Category: LIFESTYLE

Dog lovers’ festival coming to Brisbane

Puppy labradore dog

Brace yourselves, Brisbane dog enthusiasts! After a six-year hiatus, the most anticipated event in the canine calendar is making an eagerly awaited comeback! Prepare to indulge in a weekend full of furry fun and excitement at the nation’s favourite Dog Lovers Festival, returning to Brisbane , 9-10 March 2024 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC). This two-day extravaganza promises to be an unforgettable affair crammed with K9-focused amusement, expert insights, and a plethora of pooch-related revelry. We’re not just talking about wagging tails; the festival line-up is nothing short of spectacular, with live performances by some of the nation’s most skilled dogs, illuminating talks by distinguished dog experts, and representation from an array of leading breed clubs and adoption groups. Sneak a cuddle in the pat-a-pooch zone, or treat your four-legged friend to the ultimate shopping spree with the latest doggy products and services. “South-East Queensland boasts a community with an incredible passion for dogs,” states Jason Humphris, the Festival Founder. With the rise in dog ownership, this event provides the perfect opportunity to welcome new dog owners and those contemplating the addition of a furry companion to their lives. The ADVANCETM Stage: Where Stars Are Born! Expect a star-studded line-up led by the charismatic Shelly Horton, keeping you entertained all weekend. Sit in on expert sessions from TV’s own Dr Claire Stevens, and learn tricks of the trade from the dynamic duo, Dr Katrina Warren & Kelly Gill. Instagram’s beloved dog-fluencers will also hit the stage, and don’t miss the adored cartoon… Read More

The latest best tech for your next trip

Belkin cables

In an era where convenience and sustainability are not just valued but expected, Belkin steps up to the plate with a striking innovation: the new BoostCharge Hybrid Wall Charger + Power Bank 5K with Travel Adapter Kit. This sleek, compact device rolls the efficiency of a dynamic wall charger and the mobility of a durable power bank into one seamless solution — and it has just hit the Australian market, ready to redefine how we power our lives. The BoostCharge Hybrid isn’t merely a gadget; it’s a thoughtful companion for the modern nomad. With its portable design and powerful dual charging capability, it ensures your tech essentials are juiced up wherever your travels take you. Imagine seamlessly charging your smartphone and tablet simultaneously, with a total of 45W split between a 25W USB-C PD3.0 PPS wall charger and a 20W power bank — because even in the wilds of adventure, or the hustle of business trips, staying powered shouldn’t slow you down. Belkin anchors this innovation with a firm commitment to the environment. By constructing the hybrid charger with a minimum of 75% post-consumer recycled plastics and encasing it in 100% plastic-free packaging, Belkin asserts its responsible ethos, making sure your latest tech addition leaves a minimal footprint. The esteem for design extends beyond aesthetics and into the pragmatic. The BoostCharge comes with a variety of interchangeable plugs catering to global voltage standards, and the USB-C to USB-C cable included covers a generous 3.3ft/1m span, ensuring setup snags are a concern of the past. And… Read More

Reuben Kaye for one night only at Sydney Opera House

Reuben Kaye Sydney Opera House Joan Sutherland Theatre performers 2

Prepare yourselves for an evening of uproarious laughter and spectacular vocals as the dazzling Reuben Kaye graces the Joan Sutherland Theatre once more with “Opera Up Late” – an unparalleled fusion of opera and comedy that promises more than just a night at the theatre. Hailed as the diamond at the heart of last year’s WorldPride festival, this comical genius will captivate you on Friday, 1st March, for a one-night extravaganza that guarantees to annihilate the conventional boundaries of classical and cabaret. Picture the scene: the clock strikes 10:45 pm, and a murmur of anticipation ripples through the hallowed hallways of the Sydney Opera House. The stage ignites with a spectacle of colour and the air thrums with iconic operatic melodies, reborn with a refreshingly irreverent twist. With Reuben Kaye at the helm, this event draws together the creme de la creme of Australian talent, including operatic tenor Benjamin Rasheed and the effervescent Georgina Hopson, to name but a few. Reuben Kaye is an unparalleled mastery of satire, combined with a vocal prowess that defies expectation, crafts an experience that is at once breathtaking and wildly unorthodox. This is not your grandmother’s night at the opera. It’s an invitation to partake in something revolutionary, a chance to witness the extraordinary, a rendezvous with the sublime and the ridiculous. Those familiar with Kaye will recognise his inimitable style: vivid, audacious, and endlessly entertaining. “Carmen at eight years old was just the overture,” Kaye quips with signature flair. Prepare for the crescendo as he delivers what could… Read More

Opera Australia and Victorian Opera’s ‘Idomeneo’

