Dog lovers’ festival coming to Brisbane

Posted: 05/02/2024

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

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES

Tags: Brisbane dog festival, Dog's festival

Jewish International Film Festival is on across Australia this October

Jewish International FIlm Festival woman

by James Banham

Posted: 24/09/2023

This year, the Jewish International Film Festival (JIFF) returns to Australian screens from 23 October – 6 December, presenting a diverse array of enchanting and enlightening tales from Jewish cinema worldwide. Boasting 55 Australian premiere films from 19 countries, the Festival programme includes 30 feature films, 20 documentaries, two series, and six short films, alongside a suite of live events across Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, and the Gold Coast. According to Artistic Director Eddie Tamir, the 2023 JIFF reflects the timeless resilience and adaptability of the Jewish spirit, offering a remarkable line-up of films from the deepest roots of Yiddish culture to Australian stories and boundary-pushing tales. He described the Festival as an immersive journey that reflects on the past and acts as a beacon for the future. The Festival begins with the Australian Premiere of ‘Matchmaking,’ Israel’s biggest blockbuster of 2023. This romantic comedy, directed by the mastermind behind ‘Magic Men’, has won the Audience Award at the Miami Jewish Film Festival and takes audiences on a journey with Moti Bernstein, an Ashkenazi ideal who defies tradition for Nechama, a Mizrahi beauty. As for Australian stories, JIFF 2023 invites audiences to delve deep into history and emotion. ‘Revenge: Our Dad the Nazi Killer’ thrusts viewers into the post-WWII era, where three brothers uncover their father’s suspected revenge spree against Nazis. The closing night film, ‘The Jewish Nazi?’, follows the astounding journey of Alex Kurzem, made “Hitler’s youngest soldier” by a Latvian Nazi battalion after the massacre of his Belarusian family. The Festival’s… Read More

Category: CITIES, ADELAIDE, ARTS & CULTURE, BRISBANE, CANBERRA, HOBART, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, MELBOURNE, PERTH, SYDNEY

Tags: brisbane, canberra, documentaries, film festival, gold coast, hobart, Jewish cinema, Jewish International Film Festival, JIFF, melbourne, perth, sydney

Taking bands back to their roots: Crooked Colours in Brisbane

by James Banham

Updated: 23/01/2023

Aussie music legends, Crooked Colours, will head back to the venue that gave them their big break, The Brightside, Brisbane, for a one-night only gig open to the public on 9 March 2023. So if local music vibes are your thing – preferably with a drink-in-hand courtesy of Smirnoff, then this is for you. It’s happening thanks to the Smirnoff Origins series where Smirnoff Seltzer is taking Australia’s biggest musicians back to the venues that gave them their start, supported by the country’s most hotly-tipped talent. In a series of one-night-only intimate gigs hosted along the eastern seaboard, the events-Smirnoff Origins-will pay homage to the crucial role that live music plays in helping emerging talent cut their teeth, build their fan base and become fully fledged stars. Crooked Colours are next to step up to the stage, returning to Brisbane’s much loved nightclub,The Brightside on March 9, 2023.The Perth based duo found their feet at the iconic Brisbane venue, and this summer they will return to the venue where they honed their skills as musicians, generated fans and found their love for performing. Following on from one of the band’s biggest inspirations The Presets, whose Smirnoff Origins Sydney show sold out within 30 minutes, the next instalment of Smirnoff Origins is sure to be the hottest gig this summer. Crooked Colours are also tasked with finding Smirnoff’s hottest opening act, putting the call out to Queenslanders to find an emerging new artist to open their show. The chosen artist will also receive a $5,000 performance fee,double gold tickets… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, BRISBANE, CITIES, FEATURES, MUSIC

Tags: Crooked Colours, Smirnoff Origins, Taking bands back to their roots Crooked Colours in Brisbane

High tea in Brisbane? Head to the Sheraton Gold Grand Mirage Resort

by James Banham

Posted: 06/12/2022

Homemade scones served with an Indigenous plum jam: the star of a decadent new High Tea menu at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast this summer. And we’re already there, where are you? The newest initiative by the sun-soaked resort, the high tea will be served daily in the elegant surrounds of Pearls Bar from December 1, where you will enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury dishes while sipping sparkling wine and unlimited herbal teas or coffee, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and tropical palms in the background. The most interesting part about it, though, is the ‘indigenous’ plum jam. The resort has begun to work with Indigenous farmers to cultivate native fruits, herbs and seeds and The Australian Superfood Co sources the raw ingredients from the Northern Territory, before shipping it to Tasmania where it is manufactured for Trepang Foods. If ever there was a taste of true Australia, the Gold Coast is where you’ll find it. For more information and bookings, visit www.pearlsbar.com.au

