fully-functioning fireplaces, loft ceilings and even greater views. A dangerously attractive Bond villain would be right at home. Design wise, the rooms are understated with simple black and white finishes (mostly black), filled with custom-built furniture from Melbourne designer and manufacturer Zuster as well as lavish bathroom features including rain showers and jet-black bathtubs. FOOD AND DRINK When staying at Jackalope Hotel, you should dine at its opulent on site restaurant, Doot Doot Doot. Head chef Guy Stanaway runs the kitchen, serving up a regularly changing degustation menu that celebrates farm-to-table dining, injecting refined playfulness into each dish (and is an extremely reasonable $140 per person). You can also head over to Flaggerdoot, the hotel's cocktail lounge, that feels more like a gallery space than bar. It is housed in Edwardian homestead McCormick House (which dates back to 1876) but has been filled with an eclectic collection of art pieces. The faceless busts, geometric light installations and mirrored surfaces make the space a feast for the eyes. THE LOCAL AREA Set between Red Hill and Balnarring at the Mornington Peninsula, Jackalope is in the perfect position for exploring the famous region. There are over 50 cellar doors and restaurants scattered across the surrounding hills, as well as a stunning collection of beaches, golf courses and hiking trails — there's no doubt a long weekend spent here will be a memorable one. THE EXTRAS Extras abound at Jackalope. First off, there is the obligatory spa. Head here for massages, facials and scrubs or purchase the Jackalope x Alba package to get special access to the new Alba thermal spa oasis. They also run yoga classes, organise day trips around the area and take guests on guided tours of the vineyard. It truly is an incredible stay in every conceivable way, and that's why we've teamed up with the boutique hotel to create a one-of-a-kind long weekend package that includes a two-night stay, a wine tasting experience at its own cellar door, daily breakfasts at Doot Doot Doot and a whole host of extra bits. This is perfect for those wanting to relax in style, filling their days with sensational food and wine. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
If you're travelling around the world on a budget but are looking for some exciting places to stay that are a little out of the ordinary, then these boutique hostels will be up your alley. Offering more than your everyday bunk rooms, these spots are creative, fun and don't follow preconceptions of what the average hostel entails. Be sure to book yourself a bed in one of these amazing locations on your next trip. Jumbo Stay - Stockholm, Sweden Jumbo Stay, situated at the entrance to the Arlanda Airport, houses guests in a real Boeing jumbo jet plane, which was stripped of its seating and revamped to accommodate up to 76 guests. Radeka Downunder - Cooper Pedy, Australia An opal mine was transformed in the mid 1980s into 10 motel rooms, 12 budget rooms & 12 dormitories, with some rooms as far as 6.5 metres underground. Kadir's Tree Houses - Olympos, Turkey This award winning holiday stay on the majestic Mediterranean coastline caters for those yearning to sleep in an adult treehouse. Railway Square - Sydney, Australia Near Sydney's Central Station lies a YHA Hostel which allows guests to stay in the funky railway carriages of former Platform Zero. Carbisdale Castle - Kyle of Sutherland, Scotland The Carbisdale Castle was built between 1906-1917 for the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland after her step-son effectively kicked her out of their castle. The castle was gifted in 1945 to the Scottish Youth Hostel Association and has since been housing backpackers who can marvel at the 365 windows, magnificent marble statues or priceless paintings. Mellow Eco-Hostel - Barcelona, Spain The charm of this vibrant eco-hostel is almost unparalleled due to its location away from crowded tourist spots, surrounded by Guinardo Park. Zhangzhou Wie Qun Lou Inn - Fujian Tulou, China A stunning marvel of architecture, the modern buildings in the mountainous areas of Fujian Tulou in China were originally built in 1802 as a symbol of the wisdom and diligence of the Hakka people. Hostel Celica - Ljubljana, Slovenia Each room at the Hostel Celica, a former military prison, has its own unique mosaics, artistry and architectural design. Point Montara Lighthouse Hostel - California, USA Originally established as a fog signal station in 1875, this hostel provides a little taste of history by allowing guests to stay in the former Coast Guard's quarters or the fog signal building. Hostel Brumund - Hedmark, Norway Known as 'The Pine Hut', this one-of-a-kind rustic Norwegian hostel has two cabins, which house 5 or 6 persons, that are perched 25 feet high on the branches of a 250 year old pine tree.
Were you a little underwhelmed with all the tech news this week? A new iPhone or fandangled watch from the future is great and all, but most of us aren't all that up for throwing another $1000 at Apple. If so, here's a little piece of the tech revolution that won't leave you bankrupt (except maybe morally so). The world is about to get it's very first GIF keyboard for iPhones. The upcoming app PopKey will be available for those using the new iOS 8 and will enable users to save, select and send a variety of GIFs in exactly the way they currently use the emoji keyboard. Just like emojis, the GIFs will be organised into different sections. Categories supposedly include 'LOL', 'shocked', 'facepalm' and 'swag'. Basically, your phone will no longer be a means to communicate and articulate yourself with loved ones, it will be an interactive version of Buzzfeed. We have a lot of feels about this. At first we were nerdily excited. Then we remembered how people over-do it with emojis. GIF onslaughts could be a whole new level of crazy. Finally, we realised there's no other option than deleting our younger siblings numbers from our phones completely. But aside from all that, it's a pretty excellent concept. In addition to the library of GIFs you accumulate yourself, the app will update in realtime with those which are currently trending online. This means you'll be the first to know when Jennifer Lawrence or Tina Fey do something quirky, or the internet goes crazy for whatever this creepy thing with Emma Watson was all about. iOS 8 is set to launch on Wednesday, September 17 and PopKey shouldn't be too far behind it. Soon you can test out the technology for yourself. Give up your beloved red salsa lady emoji for a bit of Queen Bey. Let Emma Stone communicate your approval from here on out. Either that or throw your iPhone off a bridge. This is the way of the world now. Via Mashable.
