Let the games begin: Squid Game: The Challenge, that is, and IRL rather than in a fictionalised thriller. When Squid Game became one of Netflix's biggest successes, a reality show that riffed on the concept was always going to happen. There's no death here, but there's still 456 players competing for a huge cash prize while wearing green tracksuits, being overseen by red-clad figures, and playing hopscotch, marbles, sugar honeycombs and tug of war. The reality competition TV show received the green light back in 2022, after the streaming platform had also confirmed that a second season of Squid Game itself was on its way. In June 2023, Netflix also announced that Squid Game: The Challenge would arrive in November. Then, it locked in Wednesday, November 22 as the spinoff's launch date, and dropped a teaser trailer. Now, a full sneak peek is here — and, sans murder, it looks exactly like its inspiration. If you're one of the hordes of viewers who watched Squid Game when it instantly became one of the best new TV programs of 2021, as we all are, then you'll understand the concept at the heart of Squid Game: The Challenge. As seen in the two glimpses at the show ahead of its arrival, the whole pesky compete-to-the-death angle is missing, obviously, but everything about the series is as everyone expects. The outfits, the games, the decor, the music and, yes, the notorious Red Light, Green Light doll: they're all accounted for. And the prize? $4.56 million, aka the biggest cash prize in reality-show history. How does it work? Again, you already know the details. Those 456 folks — all ordinary people, and not actors — will try to score the $4.56 million by playing a series of games inspired by the extremely fictional South Korean thriller, as well as a few new additions. Also, competitors will be eliminated as the games go on, and forming strategies and alliances will play a huge part. So, Squid Game: The Challenge is clearly designed to get as close to the OG Squid Game as possible, just without the body count. It's all being overseen by a Front Man, too, because of course it is. The results will unfurl over ten episodes, in what Netflix has dubbed "the biggest reality competition series ever". Well, it certainly has the biggest cast. Making a gripping and brutal TV show that satirises capitalism, then bringing its games into real life does sound like something that might happen in Squid Game itself if the show was getting meta. "This is a savage game," one of the contestants in the new trailer offers — but, again, viewers already know that. Check out the trailer for Squid Game: The Challenge: Squid Game: The Challenge will stream via Netflix in on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Squid Game's first season is available to stream via Netflix . Images: Netflix.
There's a good chance you've witnessed a superyacht cruising across Sydney Harbour. Now you have the opportunity to climb aboard for a ride with Solaré – a lavish culinary experience redefining hospitality on the water. Boarding in late summer 2025, the ultra-luxe 150-foot vessel will serve as a glamorous venue, with each of its three levels offering an immersive hospitality event. Inspired by sun-drenched sailing trips along the Italian Riviera, Solaré allows guests to soak up that same timeless elegance and laid-back luxury, even if only for a rarified moment. With the enchanting atmosphere of the Mediterranean in mind, you can expect a similar kind of concept reflected in the cuisine, with executive chef Pablo Tordesillas delivering an indulgent dining experience. On the main deck, a sophisticated dining room invites guests to explore contemporary coastal Italian cuisine through a swanky tasting menu ($185pp). Available for either a 3-hour lunch or sunset dinner cruise, each dish evokes a dreamy seaside feast and is driven by seasonal produce and complemented by Mediterranean wines curated by Ed Loveday. Dine in style with starters like brioche and amaebi prawn, then dive into mains such as reginette with Moreton Bay bug or raw tuna with pomelo and fennel pollen. When it's time to socialise, a 'Cruise Pass' ($50pp) offers three hours access to the terrace on the middle deck. Here, guests will find a vibrant cocktail bar alongside à la carte snacks that pair with the endless sunshine and sea breeze. For those looking for an even more lavish journey, a members-only sun deck inspired by Balinese beach clubs offers custom-designed daybeds and booths. From this opulent vantage point, guests will catch panoramic harbour views while enjoying Don Julio 1942 Rosado and plates of fritto misto. "In today's fast-paced world, true luxury is having the time to slow down and enjoy amazing food and drinks with friends. Onboard Solaré, our motto for guests is 'Let's do less'. Time slows down and the sunshine, sea breeze and spectacular views provide the perfect escape from daily life," said Solaré's founder, Scott Robertson. Alongside a distinct culinary offering, Solaré's sprawling interiors have also been thoughtfully imagined by leading interior designer, Alex Zabotto-Bentley. Conjuring the warmth of the Mediterranean and stylish details from Venetian bars, hardwood teak furniture and solid green onyx are just some of the high-end materials used to blend nostalgia with contemporary lifestyle. Live a little like Slim Aarons and book your spot on Solaré this summer. Solaré will launch in late summer 2025 — we'll update you with more details when they're announced. For more information in the interim, head to the website. Images: Jason Loucas.
First, the bad news: as announced at the end of February by creator and showrunner Jesse Armstrong in an interview with The New Yorker, HBO's award-winning version of Family Feud — aka Succession — is coming to an end. Now, the good news: in the show's just-dropped full trailer for season four, the squabbles are as sharp as ever, the insults are flying thick and fast, and no one among the Roy family can trust each other. So, it's fiery business as usual for the series' farewell lap. Arriving on Monday, March 27 in Australia and New Zealand — airing week to week — Succession's fourth season will be its last, and will see business titan Logan Roy (Brian Cox, Remember Me) leave his children Shiv (Sarah Snook, Pieces of a Woman), Kendall (Jeremy Strong, Armageddon Time), Connor (Alan Ruck, The Dropout) and Roman (Kieran Culkin, No Sudden Move) with everything, nothing or something in-between. Getting to that conclusion is going to be one helluva ride, as every season of Succession always is. The latest sneak peek includes everything from double-crossing to angry confrontations, plus Shiv's husband Tom Wambsgans (Matthew Macfadyen, Operation Mincemeat) and Roy-family cousin Greg (Nicholas Braun, Zola) trying to stay relevant — and gossiping to each other, as they always do. It's Greg who utters the trailer's best line, in fact: "it's like if Santa Claus was a hitman," he says of Logan. The more things change for the Roys, the more that volatile underlying dynamic stays the same. No one is happy, the future of the company is in chaos and everyone wants the top job. In season four, that involves Logan's children teaming up with the family's foes, loyal in-house legal counsel Gerri (J Smith-Cameron, Fleishman Is in Trouble) threatening lawsuits, Logan starting rounds of chanting in the office and Roman getting in the face of Lukas Matsson, the tech visionary played by Alexander Skarsgård (The Northman) who Logan wants to sell Waystar Royco to. This is the fourth glimpse at what's in store in Succession season four, following on from an initial sneak peek in a broader HBO trailer in mid-October last year, another in late 2022 when the show's autumn return was confirmed, and one in January that locked in the exact March comeback date. If you need a refresher from season three, Shiv, Kendall, Roman and Connor have banded together to form a rebel alliance against Logan over his move to offload the company — and therefore the jobs, power, and cultural and political influence they always thought they'd inherit — to Lukas. It was back in 2021 when HBO announced that Succession would return for a fourth run, after its Emmy-winning third season proved that exceptional — and popular. Viewers are clearly in for more power struggles and more savaging of the one percent, aka more of what Succession has always done best. This time, however, it's the last go-around, so truly anything can happen. "We're pirates," shouts Logan in the new trailer, after all. Check out the full trailer for Succession season four below: Succession season four starts streaming from Monday, March 27 Down Under, including via Foxtel, Binge and Foxtel On Demand in Australia and Neon in New Zealand. Check out our review of season three. Images: Claudette Barius/Macall B Polay, HBO.
The Woolpack Hotel, founded way back in 1796, is a stalwart pub in the Parramatta area — though it's been given an impressive facelift. Its many spaces make it ideal for a wide range of tastes. The main bar offers lounges and ottomans alongside a detailed wine list and cocktail menu. If you're looking for a rowdy time instead, head over to the sports bar. It boasts both indoor and outdoor plasma TVs, pool tables and a courtyard to boot. And the venue isn't offering up your standard pub food either. Instead, expect Thai favourites from in-house restaurant M&J to grace your plate. Plus, the bar is open until 4am on Saturdays and is a close walk both from Bankwest Stadium and to the train station.
With a fresh (an exclusive) Hiroshi Sugimoto exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA), now is the perfect time to indulge in some Japanese culture right here in Sydney. MCA is known for its world-class art exhibitions and is a leading cultural destination for tourists and locals alike. The Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine exhibition is now at the MCA until October 27. This exclusive exhibition is the largest display of Sugimoto's work ever presented and his first in the southern hemisphere. Featuring nearly 100 of his most iconic and rarely-seen pieces, it showcases over 50 years of the artist's groundbreaking photography. Organised in collaboration with London's Hayward Gallery and supported by Destination NSW, Time Machine is set to be a highlight of the MCA's calendar. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply curious, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine is a must-see event on your Japanese-themed tour of the city. [caption id="attachment_952847" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kahii Kissaten Match, KWPhotography, Matthew Wong[/caption] Morning Start your day with a taste of Tokyo in Surry Hills. Wander over to Parami on Alberta Street, where breakfast comes in the form of onigiri, humble but oh-so-satisfying rice triangles. Whether you go for the wagyu, salted salmon, or a breakfast favourite like bacon and egg, you'll find yourself wondering why you ever settled for avo on toast. Pair that with a matcha latte, and you're set. For a sweeter start to your day, head to the cult-favourite Gram Cafe's CBD outpost and indulge in its famous soufflé pancakes. [caption id="attachment_972871" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hiroshi Sugimoto, installation view, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2024, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, © the artist, photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] Now that your belly is happy, it's time to feed your artistic soul. Make your way to the MCA for Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, an immersive exploration of Sugimoto's work. As one of the most renowned photographers of our time, Sugimoto has made an indelible mark on contemporary art. He captures ethereal and contemplative images that challenge the boundaries of time, history and reality. The MCA has curated a dynamic program of talks, workshops, family-friendly activities, and film screenings, all designed to further engage visitors with Sugimoto's unique vision. Mark your calendar for Friday, October 11, when the museum will host a special 'Up Late' event, celebrating Japanese culture through art, music, and performance, offering an unforgettable evening experience. [caption id="attachment_972870" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hiroshi Sugimoto, Opticks 195, 2018, installation view, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2024, chromogenic print, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, © the artist, photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] After soaking in Sugimoto's art, refuel at Kahii Kissatten in the CBD. A nod to Japan's traditional tea rooms, this spot is part of the buzzing YCK Laneways precinct but with a much more serene vibe. Here, you can savour a house-roasted small-batch coffee, sip on Uji-sourced matcha, or go all out with a black sesame cloud drink. Pair your bevvy with one of their Japanese-inspired pastries (we're talking banana tiramisu pastries and almond croissants), and you're all set. Afternoon With your caffeine cravings satisfied, it's time to channel your own inner artisan with some traditional Japanese art. Head to Kintsugi Australia, and try your hand at kintsugi, the Japanese practice of mending broken pottery with lacquer and gold. It's all about celebrating imperfections, a philosophy that'll have you looking at life's cracks and flaws in a whole new light. Kintsugi Australia offers a range of courses, whether you are looking for something modern, traditional, beginner or intensive. After flexing your creative skills, enjoy a satisfying sushi lunch at the sleek underground sushi restaurant Toko on George Street or head out to Ume Burger in Barangaroo or its outpost in Darling Harbour for delicious Japanese burgers, lotus chips and crisp Japanese lager. No day of Japanese culture would be complete without a little retail therapy. Head to Kinokuniya, Sydney's best Japanese bookstore, for everything from manga to art books. Then, swing by Muji and Uniqlo to pick up minimalist homewares and effortlessly stylish clothing that'll have you embracing the Japanese principle of 'less is more.' And, of course, make time for a quick stop at a Gacha Gacha machine — who doesn't love a capsule toy surprise? — there are numerous Gacha Gachas dotted throughout the CBD. [caption id="attachment_887361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bay Nine, Declan Blackall[/caption] Evening As the sun sets, treat yourself to a luxe Japanese dinner at Bay Nine Omakase in Circular Quay. Here, you'll be spoiled with a chef's selection of seasonal dishes crafted with the finest ingredients in the tradition of omakase dining. Prefer something more casual? Check out Nakano Darling for an izakaya feast. For dessert, head over to LeTAO for a luxurious slice of Japanese cheesecake. Still have some energy left? Slide into Rekodo, a vinyl bar at Barangaroo where tunes meet Japanese whisky — an ideal combo for a laidback evening. Or, if you're feeling more lively, pop into Bancho in Haymarket for a cocktail and a nightcap. Finally, no Japanese-inspired day would be complete without a karaoke session. Head to Goros in Surry Hills, where you can belt out your favourite anthems while sipping on sake in one of the private rooms, challenge your mates to arcade games or dance the night away at the popular Japanese dive bar spot. Whether you're diving into art, sipping on matcha, or singing your heart out, Sydney's got all the ingredients for a Japanese day out that's anything but ordinary — no passport required. Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine runs from August 2 until October 27, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from MCA's website. Tickets cost $28 for adults and $20 for concessions, excluding booking fee. Entry is free to MCA members, youth (13–17 year-olds) and children (12 year-olds and younger).