Idomeneo opera

Opera connoisseurs and newcomers alike are poised to be captivated as Opera Australia and Victorian Opera unveil their first ever collaboration, bringing Idomeneo to the prestigious stage of the Joan Sutherland Theatre within Sydney’s iconic Opera House. From an impressive debut on the 20th of February to a compelling close on the 15th of March, 2024, theatre-goers can bask in the enthralling narrative that Mozart so timelessly composed. This partnership heralds a new era for Australian performing arts, showcasing the synergetic prowess of two leading orchestral titans as they orchestrate world-class operatic storytelling. At its core, Idomeneo is a profound meditation on the quintessence of human nature, delving into perilous seas of love, politics, and familial tension, all anchored in the aftermath of the Trojan War. It is a heartfelt exploration of human resolve in the face of dread and the harrowing trials posed by the gods. The visionary Lindy Hume directs this masterpiece, illuminating Mozart’s 18th-century touchstone through an Age of Enlightenment lens. Her direction imbues the production with a vibrant visual narrative, one that mirrors the stoic beauty and ferocious power of ancient Crete. Audiences will traverse mythic landscapes, masterfully depicted by the creative trifecta of cinematographer Catherine Pettman and the acclaimed design duo, David Bergman and Michael Yeargan. To speak of this awe-inspiring spectacle is to acknowledge Broadway World’s acclamation for its “theatrical design excellence,” where set, video, and captivating cinematography coalesce to bewitch and transport viewers. Under the luminescent glow of Verity Hampson’s lighting, the tale unfolds with an impressive lead… Read More

Adam Lambert headlining Sydney Mardi Gras

ADAM LAMBERT credit Joseph Sinclair

As the countdown to the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras draws to a fervent pace, a seismic announcement has set the community abuzz: Grammy-nominated artist Adam Lambert is poised to headline the extravagance. This revelation has sent ripples of excitement through the vibrant center of Sydney, promising an event that will etch itself into the annals of LGBTQIA+ celebration. Adam Lambert, a vocal powerhouse whose career has continually intersected with activism and advocacy for the community, leads a constellation of over 150 artists announced for the Festival’s centerpiece events. The anticipation reaches a zenith with the potentials of the undisputedly magnetic international superstar taking the stage. Mardi Gras 2024 is engineered to surpass all former precedents, boasting a diverse array of talent that includes legends like CeCe Peniston, revered for anthems like “Finally,” and the captivating Slayyyter, set to deliver an Australian-exclusive performance at the Bondi Beach Party. Echoing Lambert’s unparalleled influence in the music industry, a plethora of adored Australian acts like Cub Sport and MAY-A will grace various stages, enveloping the Festival in an eclectic blanket of musical and performance artistry. With such a cornucopia of stars lined up, Sydney’s Mardi Gras stands as a beacon of not only inclusive celebration but also an exhibition of phenomenal talent and LGBTQIA+ excellence. This year contends to be a riveting display of culture and pride, where the Hordern Pavilion is to transform into a warehouse haven of contemporary and Chicago house vibes, thanks to the charisma of Adam Lambert and the likes of… Read More

Tips to not be a dickhead at the beach

AQUABUMPS Bondi Beach with Canon

As the sun graces the Australian skyline, our pristine coasts beckon with their shimmering waves and golden sands. However, beneath the allure of our renowned beaches, a pressing concern emerges: the quintessential beach etiquette—or rather, the lack thereof. A groundbreaking survey by Preply has shed light on this issue, providing invaluable insight into the behaviours that are marring the experiences of many a beach-goer and, consequently, how these faux pas can be mitigated. The results are in, and Australians have spoken: 55% are irked by the presence of pets, 48% frown upon swimming outside designated zones, and 46% would rather not witness public displays of affection at the beach. Unsurprisingly, Bondi Beach garners the notoriety for less-than-commendable conduct, a sentiment echoingly closely followed by beautiful yet bustling beaches in Surfers Paradise and St Kilda. Yet, how do we navigate these choppy waters of beach manners? It’s simpler than you might think. Preply’s study suggests that ignoring undesirable behaviour is the go-to for 55%, whilst a forthright 24% opt for a polite reminder of the common courtesies. A mere 8% take to social media as their platform of choice for etiquette enforcement. Our beloved sandy stretches are not just for recreation but are ecosystems demanding respect. Feeding seagulls, littering, failing to adhere to safety norms—such as designated surf and swim zones—are all actions acclaimed for their absence. Cultivating an environment of respect and safety is the collective responsibility of all beach-goers, ensuring every trip to these terrestrial paradises is nothing short of spectacular. In the campaign… Read More