We're understandably sceptical about most tech things that are promised to us. Australians are always the last to get blockbuster films and critically-acclaimed television shows, we're geo-blocked from most great things online, and we pay depressingly more than the rest of the world for all our tech and entertainment goodies. It's a tough hand we've been dealt; one so bad we've taken to just skirting the system completely and either sneakily paying for overseas services like Netflix or becoming all-out pirates. But here's some good news: it looks as though the latest streaming service being shoved in our faces won't completely suck. Joining the iffy selection of commercial Australian streaming services like Quickflix and Foxtel's Presto, Fairfax and Channel Nine's new venture looks like a winner. Launching in February 2015, it's been announced the service will offer on demand viewing with no ads and no contract, it will have a fixed fee of about $10 per month, and it'll be exclusively airing the much-anticipated Breaking Bad spin-off, Better Call Saul at the same time as the US. High fives all 'round, people. This is all every sneaky Australian Netflix user has ever wanted. In fact, to put some icing on the already spectacularly delicious cake, this new platform will also have all five seasons of Breaking Bad in its catalogue and will be revealing one more awesome show every week 'til its launch next year. If there's one thing that's holding it back, it's the name. Though it was previously referred to as StreamCo, today it was announced that this new platform will officially be called Stan. That's right, your new favourite late-night best bud/ultimate time waster will share a name with a melodramatic late '90s rap collaboration from Eminem and Dido. "[We wanted a name] that consumers could actually associate with and actually have a character with," said CEO Mike Sneesby. "Stan is not going to be a character in itself but a brand that will build its own character in being truly Australian." Regardless of that ridiculous logic, this is still a service we can get behind. Though details of the Australian Netflix launch have not yet been announced, at $10 a month Stan would actually be competitive with the US version of Netflix which Australians currently (somewhat dubiously) access for around $9. These price points are also well below the $29.99 fee Quickflix users fork over monthly. So really, it's not so bad. It's not so bad.
Artist Nalini Malani's Mother India: transactions in the construction of pain tackles the violence during the partition of India into India and Pakistan in 1947. Rape and violence by both sides laid the groundwork for a lot of current tensions and traumatised or killed a lot of ordinary people along the way. Mother India is especially interested in what happened to the women of both sides, both before and after the violence. Paid for by money from the Gallery's Contempo program, this video installation consists of five oversize video panels along the back wall. Black and white street scenes pass as voices speak in the background. One voice reassures us, a woman screams "Get off me! Get off me!" Meanwhile we see images of the everyday: everyday men and women on street, everyday protest, everyday blue cows. The violence of partition was horrific, but for an audience neither raised nor schooled with this history, Mother India doesn't suggest enough of everyday life before the violence, which makes it hard for the peace to dissolve into the horror of what had been normal being broken in two. Also in the exhibition is a wall-spanning work by Hema Upadhyay, the fantastic Mute Migration. This work is a giant city map hung sideways on five black panels. It is Dharavi, a Mumbai slum and one of the world's largest slum districts. The houses are picked out as three dimensional tiny models topped with real aluminium rooves in yellow, blue, brown, and bare metal. The minarets of green mosques are dotted everywhere, among tiered apartment blocks and white-roofed official buildings. Another section of the slum has shanties built on shanties built on shanties. Black paint snakes between these low-rise blocks like streets or a river. Like their real life counterparts, these slums are ramshackle, vivacious and seething. Where Mother India alludes at the depravities of nation building, Upadhyay demonstrates. Image: Mother India: transactions in the construction of pain 2005 by Nalini Malani.
As a kid, your idea of the perfect getaway probably would have included only a few simple things, like proximity to the closest milk bar and easy access to the nearest beach or lake. But as you've matured, so have your tastes and expectations. Now you want only the best, don't you? Luckily, Australia has no shortage of lavish retreats to discover in every corner of the country. From safari-style glamping along Western Australia's vibrant Ningaloo Reef to a rugged private island off the Tasmanian coast, there are ways you can seriously treat yourself — and see some of Australia's most stunning scenes at the same time. With that in mind, we've hunted down seven luxury locations that will have you refreshed and rejuvenated. Everyone deserves a little five-star escape every now and then. [caption id="attachment_720489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] SAL SALIS NINGALOO REEF SAFARI CAMP, WA Hidden between sand dunes in the Cape Range National Park, Sal Salis is a beachside eco safari camp like no other. The 15 luxury wilderness tents take glamping to a whole new level, with breezy openair bathrooms, handmade timber beds and absolutely unbeatable views of the Indian Ocean, which is conveniently located only a few steps away from your sleeping quarters. There are outdoor activities aplenty, though swimming with whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins would certainly be at the top of our list. The main lodge also offers the perfect place to unwind with fantastic regional wines, WA seafood, and a rustic wooden outdoor deck that offers the ultimate vantage point to see the Milky Way in all its glory. Ningaloo Reef is one of our top places to visit in Australia in 2023, and