Stay tuned. More info on its way. Image: @wellingtonstprojects.
If you can hold on tight for one teeny, tiny minute longer, the long weekend will be with us. We know you have all sorts of awesomeness planned, so to get you in the mood (and help you through this final, painful hour or two), we'd like to treat to you a little visual relaxation. These gorgeous, dreamy cinemagraphs (the technical word for GIFs that are partly animated but don’t qualify as video) are the creation of a Strasbourg-based photographer by the name of Julien Douvier. He’s a 24-year-old freelancer who studied design and is now making inroads into the visual world via various creative projects. On his Tumblr, Douvier says, "As you can see, I attach a great importance to quality and details in my work. I will never release something I'm not satisfied of [sic.], even if I have to spend a lot of extra time on it. The meaning is very important too; I could create a lot of personal projects, but I don’t want them to be meaningless." Douvier isn't in too much danger of that with this collection. Every carefully composed image is just begging you to take a moment out of your day and pause to meditate. And that would be Friday. Just. About. Over. Via PetaPixel. Image credit: Cinemagraphs by Julien Douvier
Just like wine and cheese go together, there are so many bar snacks that are born to be paired with an expertly made cocktail. Sydney is home to a clutch of great cocktail bars where the food offering is on par with the drinks, so it's worth ordering a little bite to eat alongside your next tipple. With some help from American Express, we've curated this guide to drinks and small bites that you should check out. From stopping by a CBD bar after work for Sydney's best steak tartare to downing tacos at a beachside diner, these are the cocktail and snack combos you should make a beeline for.
Fear not, there is a cure for the Monday blues — a cure that's been tried and tested by sufferers since the dawn of the five-day week. It's simple, and only requires three things: cheese, wine and a cosy setting. An excellent place to find this special cure is at The Wine Library in Woollahra, one of our favourite wine bars in Sydney. It has an intimate interior and an exquisite selection of wines, in addition to incredible cheese and charcuterie options. Wash down some spicy salami and red peppers with a selection of five cheeses, and roll into Tuesday safely knowing that you made the most of your Monday.
The internet may have delivered on its promise of infinite information, available at any point in time. But there's no substitute for sinking into the couch with a good book. There's also nothing like discovering a new read at your local bookshop. So, we've tracked down some of the best Sydney bookshops to help you find your next great read. Despite ebooks, online book companies and Netflix, these independent Sydney booksellers are still winning bundles of readers' love with their quirky collections, smart recommendations and cosy nooks. And don't worry, a heap of them are set up to deliver your next great read direct to your door.
Following several years of successful activations as part of Vivid Sydney, Aria has announced it is opening its snack bar in a long-term capacity. The Aria Snack Bar found success as part of the beloved festival as a chance for diners to taste Matt Moran's renowned fine dining in a more casual and accessible format. It is not surprising that the snack menu features lush ingredients such as caviar, truffles and artisan cheeses. Start with Sydney rock oysters, truffle tarts with smoked cheddar, and tuna tartare with white soy. Savour a glass of Krug alongside a fried quail leg with kombu cream and caviar, and K'gari spanner crab with smoked roe, lemon cream and flat bread. Fill up on a wagyu smash burger with melting cheese and beer onions, and finish the night off with an ice cream sundae dripping with sherry caramel and pecans, all as you take in your spectacular surroundings. The snack bar allows visitors to experience Aria's elegance in a more casual way, perfect for a pre-theatre pop-in or a late-night rendezvous. Reservations are available from 8pm, with walk-ins welcome at any time. Images: Supplied. Aria Snack Bar is now open. Find out more about the menu and reserve your table now.
Classic flicks just keep making the leap to the stage, turning their big-screen tales into song-filled musical adaptations in the process. From 9 to 5 and Muriel's Wedding to Moulin Rouge! and Shrek, a hefty number of beloved movies have done just that — and now Adam Sandler's smash-hit film The Wedding Singer has joined them. The Wedding Singer: The Musical Comedy was originally due to hit Sydney in July last year but, as we all know, the pandemic got in the way. Now, it's bringing its tunes to town, playing the State Theatre from Wednesday, January 5–Sunday, January 23. If you've seen the movie, then you'll know what you're in for — with The Wedding Singer: The Musical Comedy delivering an all-singing, all-dancing stage show based on the hilarious 90s flick. And it's from the same crew that propelled it to sell-out success on Broadway and across the UK, including the writer of the original movie, Tim Herlihy. This one will yank you right into The Wedding Singer's 80s world of big hair and classic wedding bangers, thanks to a toe-tapping score that's sure to prompt a few hearty crowd singalongs. It retells the story of party-loving wedding singer and wannabe rock star Robbie Hart, who's left stranded at the altar at his own nuptials. Heartbroken, he sets out to destroy every other wedding he's a part of, until a chance encounter with a waitress: Drew Barrymore's character Julia. Now, he just has to win over the girl... and somehow put a stop to her own upcoming marriage along the way.
Founded by obstetrician and fertility specialist Toby Angstmann, Canberra's Underground Spirits was brought into this world with a "life's too short" mentality. Even when you're a well-regarded doctor, life is clearly too short not to pursue your dream of making spirits. Angstmann has transported some of his medical skills to his new business, too — which is where the brand's impurity-removing cryofiltration process was born. The result: smooth tipples that go down easily, as anyone who tries Underground Spirits' caramel vodka discovers. Of course, the very concept of caramel vodka was always going to tempt tastebuds. How could it not? Think warm, sweet, creamy and buttery, and the kind of spirit you'll want several sips of. Underground Spirits' distillery is located in Kambah, in the southern outskirts of Canberra, with products available online. As well as caramel vodka, it makes cold-brew coffee vodka, shiraz and pepperberry gin, a special-edition native gin in collaboration with the Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra, and standard vodka and gin.
Year after year, creatives, storytellers, thinkers, and inspirational figures from around the world descend upon Sydney for one very special event. The Sydney Writers' Festival, a short but very sweet celebration of the best and brightest minds and the words they've created. It's on its way back for 2026, and now we know exactly what we can expect from the five-day program of over 200 events and 250+ participating guests. This year's theme, Show Me the Truth, is a dive into truth and trust in written and spoken media amid overwhelming uncertainty. As Sydney Writers' Festival Artistic Director Ann Mossop explains, "Writers bring the truth to life in many different ways, whether it is in a novel that transports us to another time and place or in rigorous journalism that reflects the current moment." [caption id="attachment_1081033" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jacquie Manning[/caption] "We'll explore important questions about the future of democracy and the impact of AI on the arts and culture, but we'll also celebrate a major anniversary for one of Australia's favourite cookbooks and the joys of Dav Pilkey's Captain Underpants. The SWF program opens up a space for writers and readers to explore books, ideas and storytelling in all of their variety and richness," Mossop adds. Headlining this year's festival are a number of notable voices. International bestsellers like R.F. Kuang (Katabasis), Mick Herron (Slow Horses) and Patrick Radden Keefe (London Falling) will unpack their latest works, while global voices of change and truth like former NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales will examine their lives and legacies live on stage. [caption id="attachment_1081031" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jacquie Manning[/caption] Booker Prize-winning and shortlisted authors such as David Szalay (Flesh), Susan Choi (Flashlight), Yann Martel (Life of Pi), Roddy Doyle (The Women Behind the Door), Amitav Ghosh (The Nutmeg's Curse), Tayari Jones (Kin) and S.A. Cosby (King of Ashes) will all discuss the inspirations of and truths within their latest works. On the events front, the creator of an Australian classic, Dav Pilkey (Captain Underpants, Dog Man) will draw his characters live on stage in a live and antics-filled event. Journalists Lorena Allam, Avani Dias, Lyse Doucet, Anton Enus, Kate McClymont and Patrick Radden Keefe gather for The Story That Changed My Life to discuss the stories that changed their careers forever, while Brave Conversations: When Words Offend will unite journalists and storytellers for a panel on the role of disagreements in democracy. [caption id="attachment_1081034" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jacquie Manning[/caption] After Bondi will see four writers and host Michaela Kalowski reflect on grief, solidarity and resilience after the Bondi terrorist attack. Big Histories will bring together Amitav Ghosh, Luke Kemp and Clare Wright to re-examine the fundamental grand narratives of human history. Great Adaptations will offer an insight into how stories move from page to screen, and The Future of Truth will pair Barbara Demick, A.C. Grayling, Jimmy Wales and Toby Walsh in a discussion on how trust can be rebuilt in the age of misinformation, AI and information overload. The full program goes on and on, from returning favourite events like the SWF Great Debate and the opening gala to Australia-wide and international authors and celebrations of First Nations and queer voices in the writing world. You can visit the SWF website to browse every event and plan your perfect festival run, with over 55 free events making it as accessible as it is insightful. [caption id="attachment_1081032" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jacquie Manning[/caption] Sydney Writers' Festival will take place at venues across the city from Sunday, May 17–May 24, tickets go on sale at 10am on Saturday, March 14. For the full program or more information, visit the website. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Want to bunker down in Bunker Bay with easy access to the ocean, spa treatments, infinity pools – and, of course, nearby wine regions? The Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is ticking quite a lot of those boxes and others, as it serves as a mighty luxurious base for exploration of the Margaret River Wine Region. A bit of a drive from Perth, Bunker Bay is worth the petrol for the clear waters alone, and the rest of Margaret River's attributes additionally. From here, you can head out on a group tour of the region's more than 150 cellar doors — famous wineries in the area include Xanadu, Cape Mentelle, Voyager and Leeuwin Estate — or get your own car or bike and follow an itinerary of your invention. Several of the estates also boast restaurants, so you're guaranteed to be both well fed and watered. On the other side of Margaret River's rolling hills, you've got that inviting ocean and a brilliant coastal walking track that will take you past Cape Leeuwin and its Instagram-ready lighthouse. The Mediterranean climate means there's never a bad time to holiday here, but come between June and November if you've always wanted to try a spot of whale-watching. Humpback, southern right, minke and even blue whales have been known to migrate past this coastline each year. Back in the comfort of the Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, studio or bungalow-style villas house guests here, and all villas have lake or garden views and a boardwalk to the beach, so it's an easy stroll towards fulfilling your holiday hit-list. Vie Spa occupies the side of your vacation that is "lying down and utterly relaxing", with their beachfront location and couples suites a very valid option for honeymooners. Kinks in your back all worked out? You can head to the Bunker Bay Resort's restaurant – Other Side of the Moon is its name, and utilising fresh and sustainable local produce in share plates is its tasty game. Eat well but don't forget to explore the wines too – you're in the Margaret River region after all.