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Brisbane high tea, Sheraton Brisbane, Sheraton Gold Grand Mirage Resort, Sheraton high tea, sheraton hotel

Your favourite Aussie bartenders add local flavour to 4th of July cocktails

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 06/07/2022

The 4th of July may pass Australians by with nary a thought, but what if we told you it was worth celebrating this year with an American classic cocktail in hand, but with a local twist. Partnering with ‘Cheers! Spirits from the USA’, 22 well-known Australian bartenders and mixologists lent their expertise to creating a free cocktail book for Independence Day, containing a range of cocktails that hero American spirits, but with an Aussie twist, and designed specifically to be made and enjoyed ar home. The cocktail list highlights the quality and versatility of American spirit brands including Angel’s Envy, Jack Daniels, Koval, Maker’s Mark, Old Forester, Wild Turkey, Westland, Westward American Single Malt Whiskey and Woodford Reserve. Once you download the cocktail book, the recipes are yours to keep, but if you do prefer someone else making your drinks (you’re only human), the participating bartenders will also have them available at their venue from June 27-July 4. Have a gander at the below list of bartenders and their creations, plus the venue to find them at: Simon Hopkins (Jolene’s Sydney – NSW) puts a chocolate spin on the classic Old Fashioned using Westward Whiskey. Dan Gregory (The Gresham Bar – QLD) is showcasing a Woodford Reserve Goin’ Out West. Adam Lau (Grain Bar – NSW) develops the DJ Sutherland celebrating Westland American Oak Whiskey. Grace Rawlins (Memphis Slim’s House of Blues – SA) is using Westland Peated Whiskey in the innovative Spicy Peat cocktail. Chris Garner (The Barrie – NSW) is highlighting Wild Turkey… Read More

Category: ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, RECIPES, SYDNEY

Tags: american cocktails, cocktails, free cocktail book, free recipe book

Brisbane Good Food Month is back this July!

by THE F

Posted: 27/05/2021

Covid-what? Brisbane’s annual Citi-sponsored Good Food Month is back with a vengeance, returning this July and reminding locals and visitors why the city’s known for fab feeds. With everyone turning out for the event, think Queensland’s own Alanna Sapwell brings her pop-up restaurant Esmay back to Brisbane after touring around the country; Ben Williamson’s fire-fuelled Agnes will be welcoming Melbourne’s own master of fire, Dave Verheul of hatted Embla into the kitchen for the perfect fiery feast; Louis Tikaram is set to mentor some of the region’s brightest up-and-coming chefs as they put on a fine four-course lunch at Howard Smith Wharves; Shane Delia joins forces with fellow hatted chef, Adam Wolfers at Gerard’s Bistro for an inspiring Middle Eastern feast; and Shannon Martinez will pay tribute to the vibrant Tel Aviv dining scene with a tantalising plant-based menu at Za Za Ta Bar & Kitchen. Tickets will be available from 27 May from goodfoodmonth.com/brisbane. You should start planning your attack now. Here are 5 must-do events while you’re there and where they are: Inchcolm Bar | 3 Martini Lunch 12pm – 3pm, Fridays throughout July for $59 Celebrate Good Food Month with a 3 Martini Lunch at Inchcolm Bar every Friday throughout July. Enjoy three signature martinis with a choice of entree and main for just $59 per person. Walter’s Steakhouse | Chefs Table No. 3: Smoke 6pm – 9pm, 27 July for $120 Bringing a timeliness charm to downtown Brisbane, Walter’s Steakhouse serves up premium, dry-aged sizzling steak, prepared and cooked with specialised… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Brisbane Good Food Month, Brisbane Good Food Month is back this July

Cruise the Brown Snake – GoBoat Brisbane is taking bookings

by James Banham

Posted: 25/04/2021

Coming to a pop-up location at Dockside Marina Kangaroo Point for a limited time only, GoBoat’s taking bookings for their floating picnic set-ups on water. Sail the Brisbane River in one of six boats, taking in the city’s views and staying super dry in Danish-designed trendiness. For only $109 per hour – the longer you book, the more you save – each GoBoat features a communal recycled timber picnic table for easy cheese platters or picnic set ups, with all boats featuring a sunshade for protection. For an ideal sunny day out without the excess travel, GoBaot’s a solid choice for a date, friends or generally something to do that doesn’t involve staying at home! For more and to book, go here.