Sal Salis would have to be the greatest place to stay in the region. THE CAPE AT WATEGOS, BYRON BAY If you're after a laidback luxury stay with uninterrupted sea views, then these Byron Bay lodges should more than do the trick. The Cape at Wategos sits above the area's much-loved Wategos Beach (backed by a national park) and is super close to a bunch of great restaurants and bars. It has the ideal blend of feeling totally remote but still close to Byron Bay's fun stuff. Choose from one of the two-bedroom suites — each with massive private decks overlooking the beach — or go for the large Residence that sleeps up to six guests. Expect stark white interiors, Hampton-style furnishings, spacious kitchens and living areas, an infinity swimming pool and comfy king-sized beds. Either spend all your days up at the lodges or take a short walk down for afternoons of swimming and surfing with mates. LONGITUDE 131, YULARA, NT No matter where you're standing, the mammoth form of Uluru is always an incredible sight to behold. But some vantage points are better than others — and if we had to pick, we'd say Longitude 131 has the best. Luxury tents (if you can even call them that) sprawl across the red desert in the shadow of the ancient Kata Tjuṯa. Every one comes with indulgent elements like floor-to-ceiling windows, a soft daybed, a rain shower and a coffee machine — not to mention the free-standing tub in the sprawling Dune Pavilion that we would definitely try to take home with us if it was remotely possible. The best part? There are no televisions and no radios, so you'll be in complete quiet and solitude. It is clear to see why it's one of the best glamping spots in all of Australia. [caption id="attachment_557208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elise Hassey[/caption] SATELLITE ISLAND, TASMANIA If you've ever read Journey to the End of the Earth and thought 'that sounds like fun' then you're going to love Satellite Island. Lined with rugged cliffs that dip into clear blue waters and teeming with native wildlife, the 34-hectare landmass is located along the southeastern coast of Tasmania in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and is only accessible by private boat. Whether you're catching your own fish off of the island's single jetty, foraging for ingredients in the veggie patch or learning how to shuck your own oysters, you'll probably try to set up a makeshift cabin so you never have to leave this tranquil paradise. PS EMMYLOU, MURRAY RIVER According to the PS Emmylou team, this is the world's only accommodated woodfire paddle steamer. You'll slowly float along the Murray River in this newly kitted-out boat, stopping off at small towns and natural sites to do some light exploring. Grab one of the eight luxe cabins, dine on the back of the boat (with food and drinks included in the ticket price) and take part in a series of tours around the Murray River region. This will include leisurely hikes, winery tours and special dinners on the banks of the river. But the best thing to do is simply grab a seat on your balcony — if you get the luxury suite — and spend the day reading and drinking in the sunshine. It has to be the best way to see this marvellous part of Australia. JACKALOPE, MORNINGTON PENINSULA, VICTORIA Situated in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula wine region, Jackalope Hotel has raised the bar for luxury retreats in the area. The first thing that greets you on arrival is a grandiose seven-metre-tall sculpture of a jackalope — the mythical horned rabbit after which the surrealist hotel is named — and things only get more extravagant from there. From the 30-metre-long infinity pool with lush vineyard views to the hotel's extensive art collection, opulent spa and two top-quality restaurants, you won't have to leave the grounds if you don't want to. [caption id="attachment_720481" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Aitchison and Baille Lodge via Destination NSW[/caption] CAPELLA LODGE, LORD HOWE ISLAND Operating for over a decade now, Capella Lodge is one of Australia's most well-known hotels — and, thanks to a cheeky $4 million makeover a few years ago, it's also one of the country's most lavish. Visitors are treated to inspiring views of the island's twin peaks, Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird, as well as the world's southernmost coral reef in the Pacific Ocean. The beach is only a stone's throw away when you feel like a swim, though the plunge pool is just as refreshing. Plus, you can do this epic hike and then head straight to the spa for a hot stone massage that'll have you feeling stress-free for weeks. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Longitude 131.
Cornucopias of cheese, rich roast lamb dinners, creamy Chardonnays — Orange is officially the new black. Grown from a rich mining past, Orange is now known as the 'food basket' of NSW, a title not halfheartedly earned. Wine is the obvious breadwinner, but it's not where the culinary adventure stops. From local produce-focused restaurants in reclaimed police stations to slick B&Bs in former sheep shearing sheds, to cellar doors in 1890s primary schools, Orange has seized its history with two, soil-happy hands and cultivated the modern foodie Mecca it is today. Just a four-hour drive from Sydney, or eight from Melbourne, Orange is in a prime spot for a seriously food and wine-drenched weekend away. You'll roll back to Sydney with a belly full of wine, cheese and lamb, your boot brimming with new wine variety favourites and your respect for Chardonnay restored. DRINK: WINE, WINE, WINE First piece of Orange advice: forget everything you know about Chardonnay. Second? You're going to taste some Australia's best, best, best wines in one weekend, so bring some Berocca and start fighting over who's designated driver. Orange is a pretty chilly place and sits over 600 metres above sea level. This means whites, sparkling and Pinot Noir country. Orange has a great many wineries, so it can be hard to know where to start (tip: just time your visit with the Orange Wine Festival). But most wineries offer free maps of the region, so start