It came, it celebrated, and it filled Melbourne with art, music and performances. Across its official 12-day run from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 for 2025, RISING proved another hit. Not ready to say goodbye to the winter festival's huge lineup — which featured 100-plus events from 610 participating artists, including 16 brand-new commissions — just yet? Didn't make it down from interstate to the Victorian capital? A few of its highlights are sticking around, so you can still enjoy a RISING experience in the coming days, weeks and even months. Swingers — The Art of Mini Golf was the first event announced for RISING 2025 — and the art exhibition that's also a putt-putt course will be the last to finish, too. Until Sunday, August 31, it's welcoming in audiences at Flinders Street Station to get tap, tap, tapping around greens designed by female-identifying and gender-diverse artists. Kajillionaire filmmaker and All Fours writer Miranda July is behind one of the surreal and mindbending creations, riffing on her latest book's name with an 'all fores' setup. [caption id="attachment_994702" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eugene Hyland[/caption] Also helping to shape Swingers — The Art of Mini Golf: Soda Jerk switching from bringing TERROR NULLIUS and Hello Dankness to the big screen, plus Australian artists Kaylene Whiskey and Nabilah Nordin, Japan's Saeborg, the United Kingdom's Delaine Le Bas, Indonesia's Natasha Tontey, Atlanta rapper BKTHERULA and Hobart-based photographer Pat Brassington. If you haven't seen Hedwig and the Angry Inch before, this is your chance to redress that gap in your theatregoing, with this new Australian production of the rock musical starring Filipino Australian singer Seann Miley Moore. It's running at Athenaeum Theatre until Sunday, June 29. You've got even longer, until Saturday, July 12, to grab a seat at Fairfax Studio for The Wrong Gods — the new piece by S Shakthidharan, the playwright behind RISING 2024's Counting and Cracking. Embracing a playful stage musing on romantic woes with the appropriate soundtrack remains on the agenda at Heartbreak Hotel at Arts Centre Melbourne until Sunday, June 22, too, while Melbourne Theatre Company's Legends (of the Golden Arches) is at Southbank Theatre until Saturday, June 28. "We're thrilled and grateful that audiences have once again embraced RISING in 2025. It's a testament to Melbourne's appetite and reputation for culture that over 12 massive days and nights, people turned out in huge numbers making the city feel alive with creativity," said RISING co-Artistic Directors and co-CEOs Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek. "It's exciting to see that momentum continue, with several works extending beyond the festival dates by popular demand. There's still so much to discover, whether it's artfully absurd mini golf at Flinders Street Station, or powerful new theatre and performance across Melbourne." [caption id="attachment_1009673" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brett Boardman[/caption] RISING 2025 Extended Seasons Until Sunday, June 22 — Heartbreak Hotel at Arts Centre Melbourne Until Saturday, June 28 — Legends (of the Golden Arches), Southbank Theatre Until Sunday, June 29 — Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Athenaeum Theatre Until Saturday, July 12 — The Wrong Gods, Fairfax Studio Until Sunday, August 31 — Swingers — The Art of Mini Golf, Flinders Street Station [caption id="attachment_994694" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andi Crown Photography[/caption] RISING 2025 ran from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 across Melbourne, but several events and shows are still enjoying their seasons over the next days, weeks and months — head to the event's website for further information.
If your love language is a perfectly textured flat white, clear your calendar. The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) is back in 2026, and it's brewing up its biggest year yet. From Thursday, March 26, until Saturday, March 28, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will transform into a caffeinated haven. As the Asia Pacific's largest dedicated coffee event, MICE draws over 11,000 attendees from around the world, bringing together cafe owners, roasters, coffee innovators, and everyday caffeine devotees under one roof. This year, MILKLAB (AKA, the milk used by baristas) is a Platinum Sponsor. The brand is offering attendees a high-energy program that's packed with competitions, bean tastings, and daily DJ sets to keep you going. Here's what's happening at MICE this year. The Roaster Royale Finals Kicking off on Thursday, March 26 from 2–4pm, the MILKLAB Roaster Royale Finals will crown Australia's best blend, but with a twist. Aussie roasters have been tasked with developing the ultimate coffee blend using supplied green beans from InterAmerican Coffee, to pair with MILKLAB's Oat milk. The top contenders will go head-to-head at MICE, where a champion and runner-up will be announced. Attendees can also sample the top five blends and cast their vote for the MICE Favourite, giving coffee lovers a direct say in who takes home bragging rights and $1,000. National Barista Battle On Friday, March 27, from 2–4pm, the stakes rise with the MILKLAB National Barista Battle. Australia's best baristas will compete for the 2026 title in a high-stakes battle of the pour. Then on Saturday, March 28, from 2–4pm, the newly crowned national champion will return to the stage for the MILKLAB International Barista Battle, facing off against leading baristas from around the world. Attendees can expect high-pressure pours, technical precision, and some serious latte art theatre as global talent battles it out in front of a live MICE crowd. It's your chance to witness world-class coffee techniques up close and personal and take home a little art inspiration. Sensations Booth Beyond the competitions, the MILKLAB Sensations booth will be serving its signature drinks to attendees throughout the expo. Each year, MILKLAB curates a season-defining drop of drinks designed to satisfy your tastebuds (and Instagram story aesthetics). This year's range has been developed with specialty coffee roasters Golden Brown Coffee and includes a Glazed Doughnut Iced Latte and a Mango Matcha, among other delicious coffee creations. Swing by the booth at MICE to sample the signature drinks and see why MILKLAB has cemented its place as a premium favourite among baristas and specialty cafes nationwide. DJs to Keep the Energy High MICE may be an industry-focused event, but that doesn't mean it has to be boring. A live DJ will be spinning daily sets at the MILKLAB booth to soundtrack your coffee-sipping and barista-battles throughout the weekend. Across the wider expo floor, attendees can explore cutting-edge equipment, discover emerging coffee roasters, and gain insights from industry leaders who are shaping the future of specialty coffee in Australia and beyond. All in Australia's favourite coffee city, Melbourne. Whether you're in the trade or are just chasing your next favourite cup, MICE 2026 promises three days of competition, collaboration, and of course, seriously good coffee. Purchase your tickets to MICE now. Image credit: Supplied
If you had plans to see Childish Gambino in Australia and New Zealand in 2025, you were likely paying close attention when he announced in early October that he was cancelling the remainder of his North American tour, and also his UK and European dates. A trip Down Under was meant to follow, and wasn't scrapped at the time; however, it's officially no longer going ahead. There'll be no summertime magic after all, then, after the musician that you also know as Donald Glover first announced four Australian shows for 2025, then expanded his local dates before general ticket sales even started. For the rapper, hip hop talent and Mr & Mrs Smith actor, this was set to be his first trip to these shores since 2019. Dates at Auckland's Spark Arena in January, then at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena, Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena and RAC Arena in Perth are all now cancelled. When Gambino's shows elsewhere were scraped, he advised on social media that he'd been "to the hospital in Houston to make sure of an ailment that had become apparent" after a show in New Orleans. "After being assessed, it became clear I would not perform that night, and after more tests, I could not perform the rest of the US tour in the time asked. As of now I have surgery scheduled and need time out to heal," the statement continued. "My path to recovery is something I need to confront seriously. With that said, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the North American tour and the UK and European dates. Tickets will be refunded at point of purchase." [caption id="attachment_955315" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eli Watson via Flickr.[/caption] This situation might sound familiar. When Gambino last headed this way — complete with a headline spot at Splendour in the Grass — it was after initially announcing a 2018 Australian tour, then cancelling it due to an ongoing injury. Before that, he performed at Falls Festival in 2016. Gambino mightn't have been on Aussie stages for a spell — and still won't be anytime soon — but Glover had the final two seasons of Atlanta, both in 2022, reach screens since he was last Down Under. Voice work on Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, producing TV series Swarm, the aforementioned Mr & Mrs Smith: they've all joined his resume as well. He'll also be heard as Simba again in Mufasa: The Lion King, the prequel to 2019's photorealistic version of The Lion King, before 2024 is out. [caption id="attachment_955317" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Eli Watson via Flickr.[/caption] Childish Gambino 'The New World' Tour 2025 Australia and New Zealand Dates Tuesday, January 28 — Spark Arena, Auckland — CANCELLED Saturday, February 1 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane — CANCELLED Tuesday, February 4–Wednesday, February 5 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney — CANCELLED Friday, February 7–Saturday, February 8 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne — CANCELLED Tuesday, February 11 — RAC Arena, Perth — CANCELLED Childish Gambino is no longer touring Australia and New Zealand in January and February 2025. Head to the tour website for further details. Top image: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas via Flickr.
Bar Patron has undergone its fair share of evolution since launching in 2018. Originally opened by Neil Perry and the Rockpool Dining Group, the Mexican-inspired restaurant sat dormant for three years during COVID times before it was revamped under hospitality group Pacific Concepts, now rebranded as Hunter St. Hospitality (The Collective, El Camino Cantina, 24 York). Yet the world's only Patrón-dedicated tequila bar has decided to embrace its name, shifting away from its Mexican dining focus to become a fully-fledged tequila bar. From its airy home in Circular Quay, guests can now expect cocktails to be front and centre, while a tightened food menu complements, not overshadows, what's shaken and stirred behind the bar. The drinks list goes far beyond the basics. Led by Bar Manager Andori Sanchez (El Primo Sanchez) and Hunter St. Hospitality Beverage Director Ali Toghani, a thoughtfully assembled selection of seven signature cocktails draws from varied regions of Mexico, with each designed to showcase a specific area's standout produce and character. For instance, the El Mariachi draws inspiration from Jalisco — the birthplace of tequila — offering a zesty, tropical blend of Patrón Reposado, hibiscus, Campari, blood orange liqueur and mango. Oaxaca, the heartland of mezcal, sets the tone for La Llorona, featuring a smoky, spicy base balanced against pineapple sweetness — another regional staple. There's also El Cielo De Mayo, where the light agave flavours of Patrón El Cielo mix with fresh lime, pomegranate grenadine and apple juice to reflect Puebla's fertile farmland and citrus trees. While the new direction for Bar Patrón has reduced the focus on food, don't assume what remains lacks the same punch that came before. Overseen by Hunter St. Hospitality Culinary Director Santiago Aristizabal, each dish showcases regional Mexican touches and premium Australian produce, ensuring lunch or dinner remains a delight. Order a round of tacos to start, choosing from options like wagyu cheek, grilled prawn and pork barbacoa. Snacks like salty chicharrones and tuna tostada also won't go amiss. For something larger, favourites like Glacier 51 toothfish with adobo, and braised short rib birria are still on the menu. With long lunch specials and happy hours offered throughout the week, swing through Bar Patrón for a cocktail, a casual bite and front-row Sydney Harbour seats. Bar Patrón is open from Tuesday–Thursday from 12–10pm, Friday–Saturday from 12–11pm, and Sunday–Monday from 12–9pm at 2 Phillip Street, Sydney. Head to the website for more information. Images: Steven Woodburn.