Bottomless aperitivo at Don Fred Sydney

Don Fred pasta wine

Bid farewell to the days of endless eggs Benedicts and mimosas at brunch; it’s time to embrace the Italian flair of ‘Bottomless Aperitivo’ at Don Fred, nestled in the vivacious Newtown. This culinary delight has been a cornerstone of Italian culture for generations, and now Sydneysiders have the pleasure of indulging in this timeless tradition. Nothing captures the essence of Italian dining like the leisurely spread of exquisitely crafted courses, each designed to tantalize the palate, complemented by a cascade of curated spritzes. Priced with charm and accessibility in mind, at $49 per person, a three-course extravaganza awaits you at this newly unveiled Paninoteca Bar, serving adoring patrons from Friday to Sunday, noon till the stars claim the sky. But for those with a penchant for something truly spectacular, the ‘Bottomless Spritz’ offering beckons. Indulge in the zesty and spirited effervescence of an Aperol or Lemon Gin Spritz for an additional $65 per person—an accompaniment that transforms dining into a celebration.Don Fred’s menu is a symphony of culinary delights: start with a delicate capsicum carpaccio or the inventive garlic konjac with black rice, move on to a hearty polpetz on polenta, and conclude with a choice of a decadent chocolate mousse or a tropical coconut pannacotta. Please note, this elegant feast requires an online booking for a minimum duo of gourmands. Don Fred’s ‘Bottomless Aperitivo’ doesn’t just offer a meal; it offers an experience—a chance to seamlessly blend the enjoyment of splendid food and drink with the joy of conversation and camaraderie. Situated at 28… Read More

Mardi Gras party at the parade on Hyde Park

Pullman Sydney Mardi Gras party

Step inside the wonder of Sydney’s most vibrant prelude to the legendary festival—the PRE-GAME MARDI GRAS PARTY at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park is the place to kickstart your celebration in style. Unleash your spirit, UN-HYDE YOUR PRIDE, and revel in an evening where the world truly is your playground. They’re calling all fun-loving souls to level up your Mardi Gras experience; don’t just join the parade, lead it with flamboyance and panache! As the sun dips below the horizon on Saturday, 2nd March 2024, prepare for an extravaganza from 5pm to 9pm. Enjoy the luxury of first-class entertainment, free flowing drinks, delicious roaming bites, and the hottest DJs setting the mood for an evening brimming with good vibes. And remember, part of our allure is location, location, location—you’ve got front row access to the parade’s radiant beginning. The time to hesitate is over! Secure your ticket today with our FIRST RELEASE at $229—because why wait when you can ensure your spot at this spectacular gathering? Remember, prices ascend with each release, and you’ll want to be part of the most fabulous Mardi Gras party in Sydney. So dress to impress, rally your friends, and let’s make memories that will sparkle long past the last float has passed. Let’s make this Mardi Gras one for the history books together because when it comes to celebrating love and equality, we don’t just party, we soar. Book here

Kowloon Cafe Express opens in Chatswood, Sydney

Chinese Kowloon Cafe

Chatswood has just welcomed its latest culinary gem, the renowned Kowloon Cafe Express, which opened its doors on the 12th of January, 2024. This marks the fourth establishment under the Kowloon Cafe umbrella, breathing life into Chatswood’s vibrant food scene with its unique Hong Kong-inspired ambience and cuisine. The grand opening of Kowloon Cafe Express is not merely the inauguration of another eatery; it symbolises an ongoing commitment to delivering an authentic slice of Hong Kong, artistically curated by Howin Chui and Howard Leei. The duo, known for their expertise in crafting niche Asian dining experiences, continue to weave cultural threads from their native Hong Kong into Sydney’s tapestry, encapsulating rich traditions with every dish served. “Howin’s vision to translate the spirit of Hong Kong into every element of his cafes – from melody to menu – has been once again realised with the opening of Chatswood’s Kowloon Cafe Express,” commented Darren Kong of Kong Studios, the architectural maestro behind the cafe’s design. Passersby can step off the bustling streets into a haven of nostalgia and new memories, perfect for fast-paced Sydneysiders who still covet the pleasure of dining. The cafe’s highlights include the Crispy Butter Pineapple Bun, the equally photogenic and palate-pleasing Hong Kong-style French Toast, and an array of beverages from traditional HK Style Condensed Milk Tea to the inventive Ribena with Vanilla Ice Cream. With Chui at the helm, Kowloon Cafe Express is set to become a cornerstone of culinary excellence in Chatswood, reinforcing the suburb’s status as a go-to destination for… Read More

Don Fred Sydney is hosting bottomless

Millon rose wine

Whilst the art of savoring a meal has been perfected by Italians for centuries, Sydneysiders are now invited to embrace this tradition of leisurely summer dining within Newtown’s lively streets. At Don Fred, a genuine Italian Paninoteca Bar has opened its doors on 28 King Street, presenting a luscious three-course set menu at just $49 per person. From noon to evening, every Friday through Sunday, treat yourself to this exquisite experience from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Elevate the occasion with our Bottomless Spritz option for an additional $65 per person, enjoying endless sips of aromatic Aperol or tangy Lemon Gin Spritz. These effervescent libations are the perfect complement to your elegant dining affair and spirited exchanges, adding a refreshing zest that encapsulates the essence of summer*. The crafted menu includes: Whether it’s to relax post-work, rendezvous with friends, or indulge in a pre-dinner aperitivo before delving into Sydney’s dynamic nightlife, Don Fred’s Bottomless Aperitivo embodies the epitome of summer evenings spent unwinding in style. Address: 28 King Street, Newtown, New South Wales, 2042, Sydney, Australia. Wednesday – Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.