with one and take it from there. First up, let's visit Julie and Peter Mortimer, owners of Mortimers of Orange. A former Canterbury Bankstown Bulldog and extremely cheery gent, Peter Mortimer has left his NRL career behind for a life of exceedingly good Sauvignon Blanc with his wife and their five sons — and he can spin quite the yarn during a tasting, accompanied by his golden retriever, Bonnie. After planting their first vineyard in '96, the Mortimers bought the public school next door and turned it into their cellar door. There's nothing like a morning tasting with cheese and crackers where many an assembly has met. Next, we're off to Colmar Estate, run by Bill and Jane Schrapnel, two of the most knowledgable perfectionists in the game. Moving to Orange from Beecroft in Sydney, the Schrapnels have created one stunning vineyard you can can see most of right from the cellar door. But if you miss out on hitting Phillip Shaw's Cellar Door, you're doing it wrong. Shaw knows the wine game like the back of his hand, making wine since he was 12 and winning awards left right and centre for the family's celebrated varieties. You've never had Chardonnay like this, let me tell you. One of Shaw's lovely sons, Daniel, took us through the winery, past the fermenting room and to the barrels, where he gave us a taste of young Shiraz right out of the barrel. Holy. Grapes. More local wineries to note include Heifer Station Wines, run by the incredibly lovely Michelle and Philip Stivens, and the eclectic Bloodwood (appointment only). EAT: EVERYTHING YOU CAN CONSUME THAT ISN'T WINE If you think hitting the all-you-can-eat Pizza Hut is your first port of call in Orange, hold that thought. Orange is home to some of the most genuinely kickass restaurants in the game, and one of the key players is Union Bank, the newest guardians of Orange's historic former police station, school of the arts, bank and then some, owned by Nick and Emma Bacon, chef and sommelier respectively. Pull up a pew in UB's warm-lit, homey space and feast on octopus with smoked macadamia and turnip pickle, bone marrow with salsa roja, a whole chicken with garlic sauce and sumac, and a sirloin served with a miso bagna cauda, all spruced up with produce from the kitchen garden (just 15 metres from the actual kitchen). If you're serious about your food, you must take a trip to Milthorpe, a wonderfully quaint little town with a population of 650 just 15 minutes outside Orange. For breakfast, make sure you book ahead at The Old Mill Cafe, a beautiful old-fashioned tearoom whose lemon meringue pies need to be seen to be believed (and Instagrammed). But you absolutely cannot leave without visiting Tonic. Established in 2003 by owners Tony and Nicole Worland, one-hatted wonder Tonic brings both locals and foodie pilgrims alike. Tony boasts quite the resume, having worked beside the likes of Matt Moran, Michael Manners and Gordon Ramsay, so expect ambitious food that showcases local producers. If you're looking for a hit of caffeine between tastings, Orange isn't just letting the coffee scene go unperfected. Head to Bills Beans in east Orange, a former butcher's shop converted into a buzzing cafe owned by young guns Ricky Carver and Carlie Beer. Their lively barista Eric knows everyone's name and sings along to Toploader's 'Dancin' in the Moonlight' while making one of the best coffees you'll have in an age. Feast on freshly-made nosh like juicy, cheesy mushroom toasties, melt-in-your-mouth homemade pumpkin quiches and perfect, perfect scrolls. Also recommended, Good Eddy. For all your take-home local goodies, The Agrestic Grocer in town. EXPLORE: LOLLY SHOPS TO ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM It's worth inhaling more than edible and drinkable goods on your trip to Orange, especially if you're a history buff, art fan or general lover of all things vintage. Orange has a few great local galleries, including The Corner Store Gallery in east Orange. Exhibitions change every three weeks and range from James Kearns' abstract expressionist landscapes to Isobella Grist's smart collages. If you're a bit of a history nut, let's start with the fact that you're struttin' around in Banjo Patterson's birthplace (yes, there's a poetry festival, if you're wondering). After you've wandered through Orange's city centre, with many beautiful old buildings (one particularly good example in the middle of Kinross Wolaroi School), head straight for Orange's teeny neighbour, Milthorpe. We're talking antique shops, adorable design store Tomolly, a bowling club and cellar doors aplenty, like Orange heavyweights Angullong or Slow Wine Co. STAY: SHEEP SHEDS TO COUNTRY LOFTS As far as snuggly country accomodation goes, Orange has some pretty beautiful spots to kip. If you're up for a true country stay with every last modern convenience, head for the award-winning Black Sheep Inn just 9km west of Orange on Heifer Station Lane, owned by the lovely Helen and Andrew Napier. Originally a 1900s sheep shearing shed, most of the original features have been preserved — along with a wrought iron fireplace. The Inn has five snug suites, each boasting original rolling shed doors instead of blinds (a very sweet feature). Corrugated iron runs the interior design, offset with modern steel trimmings and crisp white sheets. Helen served us brekkie in the morning, a three-course feast from poached pears with straight-up insane homemade lemon curd, to freshly-toasted sourdough with unbelievably delicious homemade apricot jam. If you're headed for the quaint country streets of Milthorpe, there's plenty of boutique accomodation to snuggle into and forget you ever had some kind of job to return to. While you can take over an entire old chemist at Hockey's Accommodation, we made a temporary home of the Millthorpe Motel, a collection of 20 modern, homey rooms, from basic studio rooms to loft apartments that feel like your very own little ski lodge. Think comfy armchairs, luxe white bedding, and an easy stroll to Tonic, to repeat yesterday's belt-busting feast. Images: Andy Fraser. CP stayed, ate and wined as a guest of Orange360. For more information about Orange, head over here.