It's this midway point of the year when many of us have travel on our minds. Whether the Euro summer Instagram dumps have you thinking about your next jaunt to the Northern hemisphere, or you want to escape the long winter for a warm Asian escape, a lot of us are plotting our next adventure. If it's been a while since you planned an international trip, here are some handy tips to keep in mind and help you travel smarter, not harder. Book Smart When deciding on a holiday destination, it's easy to get excited and book the first flight the airline presents to you. Take your time, do some research and look at off-peak tickets to save some money. These include flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you can, avoid flights that take off just after work and during holiday periods. Pack a 24-Hour Emergency Kit In Your Carry On Stuff happens. Flights get delayed, and luggage can be lost. While not ideal, having a backup outfit, toiletries, and any medication in your carry-on bag can help to ease your mind. Travelling can be unpredictable, but by preparing a little more, the big annoyances can become small details that you'll forget by the time your lost luggage arrives safely on your hotel doorstep. Get Your Money In Order Your holiday savings account looks nice and healthy, and your bag is packed, but how will you spend money when you get to your destination? Using the wrong card could result in some hefty international exchange fees. No one needs to pay $4 to get their own money out of an ATM in Italy. HSBC's Everyday Global Account is an everyday bank account with useful benefits for your international travels. Think instant (and seamless) fee-free* currency exchange 24/7, competitive exchange rates, and $0 HSBC ATM fees worldwide**. The HSBC Everyday Global Account also allows you to spend in multiple currencies from the one account. Organising your money before you're swept up in holiday adventures means you could save some serious cash in the long run. Plus, you can keep using your HSBC Everyday Global Account when you land back on home soil, too. With HSBC's Everyday Extras, enjoy up to $600 cashback*** a year on eligible tap and pay purchases under $100 domestically, making it the ideal everyday account for the world. Layovers As Mini Holidays As Australians, we're used to long haul flights. This doesn't mean we can't make the most of the time, though. Rather than rushing across continents as quickly as possible, consider an extra night in your layover destination. It's the perfect way to feel more rested pre-holiday and reset for reality on the way back. Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong are all popular layover destinations from Australia and have a wealth of culture and food to get you into the holiday zone. Make The Most of The Airport Lounge A part of getting older is learning that sometimes it's worth it to spend a little bit extra when traveling in exchange for comfort and cleanliness. If you're not going to leave the airport on your long haul layover, at least consider a pass to a lounge. Here, you can shower, eat some food (local cuisine is encouraged), and charge up your devices before landing at your destination. Utilising airport lounges can mean the difference between arriving at your first stop feeling excited and ready to explore, versus needing a day in your hotel to recover from the flight. Utilise Google Maps Is there anything worse than heading out to explore a new city's cuisine and finding yourself eating at a fast food joint? In the months and weeks leading up to your holiday, spend some time researching places you'd like to check out and save them on your Google Maps. This way, when you're wandering around, the sun is setting and hunger is rearing its head, you'll have a laundry list of local spots ready to go rather than wasting a meal on food you could get back home. Don't worry, you don't have to tick them off like a to-do list (that's part of the fun of exploring), but having them saved as a backup means that you're never left wandering around aimlessly. Don't Forget The Fine Print Travel is always a thrill, but you can give yourself some peace of mind by ensuring the admin has been triple-checked before your bag is packed. Is your passport six months within date? Do you have travel insurance? Have you read its fine print? Do you know how you'll be spending money once you're overseas? Checking this admin off before you head to the airport means peace of mind and travelling smarter, not harder. Give Yourself a Day to Reset Where once you might've driven from the airport to the office on a Monday morning, giving yourself at least one day at home before getting back into your day-to-day life can help to ease you out of holiday mode. From jet lag to a lack of clean clothes, you won't regret taking the time to reset post-travel. Yes, you might need to spend an extra day of annual leave, but reminiscing on your trip and getting a good night's sleep will help to ease the travel blues and get you gearing up for your next trip, wherever that may take you. Learn more about HSBC's Everyday Global Account here. *T&Cs apply. Other banking services fees and charges may apply, including corresponding bank fees for international transfers. Issued by HSBC Bank Australia Limited ABN 48 006 434 162 AFSL 232595. **Non-HSBC branded ATMs and some HSBC Group ATMs may charge an ATM operator fee for withdrawals or balance enquiries at their ATMs. ***HSBC Everyday Extras is a feature of the HSBC Everyday Global Account. You will be eligible for Everyday Extras if you deposit at least AUD2,000 into your HSBC Everyday Global Account before the last working business day of each calendar month. For more information, refer to the Transaction and Savings Accounts Terms (PDF).
Sydney's CBD has landed a major dose of the Tokyo-esque practical and compact, with the former Bar Century space reopening in May as The Capsule Hotel, a three-storey, luxury boutique stay. The George Street cheap drinks den, which closed in 2016, was taken over by developer Walter Guo, who invested a massive $5 million on a full interior refurb, carried out by interior design consultants Giant Design. The heritage building has somewhat retained its vintage fit-out but with more of a nod to the futuristic space-like capsules of The Fifth Element. The bar and hotel are running as separate entities, with the first two levels acting as The Century Bar, while the top three floors of the building are dedicated to the capsules. Each of the 70 capsules contains a large flatscreen TV and entertainment system, Wi-Fi, and a climate control panel. Guests can choose from single or deluxe beds with entry from either the side or the end of the capsule. The communal facilities include a kitchen space, breakfast bar, lounge area, rooftop terrace and individual bathrooms. If you're worried about security, don't be — each capsule is fitted with a secure lock and the security desk runs 24-hours. But let's set the record straight — The Century is not a hostel, and it's not aimed at overindulgent locals that can't seem to make it back home. "The accommodation, which is not quite hotel nor hostel, is aimed at solo travellers looking for something more private than a typical backpackers and those who want the designer hotel experience on a budget," says Christopher Wilks, an associate at Giant Design. It's set to sit well within your budget, with prices ranging from $50-90 a night. Which, depending on how far from the CBD you live, could be a lot cheaper than a cab home at 1am. Find The Capsule Hotel at Level 3, 640 George Street, Sydney. For bookings, head to the website or call (02) 8957 7763.
If anyone has the know-how to transform a weary suburban pub into a go-to dining destination, it's Leigh McDivett and Clayton Ries. Not only did the pair have a huge hand in the Banksia Hotel's recent bistro revamp alongside celeb chef co-owner Colin Fassnidge, they're also western Sydney locals, having spent their childhoods kicking around in Northmead and Camden, respectively. Moving on from Banksia Bistro, the pair has moved further west to helm the Monarch Group's latest project, the Macquarie Hotel. The Liverpool pub has received an aesthetic spruce and a new produce-driven food offering. Headed up by McDivett, the kitchen's taking contemporary bistro dining up a few notches, across a menu of rejuvenated pub classics, crafty seasonal specials and desserts to drool over. Get excited for the likes of watermelon, chorizo, and Sriracha mayo salad, grilled whole leatherjacket with chard and pickled radicchio, and dreamy bacon ice cream pops. In keeping with the menu's new-school vibe, the pub itself has all the makings of a modern-day local with sports on the big screens, a cheery assortment of happy hour specials, and a leafy, timber-decked al fresco space to rival any inner-city beer garden. The Macquarie Hotel is now open at 269 Macquarie Street, Liverpool. For more info, visit macquarie-hotel.com.au.
Rise and shine, your next adventure is Montague Island, a magnificent nature reserve nine kilometres off shore. It hosts the biggest fur seal colony in New South Wales, which attracts as many as 2500 seasonal residents, as well as over 90 bird species and a 12,000-strong little penguin colony. The best time to visit if you want a good chance of seeing these animals is during spring, but from late winter the seal colony on the island starts to grow and you're likely to spot penguins on an evening walk around the island. For a more organised tour, Lighthouse Charters offers a variety of options, including day trips with whale watching, snorkelling with fur seals and little penguin watching. To make the most of your trip, book an overnight stay. Montague Island's Assistant Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage sleeps seven people across three bedrooms, and you'll more or less have the island to yourself. Before leaving Narooma, grab an antipasto grazing box from Mr Bold Catering Co, which comes packed with local cheeses, chutneys, cured meats and fruit. Images: Destination NSW
Butter — Sydney's palace of fried chicken, sneakers, champagne and ramen — is adding yet another layer to its already over-the-top offering. It's bringing back its bottomless brunch at both its Surry Hills and Parramatta stores for summer, relaunching on Saturday, December 7 and running every Saturday and Sunday thereafter. On offer are venue's beloved fried chicken, sides and doughnuts, along with an optional 90 minutes of bottomless booze. As is, the brunch banquet ($38 a person) comes with fried chicken wings or mushrooms, fried haloumi and a heap of sides and sauces (including fries, corn, pickles and that gravy). Oh, and you'll get dessert, too — a hot cinnamon doughnut. Known to go all out, the restaurant is also offering three different bottomless booze options. Choose from Chandon blanc de blanc ($39), Hennessy lemon iced tea punch ($50) and Veuve Clicquot ($80). What ever you choose, you'll get endless pours of it for 90 minutes. And, in true Butter style, a limited-edition Butter X Hennessy basketball is also up for grabs — to win it, you'll need to Instagram your brunch and tag @butter. As always, the brunches are sure to get busy, so reserve your spot over here. Butter's bottomless brunch is happening every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am–3pm at Butter in Surry Hills and Parramatta.