Category: BRISBANE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Cruise the Brown Snake GoBoat Brisbane is taking bookings, GoBoat, GoBoat Brisbane, Things to do Brisbane

Brisbane Queer Film Festival is back this March 11-21

by James Banham

Posted: 07/03/2021

Featuring a program of bold, defiant and refreshingly authentic queer storytelling by and for the queer community, the annual Brisbane Queer Film Festival’s back for 2021. Taking place at New Farm Cinemas, the festival program is made up of 14 features, 3 shorts sessions, 6 documentaries, with 17 Queensland premieres, and 3 Australian premieres, and special presentations of the auteur of Taiwanese Second Wave cinema, Tsai Ming-Liang’s Days (Rizi), in partnership with Queensland Film Festival; 25th anniversary screening of Bloodsisters in partnership with Sissy Screens and Institute of Modern Art. Some highlights to look out for are: The tender and playful UK documentary, Posy Dixon’s Keyboard Fantasies, the story of Beverly Glenn-Copeland a trans* elder and musician rediscovered by the youth in the experimental contemporary music scene. The latest and ‘biggest budget’ Bruce LaBruce feature Saint-Narcisse in all its twinning glory, ultimately is a film about the bond of family. Australian filmmakers Thomas Wilson-White & Lizzie Cater’s new feature The Greenhouse – a magic-realist film asking what would you do, if you could go back in time, will make its Queensland premiere and the Teddy award winning feature from Faraz Shariat, German/Iranian story No Hard Feelings. Along with two Australian Premieres from the voices of future trans*/non-binary/queer storytelling, Lia Hietala & Hannah Reinikainen’s Always Amber and Olivia Peace’s Tahara, evoking the unique confines of contemporary youth by shooting in a tight 1:1 aspect ratio (Instagram). There’s a lot on. Head to the BQFF website for more.

Category: BRISBANE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE

Tags: bqff, Brisbane film festival, Brisbane gay, Brisbane Mardi Gras, Brisbane Queer Film Festival, Gay Brisbane guide

Gay Brisbane: what to do this Mardi Gras 2021

by James Banham

Posted: 20/02/2021

Go to WET DECK this 7 March for Mardi Gras gayness. Why? Because W Brisbane and ENN are making a splash at Mardi Gras weekend with an epic recovery pool party. Complete with drinks, hot bodies and sunshine, it’ll all be happening against the backdrop of phat beats from COLADA by DJ ENN that will be whipping out some seriously fun beats at Brisbane’s hottest pool bar. Go from 2-7pm on 7 March 2021 for only $45. Get your tickets here.

Category: BRISBANE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Brisbane Mardi Gras, Gay Brisbane what to do this Mardi Gras 2021, Mardi Gras 2021, Sydney Mardi Gras guide, Sydney Mardi Gras W Hotel Brisbane, W Hotel Brisbane guide, What to do Mardi Gras 2021

An experience with a difference – surviving the zombie apocalypse at Zero Latency

by Emi Berry

Updated: 15/12/2020

Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? Experiences are always fun but if you’re looking for something a little different from the standard cheese-making session, then look no further, because you probably haven’t experienced anything like Zero Latency. Zero Latency VR Sydney has just opened its doors and it’s the perfect time to gift your zombie-killing mates an experience they won’t forget. It’s a free-roam, virtual reality experience that takes place in a 200 square metre arena (about the size of a tennis court). There are no annoying cables or wires and you can play with up to groups of eight friends. After a thorough briefing from the friendly staff, you’ll then strap on your backpack, pop on your earphones, VR goggles, grab your gun, and then attempt to survive a reality TV show set in the zombie apocalypse in Undead Arena. If zombies aren’t your thing, your team can have a crack at escaping a stranded space station taken over by robots in Singularity. Both are guaranteed to elicit screams of excitement, fun, and fear! You’ll be drawn into a world where all that matters is survival – and it’s serious fun and a great way to escape the real world for a little while. As you roam the arena killing zombies or robots, you’ll be guided to elevators, moving platforms and spaces where enemy robots or zombies appear out of nowhere, so you’ll want to have a team that watches each other’s backs. More games will become available over time, including Far Cry VR which… Read More

Category: BRISBANE, MELBOURNE, PERTH, SYDNEY

Tags: experiences, virtual reality, zero latency, zombie apocalypse