2023's inaugural SXSW Sydney saw everyone from Black Mirror's Charlie Brooker and Chance The Rapper to Future Today Institute founder and CEO Amy Webb and Nicole Kidman take to its stages. Who'll follow in their footsteps in 2024? That's the question now that the tech, innovation, screen, music, games and culture festival has confirmed that it will be back next year, running from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 after its first Down Under stint proved a success. "To say SXSW Sydney left a mark on the city in its inaugural year is an understatement. The team pulled together a remarkable grand-scale event that brought together APAC's creative communities in a way the region had never seen before," said SXSW Sydney Chair Geoff Jones, announcing the news. "We are thrilled to announce the dates for SXSW Sydney 2024 in partnership with the NSW Government, and look forward to opening more doors for innovators across the tech and innovation, music, screen, games and creative industries." Locking in SXSW Sydney's 2024 return and dates came with a few stats from the 2023 event, revealing that it notched up 287,014 attendances from 97,462 unique attendees. Those figures came from 34,975 total tickets, with folks from 41 countries heading along to 1178 sessions. It's too early for SXSW Sydney 2024 lineup drops yet, with applications for the event's Session Select, plus its music, screen and games showcases, set to open in 2024 — and badges due to go on sale then as well. Among its wealth of highlights, 2023's SXSW Sydney featured Brooker chatting about his hit series and technology's future; Chance The Rapper talking about 50 years of hip hop; Coachella CEO Paul Tollett discussing his own fest; Kidman exploring her work as a producer on the likes of Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, The Undoing and Love & Death; the Australian premiere of Kitty Green's The Royal Hotel; and the world premiere of The Wiggles documentary Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles. The full lineup spanned a 700-plus strong bill of talent, covering over 300 sessions, and featuring more than 300 gigs across 25 venues. From talks and concerts to films, TV shows and games, there was no shortage of things to see. That's all now in store again in 2024. SXSW Sydney 2024 will run from Monday, October 14–Sunday, October 20 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. Images: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney.
If you're the type of traveller who chooses their hotels for the perks and extra inclusions, then you'll be particularly excited about an upcoming new addition to Melbourne's accommodation offerings. Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer is set to launch sometime this May, marking the Swiss brand's second site in Australia, after Mövenpick Hotel Hobart opened earlier in the year — and if either the chain's name or its country of origin have you thinking of sweet treats, yes, they're part of the hotel's menu. For starters, Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne will be celebrating chocolate hour every afternoon. Going on the Hobart setup, that's when you'll receive a free dessert — such as an eclair, brownie or truffle — when you purchase a chocolate-flavoured cocktail, mocktail or affogato. Mövenpick's hotels all serve the brand's line of food and beverages as well, which means that Mövenpick ice cream is also available. The menu doesn't just cater to your sweet tooth, though. At breakfast, guests can choose to enjoy juice-blended energy shots, along with a range of health-focused and nutritious options available to eat in or grab-and-go. One of more than 80 of the brand's accommodation sites worldwide and run in collaboration with Accor, Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne will boast 172 guest rooms housed within the new 78-storey Premier Tower development on Spencer Street. It's decked out with boutique interiors, and comes complete with a 25-metre swimming pool, sauna and gym. The new hotel will also be home to a southeast Asian restaurant and bar, which'll rock a contemporary fitout courtesy of design agency Greymatters. It's slated to plate up traditional Asian grill and barbecue dishes, and will open daily for lunch and dinner. Find Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer at 160 Spencer Street, Melbourne, from May 2021. Head to the Accor website for bookings and other information. Images: artists impressions of Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer.
It has been more than two decades since James Cameron, Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet recreated one of the deadliest ship disasters in modern history. You know the one. Titanic also launched a lifetime of folks standing at the bow of boats and exclaiming "I'm the king of the world!", and made the world endure a Celine Dion song that, as the lyrics promised, would go on. As well as snagging a huge bag of Oscars and big, big bucks at the box office, the film did something else: reignite public fascination with the 1912 sinking. If you've ever watched and wondered what it'd be like to see the real thing, then wonder no more — because you can become a 'citizen scientist' on a new series of underwater expeditions to the famed wreck. Commencing in 2021, underwater exploration company Ocean Gate Expeditions will be taking fascinated seafarers down to the famous ship on ten-day journeys. They'll dive almost four kilometres deep into the North Atlantic Ocean in a titanium and carbon fibre submersible — accompanied by experts, naturally — to peer through the vessel that went down on its maiden voyage, taking more than 1500 people with it. This isn't a tourist trip, however. Ocean Gate is planning six missions as part of an overall Titanic survey expedition, and anyone who'd like to go along will need to apply. If you're successful, you'll be trained a mission specialist — and you'll be asked to help document the current state of the sunken passenger liner, including via laser scans and 4K video that will be combined with high-resolution images to make a 3D virtual model of the ship. Primarily departing from the coast of Newfoundland in Canada from May–July 2021, with more missions planned in 2022 as well, these undersea trips don't come cheap — even though they're motivated by scientific and record-keeping aims. You'll need a cool US$125,000 per person to make the voyage, which includes one submersible dive to the ship. Of course, it's hardly surprising that plunging deep into both the ocean's depths to visit a famed wreck costs a massive stack of cash and then some. This isn't the first time tours have been offered — indeed, presumably using some of the loot his romantic drama pulled in, James Cameron has made the journey multiple times — but only a small number of people have seen site in person since it was first discovered in 1984. "More people summit Everest in a day than have ever seen the Titanic," says Ocean Gate Expeditions president Stockton Rush. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH_9Q3Z_xok Top image: NOAA/Institute for Exploration/University of Rhode Island via Wikimedia Commons.