When a filmmaker keeps chiselling away at the same niche, they're called repetitive. When they swap what they know for something new, they're accused of straying past their limits. The supposed ideal seems to sit somewhere in the middle, with directors expected to remain unwaveringly reliable while also serving up constant surprises — even if that very concept defies basic human nature. So what's an acclaimed auteur to do when he appears to be settling into a well-worn groove, as his underwhelming last picture made plain? In Asghar Farhadi's case, he explores the contradiction of trying to be the same yet different, baking the notion into his latest release. With the Spanish-language Everybody Knows, one truth is immediately evident: you can take the Oscar-winner out of his native Iran, but you can't take the familiarity out of his work. The man behind About Elly, A Separation, The Past and The Salesman delights in delving into disharmony in close quarters — into relationships, friendships and family situations where what's left unspoken is as important as what's said, and where complication reigns supreme. The scenarios, characters and narratives vary, and occasionally the countries that his films are set in do as well, however the writer-director's deep dive into complex interactions continues. All of the above proves accurate in this recognisable domestic drama, which is dressed up as a kidnap thriller while shot in sunny hues and scenic locales. If that last sentence seems like a clash of contrasts, that's partly the point, with Everybody Knows examining the foolishness of simultaneously wanting things to change and hoping they remain exactly as they always were. Returning to her Spanish village after establishing a life in Argentina, Laura's (Penélope Cruz) homecoming should be a happy one. She's back for her younger sister Ana's (Inma Cuesta) nuptials, she has her teenage daughter Irene (Carla Campra) and adolescent son Diego (Ivan Chavero) in tow, and everyone from her elderly father Antonio (Ramon Barea) to her ex-lover Paco (Javier Bardem) is delighted by her presence. Of course, no one could've anticipated that Irene would disappear during the lively wedding reception, or that a significant ransom demand would set everyone on edge. When Laura's husband Alejandro (Ricardo Darin) belatedly arrives, he steps into a tempest of flaring tempers and fraying emotions as the close-knit group endeavours to work through their darkest hour. With a name like Everybody Knows, Farhadi's eighth film was always going to hinge upon twists and secrets — of the type that, as the title makes plain, aren't all that twisty and secret at all. For viewers of the director's past work, the minutiae borders on routine, as characters argue about past dalliances, long-held grievances, whispered rumours and deep-seated jealousies, plus a contentious land deal that helped Paco become a successful winemaker. But with Laura's desperation growing, Paco committing to assist however he can, and Alejandro becoming quietly envious of their previous relationship, something else fascinates. In thoughtful and insightful fashion, the movie's main players are all caught between a past they've painted in rosy colours, a present that's fraught with pain, and an idealised future that may never eventuate. Pondering the ripples caused by previous deeds has become a Farhadi trademark, as has upsetting a comfortable vision of life with a challenging alternative, yet the turmoil is both smartly and aptly handled in Everybody Knows. Still, while there's substance behind Farhadi's story and themes, not to mention purpose behind his usual flourishes, Everybody Knows is rarely more than a striving but standard entry on his resume. What helps lift the movie considerably is another of the filmmaker's regular touches, with Farhadi particularly accomplished at wringing excellent performances out of his actors. In roles written specifically for them, Cruz and Bardem show why they've become the English-language film world's go-to Spanish stars, throwing up surprises in their multi-faceted portrayals long after the narrative has stopped doing so. Elsewhere, the soulful Darin demonstrates why he belongs in their company, and there's no false moves among the rest of the cast either. Alas, even with such stellar assistance and intentions, Farhadi often feels as if he's caught between two impulses — between simply doing what he's always done, and giving his fondness for familiarity extra weight and meaning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYMBGiWXoUc
If you're reading this article, you almost certainly know about food and craft beer matching and you may know about locations and craft beer matching, but have you heard of (or tried) books and craft beer matching? There are a number of elements to this growing trend. In the US, for example, book bars are becoming part of the urban landscape. Operating on the same principle as book cafes, only with craft beer instead of coffee, these establishments have a strong craft element. The books stocked are often non-mainstream, much like the beers served to accompany them. Elsewhere in North America — Canada, to be precise — beer and book clubs are being formed "for those who like to read a good book, drink a good beer, and maybe combine the two once in a while". Meeting at various pubs within a certain area, these gatherings bring a craft beer twist to the traditional book club. And then, of course, there’s the internet — where all manner of unlikely combinations get together. You'll find blogs about the right beer to drink while following the adventures of your favourite comic book hero, or about craft beers to match to certain authors. But in sites like Book and Beer, you'll also find recommendations for a particular beer to enjoy with a particular book. (For the record, the author — Jason Hensel, a writer, musician and comedian living in Dallas — reckons American Gods by Neil Gaiman is best enjoyed with a glass of James Squire Jack of Spades Porter.) So which book (or series of books) is best suited to the various beers in the James Squire craft beer range? Get reading and sipping this summer, there's Kerouac-paired beers afoot. F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Great Gatsby "It’s a great advantage not to drink among hard drinking people." Pair with James Squire The Chancer Golden Ale. Joseph Heller: Catch-22 "He knew everything there was to know about literature, except how to enjoy it." Pair with James Squire Jack of Spades Porter. Ian Fleming: The James Bond series "You only live twice: Once when you're born. And once when you look death in the face." Pair with James Squire Four 'Wives' Pilsener. J.R.R. Tolkien: The Lord of the Rings "Ho! Ho! Ho! to the bottle I go, to heal my heart and drown my woe." Pair with James Squire Nine Tales Amber Ale. Fyodor Dostoyevsky: Crime and Punishment "The darker the night, the brighter the stars." Pair with James Squire One Fifty Lashes Pale Ale. Alexandre Dumas: The Count of Monte Cristo "All human wisdom is contained in these two words: wait and hope." Pair with James Squire Stowaway IPA. Jack Kerouac: On the Road "The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars." Pair with James Squire Orchard Crush Cider. Ian Rankin: The Inspector Rebus series "Rebus drank his coffee and felt his head spin. He was feeling like the detective in a cheap thriller, and wished that he could turn to the last page and stop all his confusion, all the death and the madness and the spinning in his ears." Pair with James Squire The Constable Copper Ale. Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves "Open Sesame!" Pair with James Squire Hop Thief American-style Pale Ale. Jon Cleary: The Sundowners "Do me a favour, will you? If you're gonna be a drover, look like a drover. Get rid of that silly flaming hat." Pair with James Squire Sundown Australian Lager (what else?).
Canberra's legendary music, art and food festival Spilt Milk is set to return for its fourth edition this summer, though this year, the ACT's not the only place that'll be getting a taste of the action. Regional Victoria is also coming to the party, as the festival expands and adds a second Ballarat outing to its bill. Yep, the one-dayer is doubling in size, hitting Canberra's Commonwealth Park on Saturday, November 23, before making its southern debut at Ballarat's Victoria Park on November 30. That should mean twice as many festivalgoers get to join in the fun, which is a win given Spilt Milk tickets have sold out in under 30 minutes every year. If you're interstate and have missed out previously, this could be your chance to score a look-in. And, in even more exciting news, the festival's jam-packed lineup has just dropped. Heading the bill is American R&B star Khalid, who'll be heading Down Under fresh off the back of releasing his chart-topping debut album, Free Spirit. Khalid has also previously collaborated with the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish — and he's only 21. He'll be joined by fellow international artists, Scottish synth-pop trio Chvrches and Chicago rapper Juice Wrld. There's also plenty of homegrown goodness on the menu, with the likes of indie rock band Middle Kids, Triple J Hottest 100 winners Ocean Alley, electro trio Mansionair and Adelaide rapper Allday all set to take the Spilt Milk stage. But the musical lineup's not to be outdone by the rest of the program, with a ripper serve of visual art, tasty eats and pop-up bars on the cards. As well as mojitos on tap, there'll be eats from the likes of Belle's Hot Chicken, Bluebonnet BBQ, Mr Burger and Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteak. [caption id="attachment_724817" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Khalid[/caption] In the meantime, here's what you came for — the full lineup for Spilt Milk 2019. SPILT MILK 2019 LINEUP Allday Arno Faraji Bene Choomba Chvrches Confidence Man Dom Dolla Dune Rats G Flip Godlands Golden Features Groove City Illy Juice Wrld Khalid Kota Banks Lastlings Lime Cordiale Mansionair Middle Kids Ocean Alley Psychedelic Porn Crumpets Rat!Hammock (Ballarat only) Running Touch Sippy Teen Jesus & the Jean Teasers (Canberra only) Tones and I Winston Surfshirt SPILT MILK 2019 DATES Canberra — Commonwealth Park, Saturday, November 23 Ballarat — Victoria Park, Saturday, November 30 Spilt Milk 2019 pre-sale tickets are released at 8am on Wednesday, June 12 (you can sign-up for those on the website) with general tickets going on sale at 8am on Thursday, June 13. Top images: Jordan Munns and Billy Zammit.
When temperatures soar, sometimes heading to your nearest beach is the only way to get relief. But when seemingly everyone else in Sydney has the same idea, the thought of battling the crowds for a tiny patch of sand suddenly doesn't sound so appealing. According to new research from Country Road, more than 10 percent of Aussies say a blocked beach view is their biggest pet peeve at the beach. Fortunately, the lifestyle brand is here to help, hosting a free one-day towel takeover on the notoriously bustling Balmoral Beach. Happening from 9am–1pm on Saturday, November 15, beachgoers will discover 100 Country Road towels laid out on the sand featuring uninterrupted views. This way, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, no cabana required, while scoring a free towel to take with them on every beachfront adventure this summer and beyond. Conceived as a tongue-in-cheek response to frowned-upon beach habits — think overly loud music, shaking out sandy towels and crowding the view when no one's around — this is your chance to relish one of Sydney's top shorelines without any annoying distractions ruining the serenity. [caption id="attachment_838835" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Gregory, Destination NSW[/caption]
Krinklewood Estate, the Hunter Valley's idyllic, French-inspired biodynamic winery and cellar door, has unveiled the first stage of its transformation into a design-led eco-retreat. Cézan — the breezy new Mediterranean eatery and bar nestled among the estate's vineyards and olive trees — is now open for relaxed daytime dining in a stunning cellar door setting, with a seasonal, produce-led menu designed to pair with Krinklewood's acclaimed organic and biodynamic wines. "Cézan really came from a simple need — where could I find a great, casual lunch in Broke?" says Oscar Martin, owner of Krinklewood Estate. "We imagined a cellar door you'd want to visit a few times a week for incredible food and wine, surrounded by nature, without any of the fuss." That fuss-free menu — curated by Hunter Valley hospo company Fennel & Co. and French chef Marine Faverais (ex-Tetsuya's, Sketch London) — leans into rustic, share-plate dining. Designed for relaxed grazing, the produce-forward menu will change with the seasons, and feature the likes of kingfish crudo, creamy hummus, stracciatella with roasted tomatoes, white anchovies dressed with olive oil and lemon, and flatbreads warm from the oven. Dishes are elevated with produce grown on the estate — plus, you can pair your selection with wines poured in four sizes, from a tasting pour to a full bottle. Cézan is the result of a long-time friendship between Krinklewood owner Oscar Martin and the team behind Fennel & Co., whose thoughtful approach to catering made them a favourite for weddings on the estate (and, from 2026, the ties will deepen further still with Cézan appointed as the exclusive catering partner for all weddings and private events on the estate). It's all part of a broader transformation of Krinklewood under Martin's vision, anchored by a Peter Stutchbury-designed masterplan that includes a 22-room boutique motel, event centre, mineral bathhouse and performance stage, which will sit alongside Cézan and the estate's cellar door. [caption id="attachment_1006274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Griffen Photography[/caption] Cézan also offers in-room dining for the expanding accommodation, which will include a series of eco-cabins by Dimensions X, a housing start-up co-founded by Martin and Stutchbury. The in-room dining experience will see seasonal menus delivered straight to your door, as well as curated mini bar selections in each room and the opportunity to partake in exclusive chef and sommelier experiences. With its blend of wine, food, design and sustainability, Krinklewood is aiming to be much more than another stop on a weekend winery tour, with plans underway for a broader cultural program encompassing artist residencies, exhibitions and performances. [caption id="attachment_1006276" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Griffen Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006277" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Griffen Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006278" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Griffen Photography[/caption] Cézan is now open for brunch through to late lunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It's located at Krinklewood Estate, 712 Wollombi Road, Broke. For more information, head to the restaurant's website. Top image: David Griffen Photography.
Melbourne-born artist Buff Diss has been filling the streets with his geometric artworks for the past 14 years. Eschewing paint, he works primarily through the medium of tape to create dextrous designs that are not only striking in and of themselves but also create a "relationship" with the spaces on which they're displayed and present a "conversation with the architecture". Using a street art-like style, Buff Diss occupies a unique space in the art world, swapping the permanence and illegality of spray paint for a more novel approach. And it's with this style that he'll take over the Miller Design Lab — an innovative event series we're hosting with Miller Genuine Draft at Melbourne's SoHigh Gallery, featuring some of the most exciting contemporary artists and musicians Australia has to offer. Here, we talk creative inspirations and aspirations with the artist and about his latest taped-up work to be revealed at the Miller Design Lab on Friday, March 22. A typical work day for Diss starts to the waking call of his infant son. And then it's on to an early surf or skate, coffee, emails, sketching and brainstorming for new projects. "I try to spend as much time with my son as I can, sharing the workload with my wife by balancing projects — [it's] easier said than done," says Diss. "Then [it's a] nice dinner with a good strong red, [and I] put the little fella to bed then catch up on my Feedly." A former computer science student, Buff Diss has turned back to his roots. He's found an interest in the possibilities allowed by augmented reality for two-dimensional artforms and how he can work these into his art. "I'm keen as to set up a Donkey Kong emulation on a mural, where different sections of the painted mural transform to platforms and are populated with playable sprites," muses Diss. "I'm really keen to get back into coding so I can add AR functionality to my future work." But at present, the artist will keep things analog as he takes over every tapeable surface of the Miller Design Lab space on Friday, March 22. Buff Diss' large-scale, bespoke piece will take shape in realtime, as he works and contours tape and linear mesh into bold, graphic murals that represent a map of Milwaukee and the Milwaukee River — the home of Miller Genuine Draft. "I'm mapping out historical aspects of Miller Beer in modern medium," says Diss, distilling his mammoth project into a single line. Each geometric shaping will appear four times alluding to the "four times cold filtered" brewing process of the beer. And at the event, you can watch as he works in response to music and builds to a 'big reveal' moment. With such an interest in architectural terrain, it comes as no surprise that Diss's favourite country is Taiwan, where he completed a project in New Taipei City back in 2015. "It's such a special place, [with] incredibly varied landscapes from mountains, forests and islands," says Diss. "But [it's] the people and the free approach to art there [that's] addictive." Along with his admiration for Taiwan, as well as New York-based streetwear designer Jeff Staples (the global curator of the Miller Design Lab), Diss notes that there's a lot of inspiring stuff coming out of Australia's contemporary and street art scene. He particularly follows the likes of Adelaide street artist Order (aka Seb Humphreys), installation artist Georgia Hill and painters Matthew Fortrose and Laith McGregor. Whenever interstate, Diss makes sure he hits his favourite spots, including Sydney's China Heights Gallery and dining institution Tetsuya's; Hobart's MONA "for the wine" and The Source "for the art"; and Adelaide's Apothecary 1878. At home in Melbourne, it's gnocchi at Lover and ever-changing art at Collingwood's Blackwoods Gallery. Currently reading Musashu by Japanese writer Eiji Yoshikawa, watching Tawainese film The Assassin and listening to British punk-rock band Idles, Diss's interests are seemingly far-spread, both geographically and topically. But a good red wine, he insists, is a constant in his ever-expanding curiosities. As for his future plans? Buff Diss is going more traditional. "Having worked outdoors for so long I'm going to start painting canvas this year. Wish me luck." Images: Kate Shanasy.
Bendigo? More like why haven't you Bendigone yet? We're sorry for the bad joke, but not sorry to point you in the direction of this not-so-little gem. Located 150 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, Bendigo has long been a destination for art, fashion and design (the huge Bendigo Art Gallery), pottery (the town is famous for its ceramics) and fine dining (including one with a chef hat). But even if you don't like to see art, potter or eat (who are you kidding with that last one?), there is more to see than just all that. Bendigo is also ready to roll this autumn with a lineup of events that'll have you begging your friends to make the two-hour drive with you. We've partnered with Bendigo Tourism to bring you the best of 'em — get your calendar open in another tab and start planning.
Brisbane's hyped-up and Island-signed foursome The Cairos are about to embark on a national tour that you cannot afford to miss but certainly can afford to attend. Immediately following a national support slot for Sydney big timers The Holidays, the triple j Unearthed-winning newbies to Island Records are taking their celebrated sound across the country with their own headliner tour. The Brissy lads are keeping the motor running off the back of releasing their brand new debut album Dream of Reason. Tracks 'Desire' and 'We All Buy Stars' just scream "hear me live" and if the feedback coming out of their recent Asia tour is anything to go by, this is going to be one of the most justified sub $30 spends this year (now you can't even use budget-related gripes as an excuse to not go). Plus they just got a new keyboard. Now you're really obliged to head along. Make sure to get there early as Chinese psych band Nova Heart kicks things off. Seems Beijing psychedelia proves a perfect support pairing ahead of the Brisbane up-and-comers, so pop in early for a crispy Good God cocktail and a fully-fledged bliss out. https://youtube.com/watch?v=LAsjO3UIUsY
Since 2005, Jodie Van Der Velden and her team at Josophan's Fine Chocolates have been perfecting and expanding their craft as talented chocolatiers in the little town of Leura in the Blue Mountains. It was only a matter of time before visiting Sydney-siders begged the team to move closer to home. It's easy to rush past this little store hidden on the corners of King and York Street. Just like its signature ganache-filled gourmet chocolates, the tiny store is deceptively discreet but full of delicious surprises inside. Josophan's fine chocolates are made on base in Leura with sustainable fair trade certified Callebaut Belgian couverture chocolate, along with French boutique manufacturer Michel Cluizel's single plantation chocolate. They have made a name for themselves as a pioneer in matching usual fresh ingredients with scrumptious results. Forget plain white, milk and dark chocolates. Customers can choose from a range of combinations such as strawberry and balsamic, honey and saffron, mango and chilli or caramel, pineapple and coconut ($1.90 each). They even have a dairy and gluten free chocolate on offer; a hazelnut praline with caramelised crunchy cacao nibs, dipped in dark chocolate. If you must choose only one handcrafted chocolate, make it the award-winning basil and lime encased in rich dark chocolate. There is a wide range of chocolate goodies on offer to take home also. The staff always have a sample of one of their chocolate blocks or slabs on offer and don't even mind if you go in for seconds. Bags of chocolate covered homemade honeycomb (45g $4.75, 95g $7.95), almond and orange crunch (80g $7.95) as well as a range of drinking chocolates (250g $16.95) are displayed on silver cake stands or French cabinets under a glistening chandelier. The self-proclaimed best ice cream topping in the world, a chocolatery, crunchy mix of deliciousness to sprinkle over ice cream, in original, caramel, orange and strawberry flavours might just live up to its name (250g $19.95, 125g $9.95). At the very least, it will make the ideal dinner guest gift. On Friday September 28 the Australia Pastry Team, fresh off a win at the Asian Pastry Cup competition in Singapore, will be remastering their winning chocolate showpiece live in store. If you've ever wondered how a section of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House sails with the obligatory fireworks can be made from chocolate, there's no better time to wander by and marvel at the chocolate on hand.
The trend may be for live venues to open casual eateries, but if there was one place we thought would stay posh to the last, it was the Sydney Opera House. Yet now its tenant of 12 years, the illustrious Guillaume Brahimi, has announced he will not be submitting a tender for the site this year, leaving its million-dollar views open to those with a ten-buck ambition. "Our goal was always to run one of the best restaurants in the country, befitting such an iconic venue," said Brahimi in a press release. "The Opera House Trust is now seeking a bistro-style restaurant, cafe and bar. This clearly involves a very different vision." He said it had been their privilege to serve over half a million guests since Guillaume at Bennelong opened in 2001. The restaurant is a Sydney icon and has won 25 hats from the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide over the years, currently holding two. However, Brahimi's formal establishment is also a 'special occasion' restaurant for most, so it's understandable the Opera House Trust might seek something more capable of catering to the diverse audiences who visit for opera, theatre, concerts, festivals and talks. The Sydney Theatre Company now has its all-accommodating Bar at the End of the Wharf and Carriageworks has the cool Cornerstone (both operated by Fresh Catering) — will the Opera House swing the same way? Meanwhile, Brahimi isn't disappearing; he and his team are making busy plans that will be announced in the coming months, so we hope to see them emerge in a new incarnation in Sydney soon. Until then, you have six months to enjoy Guillaume at Bennelong before they shut up shop at the end of 2013.