Ashfield locals looking to expand their coffee palette can head to Ashfield Apothecary on Charlotte Street. After opening in November 2019, the cafe has ensured the leafy inner west suburb has stayed caffeinated through multiple lockdowns. Here, you'll find a rotating roster of roasters, with the cafe spotlighting different coffee-makers from near and afar including an international coffee bean every second month. All the coffee is sourced from small-batch and ethical coffee suppliers. While coffee is the focus, there is a reserved menu of cafe favourites to compliment your cup of joe. You'll find smashed avo topped with heirloom tomatoes, pickled onion, Persian feta and chilli ($15) or a classic brekkie roll that's been taken up a notch with overnight cured pastrami, fried egg, kale, bush tomato relish and homemade Sriracha mayo. Vegans and vegetarians can opt for the seasonal vegan bowl, in which you'll find the likes of beetroot hummus, kale, avocado, edamame and roasted nuts. Or, if you're looking to indulge your sweet tooth, turn to the Persian love cake ($7) which is made in-house and sold every Friday and Saturday. Get in early though, as it's known to sell out. Follow the cafe on Instagram to find the latest coffee on offer and swing past to try your daily cappuccino with a new type bean.
Google has just released photos of their in-the-works augmented reality glasses prototype. And while the glasses might not be the sexiest on the market, they certainly have functional appeal. The initiative, 'Project Glass', represents the company's first attempt at a wearable product. The glasses appear and function much like regular eyeglasses...that is, if your eyeglasses' lens could stream video, text messages, maps, and the weather forecast - all in real time. Operating via voice command, these glasses can also record video or take pictures of what is being viewed through them. Project Glass' Google Plus press release stated the initiative's belief that, "technology should work for you - to be there when you need it and get out of your way when you don't." The beta release of the glasses is expected to generate conversation and feedback to the company about what customers would like to see from Project Glass. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9c6W4CCU9M4 [via PSFK]
Have you ever dreamed of having ice cream for dinner? Well, your wish is Messina Creative's command. Big changes are happening at the gelato masters' Marrickville HQ with the launch of a Sydney exclusive pop-up: the SnackBar, where wines, bites, scoops and tunes are on the menu every Sunday from 4pm–late. For anyone who has been pining for a seat at one of Messina Creative's coveted six-course degustations, the SnackBar offers an accessible alternative, giving diners the chance to dip a toe into the world of gourmet gelato. Expect elevated, bespoke flavours, including spiced dark chocolate gelato with olive oil and sea salt and smooth coconut sorbet with caramelised mango liqueur. In addition to these chilled treats, guests can sip natural drops and enjoy other delicious snacks, such as prawn toast with tomato sriracha and the Messina glizzy with Emilio's pork sausage, spiced ketchup and mustard. Setting the mood, low-fi tunes will also be pumping from the venue's Pitt and Giblin sound system (one of the few residing in Sydney). Access is strictly limited to patrons aged 18 and over, so be sure to leave the rugrats at home.
In the ever-dynamic arms race to create Sydney's best sandwich, it's not easy to make a product that sticks out against so much delicious competition. But Chandni and Ankit, the wife-and-husband co-owners of Pyrmont's newly opened Eat Ozzo, have come up with something special. Ask any restauranter: the secret to sandwiches is the bread. So why opt for another crunchy cracked sourdough or doughy milk toast when you can have your sandwich in 48-hour fermented Neopolitan bread instead? It all started with an aha moment on a trip to Italy, where the duo first bit into Neopolitan pizza bread. After months of research into breadmaking, the couple took a secondhand oven to Pyrmont's Pirrama Park to give away sandwiches for free in search of feedback. Once they decided they were onto something, they committed to the idea full time. The Ozzo bread goes through a meticulous preparation process, with 48 hours of hot and cold fermentation to reduce the weight in the bread and improve its impact on gut health. Bread is baked fresh to order, and you'll find a multicultural mix of fillings to choose from. The Porchetta Fiasco, for example, features marinated crispy pork belly, 'nduja, herb gremolata, spicy eggplant and braised greens. While the Bresaola Affair is packed with Korean wagyu bresaola, whipped ricotta, smoked eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers and rocket. All ingredients are sourced from local suppliers, including butter and cream from Pepe Saya, cheese from Marrickville's Vanella and Haberfield's Paesanella and pistachio butter from Gelato Messina. There's nothing fried on the menu, and artificial additives are also avoided. You can opt for breakfast fillings before 11am, with bacon and egg, smashed avo and Persian feta among the options. And if the sandwiches look too sizeable to handle, go for a smaller Junior Ozzo instead, which can come with za'atar, Pepe Saya Butter, Messina hazlenut paste, forest berries and more. The menu features nods to tradition, too, with eight-inch folded pizzinos (inspired by Naples' famed street food pizza al portafoglio) available during the day, and 13-inch 'neo-Neopolitan' pizzas available after dark. On the drinks front, you'll find Five Senses coffee, as well as cold drinks like strawberry matcha and virgin mojitos all day long. For a sweeter finish — get a slice of cake to round out your meal. Find Eat Ozzo at Level G/80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont — open from 7am–7pm Sunday and Monday, and 7am–11pm Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, visit the venue's website.