However you identify, we hope your feed is filled with rainbows and eco glitter this week as we gear up to celebrate Mardi Gras on Saturday, March 6. Whether you're going to events in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane — or staying home to watch the parade on SBS — you can share the love and pride with the LGBTQIA+ community on TikTok. We've teamed up with the social media platform to bring you these six pride-filled videos to help get you pumped for the parade. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@itsbybrandon/video/6921305046323842306[/embed] Epic transformations are par for the course on TikTok, so how do you stand out from the crowd? @itsbybrandon does it time and time again with their colourful, creative and often unexpected makeup transitions. And, they lip sync like a pro. Take inspiration from this rainbow effect eyeshadow for your Mardi Gras celebrations this weekend. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@dom.skii/video/6930381557991542017[/embed] Proving that exceptional makeup talent isn't in short supply, @dom.skii brings us a second inspirational transformation clip full of pride. As Lady Gaga puts it, "Don't be a drag, just be a queen." [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/foryou?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v2#/@emmahorn/video/6929595838914186497[/embed] Emma Horn jumped on the Domino Lovers TikTok Challenge with her girlfriend, and how can you not beam with pride watching them dance together? Emma's TikTok is full of hilarious reaction videos and relatable content, so if you're in need of a pick-me-up, check out her channel. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@the_dancing_farmer/video/6928677043387272450[/embed] Bretty G, aka @the_dancing_farmer, says they're here to spread love and positivity. Here they do it with an enviable pair of pins and a fabulous strut in the countryside dirt. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@tomi.queen/video/6930570843546209538[/embed] In one of our favourite videos in the 'I'm So Pretty' makeup transition trend, Sydney drag queen Tomi shows us how it's done. If Reyanna Maria isn't on your Mardi Gras playlist for this weekend, rectify that now. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@kevininthecity/video/6931856237550193921[/embed] Sydney's Glitter King, @kevininthecity, isn't afraid to shine like a mirror ball. Here, they give us a masterclass in standing out from the crowd in one bold block of colour. Look out for Kevin in the City at this year's Mardi Gras Parade, as their face will be part of TikTok's official float alongside singer-songwriter G Flip. Download TikTok to watch more, and use the hashtag #JoinOurFloat to be part of TikTok's Mardi Gras float. Top image: Jeffrey Feng; Destination NSW
A 90s-style thriller that'd sit comfortably alongside Single White Female, Greta boasts one major attraction. It's never a chore to watch the great Isabelle Huppert on screen, and it's hardly unusual to see the 2017 Oscar nominee dive into unsettling territory, but this stalker tale adds more than just another title to her resume. For anyone who's ever wanted to witness the French acting icon being wheeled out of an upmarket New York restaurant in a straightjacket, spit gum menacingly at Chloë Grace Moretz or dance gleefully in stockinged feet while waving a gun around, this is the film for you. And while Greta never lives up to its star's efforts, or to its twisty, pulpy, trashy potential, it's just unhinged enough to mostly entertain — as long as you're willing to go along with it. As co-written by director Neil Jordan (Byzantium) and screenwriter Ray Wright (The Crazies), Greta's story is simple, involving a new NYC resident, a green handbag and a good deed gone wrong. When Frances McCullen (Moretz) spots an abandoned purse on a subway seat, she does the right thing and tracks down its owner. "Where I come from, that's what we do," the Boston native tells her incredulous roommate Erica (Maika Monroe), who suggests pocketing the contents instead. Serving up a fresh pot of coffee as a thank you, the eponymous Greta Hideg (Huppert) is immensely grateful for Frances' efforts, and a surrogate mother-daughter relationship springs between the two women. All's fine and well when they're rescuing a stray dog from the pound, catching up in the park and eating dinner together. But when Frances starts to doubt Greta's motives, the situation gets creepy very quickly. The loneliness of 21st-century city living is a fascinating and endlessly relevant topic — we've never been more crowded physically and more connected virtually, yet feeling isolated has hardly been relegated to the past. A thematically slight film, that's not Greta's main concern, even as it follows two characters who are well acquainted with the aforementioned sensation. Greta and Frances' general emotional wellbeing barely troubles the movie, and nor do their backstories, other than giving the duo absent family members that they're clearly trying to replace with each other. Here, what's happening is more important than the reasons behind it. Indeed, why the titular character behaves the way she does is given much less attention than her crazy actions and reactions — and let's just say that she doesn't respond nicely to discovering that her new friendship is under threat. As a result, Greta favours the mechanics of its cat-and-mouse narrative over any potential meaning. Really, the latter is straightforward: don't trust strangers. No really, don't. Not every film needs to overflow with depth, and there's a valuable truth in the movie's refusal to justify its craziness — sometimes horrible things happen without a satisfactory or extraordinary explanation, and sometimes seemingly ordinary, benign people are anything but. Still, the effect can be distancing. Although Huppert and Moretz both put in committed performances, there's very little reason to get invested in Greta's characters, their fight or their fates. Seasoned horror fans know this predicament well, with plenty of routine scary movies simply fine to journey from point A to point B without worrying about much of substance. To go through the motions, in other words. What makes Greta engaging isn't the film's story, which is sparse overall while also proving off-kilter and even preposterous at times. Rather, it's the fact that Jordan knows exactly what he's doing. A standard handbag that's made well still catches the eye, after all, as Frances learns and Greta uses to her advantage. With genre flicks such as The Company of Wolves and Interview with the Vampire to his name, the Irish filmmaker is happy to make the most of genre conventions, executing the expected twists and slick, moody style with a confidence that occasionally veers into winking at the audience. He's taking his cues from his antagonist: leaving something average yet alluring enough in plain view and tempting audiences to try their luck. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IK5pUVT-Sy4
Catch iiiiiiiiit! If summer for you was all about hitting the crease and making sure you yelled "out" as loudly as possible, you'll want to stop hitting refresh on your email and take a little break to reminisce over the good times. Together with TikTok, who ran a summer-long activation called #ClassicCatch in Australia, we've picked out five TikTok videos that have us wishing we'd spent more time perfecting our bowl. Here are five legends who did just that, showing us how to land the perfect catch on the sand to hitting a six in the sweltering Aussie heat. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@fairmoodz/video/6785779214101630214?lang=en[/embed] According to TikTok maker and photographer Joel (@fairmoodz), old mate Doug here has never played cricket before, yet he smashes it — only to be caught out. What a catch. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@harlsmalone/video/6745028181704625413?lang=en[/embed] What can we say? Harley has clearly been smashing the Weet-Bix for brekkie. No, you didn't just flip the dial to Channel Nine, @harlsmalone has only gone and given his beach cricket match an upgrade to professional level with a little audio. And why the hell not? Did you see that catch? Right between his teeth. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@kaybawa/video/6716017780166102277[/embed] Melbourne-based TikToker Kaybawa has opted for some truly inspired slo-mo action to show off his sweet bowling skills. He's also paired it with R Nait's beats, a stormy looking sky and the facial expression of a master. What a ledge. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@cricketdistrict/video/6900918387866619138[/embed] Hear that encouraging clap? These cricktokkers are not messing around. Cricket District posts hours of spins, bowls and LOLs on its page. This mid-air catch is a classic. [embed]https://www.tiktok.com/@bigmads/video/6813258573473238277[/embed] One of our personal faves, AFLW player Maddi Newman isn't just an all-rounder on the sports field but she's also a fan of Lizzo. Here, she brings three loves together in one clip (her dad, cricket and Lizzo) to show it ain't just the fellas hitting it out of the backyard this summer. Onya, Maddi. Download TikTok to watch more #ClassicCatch videos and look for TikTok's cricket themed activations in your city. Top image: Lochie Blanch; Unsplash
If you've seen the Disney Pixar film Up, chances are this picture is causing you a bit of déjà vu. As part of a new National Geographic television series, How Hard Can It Be, a team of scientists, engineers and balloon pilots recreated the scene from the hit flick in which 78 year-old Carl Frederickson escapes the ennui of his retirement home by tying balloons to his house and flying far away. Ben Howie, executive producer of the show, said the team "found it is actually close to impossible to fly a real house". After two weeks of intense planning, the team was successful in using an enormous cluster of helium balloons to lift a small, lightweight dwelling with several people inside. Each balloon required an entire tank of helium for inflation, and the house rose to a height of 3,500 metres, remaining airborne for around one hour. https://youtube.com/watch?v=C71rb-4_bOk [Via NOTCOT]
Over the past decade, streaming has become a firm part of every film and TV fan's life — providing more viewing choices, more places to find movies and television shows, and more excuses to spend hours and hours on the couch. But, it has also sparked a familiar dilemma. Too often, thanks to all of the options available, it's easy to while more time deciding what to check out next than actually watching something. Netflix is planning to release a solution to this problem in 2021, via a new feature. Due to rollout globally across the platform in the first half of the year, it's basically a shuffle function — and will automatically pick something for you to watch, rather than letting you keep scrolling and scrolling (and scrolling) trying to make a decision. The streaming platform revealed the news as part of its latest update to investors about its 2020 earnings, noting that the feature "gives members the ability to choose to instantly watch a title chosen just for them". Chief Operating Officer and Chief Product Officer Greg Peters said that the function would allow Netflix subscribers to indicate "that they just want to skip browsing entirely, click one button and we'll pick a title for them just to instantly play". Obviously, it seems that Netflix will be drawing upon its algorithm — as aided by your past viewing choices — to take your viewing choices out of your hands. It won't be called "I'm feeling lucky", Peters also noted, but that's the approach it'll be asking subscribers to go with in terms of finding something to watch next. The company has been testing this type of functionality in various forms over the past few years — and the concept is hardly new, as users of music streaming services know. In France at the end of 2020, Netflix also trialled a linear channel, which just played films and shows one after the other in the way that broadcast television does; however, Peters said that it is currently "unclear how that's going to work out". The idea behind these new features — whether they're just being trialled, or they're due to become permanent — is to keep people watching and encourage more folks to join up as subscribers, of course. More and more new streaming services pop up all the time, all vying for your eyeballs, or so it feels at least. That's also the reason that Netflix introduced its Top Ten lists in 2020, if you've been wondering why the platform started telling you that everyone was watching Tiger King, The Queen's Gambit and The Midnight Sky. Netflix's new shuffle feature is due to launch sometime in the first half of 2021 — we'll update you when more details are announced.
In 2022, beloved social enterprise Two Good Co opened a cafe and convenience store in Darlinghurst's Yirranma Place. The venue provides Sydneysiders with tasty breakfast and lunch options, as well as products from local ethically minded businesses such as Hunter Candles and Gelato Messina — all while raising funds to help Two Good's goal of supporting vulnerable women by providing pathways out of crisis living. Each month at the cafe, the crew brings in a well-known and well-loved chef or culinary team to create special one-off menu items. Kylie Kwong, Maggie Beer, Peter Gilmore and Matt Moran have all been on curating duties in the past, and the month of November 2023 sees the pleasure fall on acclaimed chef and award-winning restaurateur Mitch Orr. Orr is known for the influential but now-closed restaurant ACME, and his current work as Head Chef of Kiln at the Ace Hotel. A purveyor of all things innovative yet unpretentious, Orr brings a flavour-forward approach to Two Good Co's monthly menu. Available throughout November, the menu features two no-fuss lunch items and a little sweet treat. Orr's selections kick off with a stacked toastie — putting a creative spin on the familiar fave — starring generous slices of mortadella, smoky roasted peppers and melted provolone sandwiched between two slices of thick white toast. Also available: a fresh cucumber, piel de sapo and enoki salad accompanied by rice noodles and topped with a hot and sour dressing — a great vego lunch option. Rounding out the offerings is a decadent dessert. Indulge in a serving of black sesame tiramisu for smooth, velvety goodness with balanced sweetness. If you want to sample the menu, just head over to 262 Liverpool Street at some point this month.