Until recently, unless you were after a grade A cup of joe from Coffee Alchemy or had a hankering for Sunday market corn fritters, Addison Road was not a destination for a hot injection of food. But since Bazaari opened its ornate doors a few months ago, that lowly road in Marrickville is finally worth the hike. Tucked away between industrial laundries and seafood wholesalers, the new Cypriot-Australian eatery is the joint venture of ex-Quay chef Darryl Martin and host Andrew Jordanou. The two have curated an intimate dining experience serving up a particularly adventurous menu of modernised Greek, Cyrpiot, Turkish and Lebanese cuisines. The modern fit-out is welcoming with exposed brick, low lighting and a wood fire in the centre of the open plan kitchen. It's here at the oven where meats are roasted for hours and chewy pita breads studded with nigella seeds are made to order. Like all eateries opened in the last few years, the chefs at Barzaari serve up dishes designed to share, but thankfully the portions are on the generous side, so it's safe to take even your hungriest of friends. If you're keen to start your meal sipping on something a little fancy, the Marrickville Sunrise is a sweet liquid nod to the neighbourhood, and nicely complements the powerful flavours that characterise the entree dishes. The tiropitakia ($14) — impossibly crisp little cylinders stuffed with feta and spinach — arrive drizzled with honey, while the lamb breast is slow-cooked until tender and wrapped in the thinnest pastry, like some sort of delicious novelty meat cigar. The real highlight, however, is the piles of slow-roasted pork neck ($33) and lamb shoulder ($38). Although the wood-fired dishes are a little on the pricey side, the servings resemble meat mountains, served juicy with a decent slab of piping hot pita and a wedge of lemon. These dishes are so simple yet totally moreish — perfect for those who like to use copious amounts of bread to craft their own little makeshift meat sandwiches. As for sides, the tender mograbieh (a giant type of couscous) served with half a wood-fired butternut pumpkin ($15) is particularly hearty and would suit vegetarians in lieu of the aforementioned piles of meat. But our highlight was the classic kipfler potatoes ($11), cooked until crispy and golden and dusted with salt and rosemary — because at the end of the day, there's really no going past a giant bowl of roasted potatoes to accompany a heap of wood-fired meats. If you manage to save room for dessert, it's hard to pass up the impossibly smooth buttermilk custard ($14) cloaked with an anise syrup and a fresh scoop of apple tea sorbet. Barzaari is the perfect location for a Mediterranean feast with a group of pals or a romantic dinner for two providing you're both wearing elasticised eating pants. Fingers crossed the restaurant sets a trend for new little eateries emerging from the Addison Road culinary black hole.
This post is sponsored by our partners, Wotif.com. Adelaide born and bred, comedian and known barfly Cam Knight has seen the city at its best. Here are a few of his tips for making the most of your time in the understated SA capital. Stay in the city at one of the boutique accommodations, like the Adabco Boutique Hotel, which is set within the beauty of a Heritage-listed, 19th-century Venetian gothic style building. If that’s not your style, The Mayfair is a 1940s-inspired, Hollywood-style boutique hotel in the heart of the city — slated for completion in October of this year. Wake up with the best coffee at the Coffee Branch on Leigh Street in the West End. Owner Josh has the palate of a genius, the speed of a mouse on Red Bull and the memory of an elephant that just snorted a mouse on Red Bull. Hire a free bike. Sounds like an oxymoron but Adelaide City Bikes has a free bike hire scheme. The whole place is flat and gridded so it's impossible to (a) get exhausted or (b) get lost. Adelaide city is low density and it still has a lot of original buildings standing. You can explore North Adelaide, River Torrens, or the various parklands that surround the city and still have plenty of time left over for drinking (and eating). Take a stroll down Ebenezer Place. It feels like a little Melbourne-esque laneway hidden between Rundle and Grenfell Streets with a lot of quirky shops selling one-of-a-kind items well worth a gawp. You’ll want lunch or brunch, yeah? Hey Jupiter will serve you a delicious amount of French food without the snootiness. There’s also Nano. They make their very own bread and do simple, restrained, tasty Italian food. Get thee to a pub. Order a Coopers beer at The Austral or The Exeter on Rundle Streett, or turn a corner and head to The Crown & Anchor on Grenfell Streett. The Wheatsheaf out in Thebarton is the place for craft beer, and The Grace Emily on Waymouth Street is the best pub for live music. There’s a lot to chose from (or ‘heaps’, as the locals would say). Radelaidians are super-friendly people who will love to help you have a top night out. Feel free to start a conversation up wherever you go. Hunt out a different style of bar like Udaberri on Leigh Street in the West End, which has been made out of a shipping container. The food is pintxos, the Basque region’s version of tapas, or you can simply order a 1kg rib eye steak like a boss. Press Club Food & Wine do one of the best burgers in town and regularly change their beloved wine list. Take in a night of comedy at the Rhino Room on Frome Street. There are always big name comedians from interstate or overseas on, plus some excellent local acts. The Howling Owl Cafe downstairs is not only a cafe; it's a bar and an art gallery showcasing some very talented local artists. You’ll also find the Urban Cow Studio tucked in to this building. Their art gallery has an opening night on the first Wednesday of every month, which includes wine, music and fun. Their shop showcases jewellery and all sorts of exciting new work from emerging or established artists. Visit Adelaide when the Fringe is on. The festival is huge — it’s like a circus exploded in the East Parklands. There are over 900 different events to choose from, including cabaret, magic shows, circus, comedians, puppetry, dance and so much more. Check out shows running late into the night at Rhino Room, Producers Bar, Gluttony and The Garden Of Earthly Delights. Rundle Street usually closes to traffic at night over the Fringe weekends, so you can roam the streets in a bleary haze taking in the energy of it all without fear of being run over. Get out to McLaren Vale for a day or two. It’s easily one of Australia’s greatest wine regions and is seriously only about 35 mins south from the city. Some of the vineyards, like Chapel Hill, have accommodation which are very handy post tasting tour for a cheeky nap. Spoiler: it’s almost impossible to feel hung over waking up to the beautiful landscape of the Adelaide Hills. Don’t believe me? Check this out. Do a tasting tour or have a very, very understanding friend or partner who elects to drive you around. Coriole, Samuel’s Gorge, Alpha Box & Dice, Primo Estate, Chapel Hill and D’Arenburg should get you going. If you get chatting with the wine makers they may have a few drinks with you and recommend some top places to visit, whilst also letting you into their intriguing world. Grab a bite at The Famous Star of Greece in Port Willunga, perched atop the cliffs looking out to one of the most stunning ocean views whilst savouring the freshest seafood around. Sounds terrible, huh?
Staves Brewery's opening marked the newest wave of microbreweries popping up in the craft beer haven that is the inner west. Snugged next to Broadway Shopping Centre on Grose Street, this is possibly the most unconventional spot for a brewpub yet. There is nothing to denote the speakeasy-style brewery apart from the words 'bar' and 'brewery' painted on the otherwise frosted windows. The building itself still has features from its steel fabrication workshop days, and the simple, barrel-focused interior is reminiscent of an English pub of old. It's not such a surprising venture from British owner Steven Drissell, whose impressive rap sheet boasts competitive beer judge, long time craft beer enthusiast and, of course, brewer. Staves will continue to operate as a brewpub while Drissell ultimately transforms the space into a fully functioning brewery with his own batches of craft on tap. For now, the eight taps will continue to rotate with a ton of local talent like Wayward and Modus Operandi, as well as killer out-of-towners like Little Brewing and Nail. Pints range from $11-15, and jugs from $19-26. Drissell only buys one keg at a time to keep his taps fresh, attracting patrons that return each week to see what's new. As Drissell puts it, he's "focused on creating a balanced beer menu that reaches every palate, whether it's that of a craft beer know-it-all or a new beer drinker". The place will continue to grow organically; the beer garden is already expanding with more greenery and personality, and the live music will come to include jam session nights. While patrons are still anxiously awaiting the opening of the upstairs pizza kitchen, Staves offers a cheese and meat board in the meantime ($20), giving patrons something to nibble on while they get stuck in. Cheese aside, our favourite addition to the brewpub is the introduction of two-for-one pints on Thursdays from 4-6pm. Yeah, that's a lot of beer. Bring a friend — or don't. We won't judge.
Marrickville's 20 Chapel – which we love for its potato wedges and many cuts of Blackmore wagyu cooked over woodfire – has now gone bottomless. Every Saturday from midday, you can book in for endless prosecco, wine and beer, while working your way through an irresistible set menu. Leading the way are the wedges. They're so good because they're brined overnight, before being parboiled, blast-chilled and deep-fried in wagyu tallow – then served with Coppertree Farm creme fraiche infused with house-made caramelised chilli. Were that the only dish on the set menu, we wouldn't be complaining. But there's way more to try, starting with a trio of seafood delights. Abrolhos Island scallops come with spicy harissa butter, while garlic prawns arrive in a pot sprinkled with white pepper and garlic chives. Then there's the delightful raw fish 'Kokoda' with sweet potato, coconut and sago. Come mains, choose between the 20 Chapel Wagyu Burger or the CopperTree Farms beef fillet with shimeji mushrooms and marsala, before rounding off with the chocolate custard and marmalade flan. All this will set you back just $95 (including an hour and 45 minutes of bottomless beverages). For an extra $30, you can be sipping seasonal cocktails as well.
Mark Friday, April 12, 2024 in your diary: that's when Fallout will jump from gaming's bunker to streaming's landscape. After 2023 saw The Last of Us leap from mashed buttons to a TV sensation for HBO, 2024 now has a big candidate to follow in its footsteps, this time via Prime Video. It's been almost three decades since Fallout first hit computers back in 1997, with three released sequels, a fourth on the way and seven spinoffs all following. Next comes a live-action television take starring Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets), Walton Goggins (I'm a Virgo) and Kyle MacLachlan (Lucky Hank). After dropping its first images earlier this week, the Fallout TV series now has a trailer — and it nails the game's aesthetic, sound and vibe. Fans of the Fallout game will already know the show's setting: a post-apocalyptic future. The series takes place 200 years after everything went pear-shaped, with people living in luxe fallout shelters ever since. When some such folks leave their cosy confines, they find a hellscape filled with mutants, wild west vibes and plenty of violence. Purnell plays vault-dweller Lucy, while Twin Peaks great MacLachlan is her dad Overseer Hank, who — as his name suggests — oversees Vault 33. On the surface, Goggins is bounty hunter The Ghoul, who has a secret past — and Aaron Moten (Emancipation) also has a pivotal part as Brotherhood of Steel soldier Maximus. The retrofuturistic dystopian series also features Moisés Arias (Samaritan), Sarita Choudhury (And Just Like That...), Michael Emerson (Evil), Leslie Uggams (Extrapolations), Frances Turner (The Boys), Dave Register (Heightened), Zach Cherry (Severance) and Johnny Pemberton (Weird: The Al Yankovic Story) as well — plus Rodrigo Luzzi (Dead Ringers), Annabel O'Hagan (Dear Edward) and Xelia Mendes-Jones (The Wheel of Time). For The Last of Us, HBO enlisted a creative force from one of the US premium cable network's past hits in Chernobyl's Craig Mazin. Prime Video has done the same with Fallout, but with Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy — who also executive produced Prime Video's own The Peripheral. As well as executive producing with Joy, Nolan directs the first three episodes. Geneva Robertson-Dworet (Captain Marvel) and Graham Wagner (Silicon Valley) are similarly among Fallout's executive producers, as well as the series' writers and co-showrunners. And yes, Bethesda Game Studios has a hand in finally bringing the games to the screen. Check out the first trailer for Fallout below: Fallout will start streaming via Prime Video from Friday, April 12, 2024. Images: courtesy of Prime Video.