Over the past two years, the Odd Culture Group has been busy. To name just a few of its endeavors, the hospitality team has brought back the beloved Duke of Enmore, opened its flagship King Street wine bar, given The Old Fitz's kitchen a huge revamp, and helped redesign the drinks menu at Club 77 as part of the iconic nightclub's resurgence. Most recently, Odd Culture has turned its attention to Petersham stalwart The Oxford Tavern, giving the beloved neighborhood pub its biggest aesthetic and culinary makeover in a decade. If you didn't notice The Tav close down for renovations — that's because it didn't. The pub is being worked on bit by bit while the other areas remain in use, and the first section of the major overhaul has been unveiled — a sleek and spacious front bar paying homage to the venue's history and a new look food and drinks menu. As you enter you'll be greeted by this expansive dining room boasting moody lighting, original Oxford Tavern neon signs and a photo wall dedicated to past iterations and memories of the New Canterbury Road spot. Gone is the stage, providing the bar with more room for dining, while also providing the owners the option to clear the tables and create a flowing open space for events and gigs. With the front-bar stage, the focus on American-style barbecue on the menu has also left. "We felt it was time to move away from the American BBQ focus which really enjoyed a golden era over the last decade," Odd Culture Group's Executive Chef James MacDonald said. "We've moved to an elevated and modern pub menu with classics done well that have more of a world influence rather than just the USA." Fans of The Tav's smoked meats need not worry though, the beer garden's smoker will still be in full use whipping up chicken wings, beef for brisket pies and lamb for the incredibly moreish lamb and feta pappardelle. And, thankfully the pub's beloved Sunday roast also isn't going anywhere. Elsewhere on the menu, there are two styles of dishes essential to a good pub menu — top-notch mains and crowd-pleasing share plates to enjoy over a drink. Snack-wise, you can't go past the taramasalata with bread fresh off the grill. There's also smoked eggplant dip, curry-spiced cauliflower, zesty salt and pepper squid, and chicken liver pate. Turn to the mains and you can go the expected route — chicken schnitzel, steak or fish of the day — or you can head down the path less traveled in the realm of pub feeds. There's half-a-kilo of mussels or the aforementioned pappardelle, and the ricotta ravioli in brown sage butter is reminiscent of the simple but irresistible dishes you'd find at Sydney's top Italian restaurants. Completing the new-look Oxford Tavern is the drinks — a specialty of the Odd Culture Group. The wine list is varied but not intimidating, jumping around from classic drops to funky varieties including pét-nats, chilled reds and orange wines. There's a playful array of house cocktails including frozen margaritas and the must-try puncheon sour made with Jameson Black Barrel. And, the juicer can be fired up to make the Sydney favourite, a fresh apple juice with your choice of whiskey or rum. "There's nothing better than being able to eat and drink seriously well at your local boozer and this is what we do best," Odd Culture Group Beverage Manager Jordan Blackman said. The renovations will continue to unfold over time, with the next stage of renovations will see the wall between the back bar and the beer garden opened up with bifold doors. The Oxford Tavern is located at 1 New Canterbury Road, Petersham. It's open midday–midnight Monday–Thursday, midday–2am Friday, midday–3am Saturday and midday–10pm Sunday. Images: Kitti Gould
Tuesday, February 17, marks the 2026 Lunar New Year: a time for family feasts, good fortune, well-wishing, and a fresh start. For Lotus Dining Group executive chef Steve Wu, it's his favourite time of year. "To me, it is a celebration dedicated entirely to family and connection. A holiday where relatives who haven't seen each other in a long while gather to share meals filled with blessings." Steve grew up in Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, a place renowned worldwide for its incredible food culture and warm hospitality. While Steve has been based in Sydney since 2012 and is now the chef behind local restaurants Pearl Dining, Lotus and the Dumpling Bar in Circular Quay and Summer Hill, his culinary roots reach back to his childhood. "My mother was a traditional housewife who mastered the craft passed down from my grandmother. Every festival, she would hand-make everything — from Nian Gao (rice cakes) to Zongzi — using the most traditional methods," Steve tells Concrete Playground. "Watching my mother cook and helping her transform raw ingredients into a festive feast was the most captivating thing to me. That process is truly what inspired me to become a professional chef." Lunar New Year in Australia may look different from the festivities of his childhood, but Steve is still using food to reconnect with his culture. "Nowadays, you see major events and activities all over Sydney, and even Western restaurants have started incorporating Lunar New Year elements into their menus. It's become a shared experience for all Australians," says Steve. "For Chinese restaurants, this is the busiest period of the year, so we celebrate in the thick of the action. However, on my rare days off, I love heading to Yummy Seafood in Beverly Hills for a proper Chinese feast." To celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year, Steve has created a recipe for Pan-Fried John Dory Fillet made with S&B Golden Curry. The pre-mix sauce lets you easily recreate restaurant-quality flavour at home this Lunar New Year, and the sauce's golden hue fits the festive theme. "In Chinese culture, we have a saying: "Nian Nian You Yu" (年年有餘), which means "May there be a surplus every year." Because the word for fish (Yu) sounds exactly like the word for surplus, a fish dish is an absolute must-have on the table to bring good fortune." If you want to try the dish yourself this Lunar New Year, follow Steve's recipe below. PAN-FRIED JOHN DORY FILLET Ingredients: 200g of John Dory fillet (if you can't find John Dory fillet, any type of fish works well) Plain Flour (as needed) Pinch of S&B Seasoned Salt and Pepper 2 cubes of S&B Golden Curry Mild 92g 200 ml of chicken stock 1/4 piece of onion, diced 50g of diced carrot Olive or vegetable oil (as needed) Steamed rice (as needed, for serving) Pickled red ginger Method: To Prepare the Fish Use paper towels to pat the fillet dry. Season both sides of the fillets with a pinch of S&B Seasoned Salt and Pepper. Place plain flour on a plate. Dredge the fish fillets to coat them evenly with a thin layer, then shake off any excess. Make the Golden Curry Heat a small amount of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and carrot for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Pour in the 200 ml of stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, then cook for 10 minutes with the lid. Add the 2 S&B Golden Curry cubes. Stir until the cubes are completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Turn the heat back to low, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Keep warm. Pan-Fry the Fish Fillets Heat a clean frying pan, then add the oil over medium heat. Carefully place the coated fish fillet into the hot oil. Pan-fry each side for about 3–4 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown. Remove the fillets and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Plating and Serving Ladle the hot Golden Curry Sauce in the middle of the plate. Place the pan-fried John Dory fillet on top of the curry sauce, served with pickled ginger. Serve with rice. Steve's top tip? "Chop up the Golden Curry cubes before you put them in the pan to prevent them from burning. And if there's any curry left on the plate, get some bread and scoop it up — you won't regret it" Feeling inspired by Steve's recipe? For the tenth year in a row, Asian Inspirations is hosting the Lunar New Year Cook Snap Win competition. There are $20,000 in prizes to be won, including the grand prize: the ultimate foodie travel adventure for two. Head to the Asian Inspiration website to learn how you could win big. Discover more recipes. Image credit: Josh Mullins
Back with a new lease on life, Sydney's oldest pub, the Fortune of War, is ready to receive guests again almost 200 years after it first opened. Relaunching with the new 60-seat Bistro 1828 and an expansive breakfast offering, this storied venue's next chapter is bound to be a bright one in its enduring history. Nestled in a heritage-listed building, two neighbouring retail stores and a bar were carefully transformed to create the new bistro, with its name serving as a nod to the year former convict Samuel Terry founded this venerable institution. While the venue has been revamped, maintaining its old-world character was a vital consideration for WDS Hotels group co-owner Steve Speed. Inside, design details reflect the building's immense legacy, from beaten copper panelling to 19th-century medicine bottles and old maps. Says Speed: "We had outgrown the previous space, so by opening Bistro 1828, more people are able to enjoy the historic charm, character and sense of community that accompanies every visit to Sydney's oldest pub." From its home on the corner of George and Globe Streets, the bar offers a mix of high, table and bench seating. Slide into the Italian leather banquettes to sip down a cold brew as the sun streams in through the stained-glass windows. Then, in the main dining room, floor-to-ceiling windows and an elevated rear space provide several cosy spots to suit your mood. Meanwhile, a new open kitchen slots between these zones, significantly increasing the venue's capabilities, with an extensive breakfast offering an exciting addition. Led by new Executive Chef Mark Williamson (The Woollahra Hotel), the menu spans classic and signature options, like avo on toast, eggs benedict and breakfast burgers, alongside the Fortune of War big breakfast. Plus, there's a new bloody mary made with the pub's secret recipe set to give your day a boost. "Going out for breakfast is such an Australian tradition, so we're thrilled to now offer it at this iconic location, whether you're enjoying it as part of your hotel stay or passing by," says Speed. The venue's all-day dining menu has also been expanded and elevated, with guests welcome to order from it in the original pub, Bistro 1828 or amid the sunny alfresco area. Regulars will be happy to know that much-loved favourites like the beef and Guinness stew and the fish and chips are still on the menu, while Williamson has added fresh salads, pastas and shared starters. Meanwhile, a Sunday roast will be served in the near future. The Fortune of War's accommodation has also received a complete renovation, with the upstairs Russell Boutique Hotel ready for bookings. Featuring 28 rooms with unique designs, each offers a sophisticated blend of modern comforts and vintage charm, from antique furnishings to marble fireplaces. "[The Fortune of War] has been a destination watering hole for almost 200 years, and this renovation will ensure it stays that way for the next 200," says Speed. Bistro 1828 is open daily from 7am–late, while the Fortune of War opens from 9am at 137 George St, The Rocks. Head to the website for more information. Images: Kitti Gould / David Li.
Seven people. That's the maximum capacity in The Vault, Kimpton Margot Sydney's new pop-up speakeasy that can seat no more than six guests at a time. Hidden within the bowels of the heritage-listed building — more specifically, in the former Water Board Building's original bank vault — this properly tiny bar is tucked beneath the hotel's expansive lobby (pictured below), and is now serving up a selection of drams from boutique Tasmanian distillery Lark. The Vault clocks in at just 8.5 square metres — for the visual learners among us, that makes it roughly half the size of celebrated pocket-sized Sydney cocktail den Cantina OK!. What The Vault lacks in physical size, however, it more than makes up for in experience, setting the mood with low lighting, heritage shelves lined with bottles and a single whisky barrel table. Open through to the end of July, The Vault is dedicated entirely to whisky tastings, showcasing four premium drams by internationally celebrated Tasmanian distillery Lark. The lineup has been curated by founder Bill Lark, and includes the Chinotto Cask, Classic Cask, Peated Whisky and a limited-edition Dark Lark single malt with rich notes of papaya, fig pudding, berry compote and maple-glazed almonds. The drams have been selected to sip back to back and are served alongside seasonal canapes by chef Luke Mangan of the hotel's Luke's Kitchen. Each one-hour tasting session is $110, but whisky aficionados can opt to elevate their experience even further with a taste of Lark's Mizunara Rare Oak Cask — a Japanese-inspired drop matured in coveted Mizunara oak — for an additional $60. [caption id="attachment_920155" align="alignnone" width="1947"] Kimpton Margot Sydney[/caption] The Vault hosts two daily sessions from Wednesday to Sunday, but with space at such a premium, bookings are essential. It's a more than worthy standalone experience, but it can also be tacked onto dinner plans at Luke's Kitchen upstairs. Come August, the space will transform into a rum-focused bar — but for now, this subterranean experience should become a winter must-visit for whisky lovers and the whisky-curious alike. The Vault is now open at Kimpton Margot Sydney. The one-hour sessions take place Wednesday–Saturday at 6pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 4pm and 6pm, until Thursday, July 31. Bookings are essential. For more information, head to the venue's website.
Wheelhaus, on Enmore Road, specialised in bicycles from select manufacturers, including Focus, Cervélo and Stoemper, as well as clothing and saddle bags by Attaquer. Road, gravel and cyclocross (CS) bikes are this store's, er, wheelhouse. It reserves bikes, like Cervélo's Aspero 2021, ahead of time, and makes for a pretty punk place to pick up new wheels. [caption id="attachment_777023" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] As well as ordering in small batches of the latest cycles, the shop is well-stocked with accessories like tie-dye jerseys made by owner Greg Hamer's line of cycling clothing, which is designed in Sydney, made in Italy. It's also a nice shop to pop into on your way to Enmore Park, which is close enough by when you want to take your new bike for a test ride. Image: Cassandra Hannagan
The Sydney Design Festival will return from March 1–10, showcasing the best in Australian and international design in a whopping 138 events taking place across the city. Curated by Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), this year's festival theme is 'accessing design' — a challenge to broaden the term's definition — and spans tours, workshops, exhibitions, panel discussions, makers markets and podcasts. The festivities will begin with Methodic Optimism, a talk by award-winning architect Ana Luisa Soares, who hails from Portugal's Fala Atelier design firm. Additional highlighted speakers include Rachel Wingfield of London studio Loop.pH, preeminent Japanese-Australian fashion designer Akira Isogawa, and blind design practitioner Duncan Meerding. Other discussions topics include cultural and social development, aged care and housing, issues of accessibility and a new age of recycling. You'll want to visit the Powerhouse Museum, if not just to check out the immersive Agora installation. Commissioned by the museum and created by architecture film Penhale and Winter, the space acts as a meeting place for those interested in design and science. As far as exhibitions go, an interactive musical installation has been created by MAAS Research Fellow Ollie Bown, and will be on display at the Australian Design Centre for the duration of the festival. Over at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, a new program will explore the Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural practice of delicate shell necklaces. Plus, Golden Age Cinema will present Jiro Dreams of Sushi, the Australian Design Centre will host a makers market and a live podcast recording of In Situ Science will take place on March 6. Yes, it's a lot to sort through. Luckily MAAS has also provided these festival itineraries, which focus on certain topics of interest, such as women in design, indigenous design and shaping the future. Image: Atmeture by Loop.
