Category: CITIES

Embracing the Future: Extraordinary Luxury Meets Innovation at LANDMARK by Lexus

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As the confluence of Japanese and Australian landscapes and sensibilities merge, the much-anticipated LANDMARK by Lexus returns to the famed Flemington Racecourse in 2023. This exclusive pavilion, characterised by its sophisticated and elegant design, offers not just the best view of the Flemington Racecourse front straight, but also an array of culinary delights, entertainment, and the warm hospitality synonymous with the Japanese tradition of omotenashi. In its sixth year as the Principal Partner of the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), Lexus Australia continues its proud tradition of offering unique experiences, showcasing the melding of opulence and elegance with sustainability and organic production. This year, LANDMARK by Lexus pays tribute to Takumi craftsmanship, under the theme ‘Close to the Source’, celebrating the beauty and rarity of natural materials and genuine ingredients. Koichi Takada Architects have exclusively designed the LANDMARK by Lexus exterior, making a grand statement with the pavilion’s awnings fusing Japanese and Australian landscapes. The structure naturally integrates the best of both vistas, with the terraced awnings echoing the curvature of rice fields and softening the angular lines of the base building. Upon entering, guests of LANDMARK by Lexus are greeted by the Lexus Electrified Sport, a stunning futuristic sports car making its Australian debut. It perfectly embodies modern luxury, with pure materials crafted into works of art, set against striking floral arrangements. Inside, the pavilion consists of three distinct levels, each showcasing a synergy of sustainability and exceptional design. Australian restaurateur, Luke Mangan, is the culinary maestro behind the Lexus x Luke Mangan dining experience,… Read More

BACARDÍ Teams Up with Northeast Party House for a Summer Dance Party

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Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night of music, dance, and fun as BACARDÍ, the world’s most-awarded rum brand, is hosting BACARDÍ Dance Floor, a one-night-only gig on Friday, 27 October. In partnership with indie dance act Northeast Party House, BACARDÍ aims to turn Sydney’s Cell Block Theatre at the National Art School into the ultimate dance floor. Northeast Party House, renowned for their infectious beats and unique upbeat tracks, will be returning to their party roots to headline the event. Fans can look forward to an exhilarating mix of dance floor anthems, live within the 10-metre-high sandstone walls of Sydney’s former Darlinghurst Gaol. Lead vocalist, Zachary Hamilton-Reeves expressed their excitement, stating, “We have a deep party philosophy. We are stoked to be headlining BACARDÍ Dance Floor, spreading good vibes through our music and getting the crowd moving for the summer season ahead.” Supporting acts include Trinidadian artist Gold Fang and Sydney’s own DJ, Carolina Gasolina. Gold Fang is known for bringing the contagious rhythm of Caribbean music to Australian shores, while Carolina Gasolina will keep the vibes high throughout the night with her feel-good tracks, blending Reggaeton, Baile, Funk, Hip-Hop and Afrobeat. From the earliest days, BACARDÍ has been renowned for hosting legendary parties. At BACARDÍ Dance Floor, guests can expect all the best flavours to get the party started. With a limited number of tickets available from Tuesday, 3 October, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience. All profits from the gig will be donated to Support Act, a charity that delivers… Read More

Best Sydney cakes: celebrate Sydney opera House’s birthday

Sydney Opera House cake

From the heart of France, known globally for its patisserie wonders, a culinary maestro named Vincent Gadan made his mark on the world. A tale of passion, perfection, and unparalleled craftsmanship, his 35-year culinary journey started in France, where he bagged major culinary prizes and admiration. His skilful handling of the intricacies of pastry-making while working in prestigious Michelin-starred and hatted restaurants quickly established him as the crème de la crème in the realm of pastry. In 1993, a new chapter beckoned in Vincent’s illustrious career. Driven by an insatiable desire to further his craft and explore new horizons, he ventured to Australia, an arrival that proved to be a boon to the Australian gastronomic scene. His presence, felt in iconic establishments such as Bennelong at the Opera House and Pâtisse, raised the bar for pastries, setting a new gold standard. The Australian media were quick to broadcast Chef Vincent’s impeccable skills nationwide, with appearances on hit shows like Masterchef Australia, Sunrise Channel 7, Mornings with Kerry Anne, ‘Fresh’ Channel 9, and French Food Safari on SBS. His culinary wisdom also found its way to the bookshelves, with a range of well-received cookbooks that have become a staple for budding chefs and dessert enthusiasts. Today, the magic continues at Bottega Coco, where Vincent’s pastries take centre stage amongst a myriad of culinary delights. As the Head Pastry Chef, Vincent brings his illustrious legacy to the table, including the mastery he exhibited as the former Head Pastry Chef at Bistro Moncur and the genius behind Rami… Read More

Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers Exhibition Coming to the National Gallery in Autumn 2024

Van Gogh Starry Night

Get ready for an extraordinary art experience as the National Gallery celebrates its 200th anniversary with a major exhibition dedicated to the brilliant works of Vincent Van Gogh. “Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers” will take center stage in Autumn 2024, marking the centenary of the Gallery’s acquisition of two of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings, Sunflowers and Van Gogh’s Chair. This eagerly anticipated exhibition will be the first of its kind, focusing on Van Gogh’s imaginative transformations. With over 50 works and loans from museums and private collections worldwide, including iconic pieces from the Kröller Müller Museum in the Netherlands, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, and the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the artist’s creative process and his sources of inspiration. One of the exhibition’s primary focuses will be Van Gogh’s time in Arles and Saint-Rémy in the South of France from 1888 to 1890. Here, the artist masterfully transformed the places he encountered into idealized spaces in his art, creating a deeply resonant and poetic framework for his oeuvre. The exhibition will unveil how portraits played a vital role in Van Gogh’s artistic universe, assigning symbolic meaning to his models, such as the Poet and Lover. “Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers” will reveal the evolution of the poetical imagination and the ideas associated with love as central themes in Van Gogh’s work. In Arles, for instance, Van Gogh envisioned the public park in front of the Yellow House, where he rented four rooms, as a Poets’… Read More

MAMMA MIA hits Melbourne: spectacular celebration of love, laughter and friendship

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The global musical phenomenon, MAMMA MIA! The Musical, has taken its final bow on the Australian tour, leaving an indelible mark on audiences with its vibrant energy, infectious tunes, and heartwarming narrative. The iconic ABBA hit songs had audiences dancing in the aisles from Sydney to Brisbane, and now, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre has been painted with the same vivacious colours of joy and nostalgia. Elise McCann, donning the platforms as the Dynamos lead singer, Donna Sheridan, delivers a captivating performance that leaves audiences spellbound. McCann’s theatre career shines brightly in her portrayal, cementing her status as one of Australia’s finest stage talents. Emerging Australian actor Sarah Krndija steps into the shoes of Donna’s daughter and bride-to-be, Sophie. With her recent roles in 9 to 5 The Musical and Friends The Musical Parody, Krndija brings a fresh and exciting perspective to the role. The dynamite duo of Bianca Bruce and Deone Zanotto complete the Dynamo trio, providing the perfect counterbalance to McCann’s Donna. Their camaraderie is palpable, and their performances are filled with vivacity and charm. Martin Crewes, Drew Livingston, and Tim Wright bring to life the three unsuspecting fathers with aplomb, each contributing their unique flair to the whimsical story. Lewis Francis, as Sophie’s adoring fiancé Sky, showcases his talent with a tender and engaging performance. Newcomers Nina Carmen and Kadesa Honeyhill, along with Jordan Tomljenovic and Etuate Lutui, add an extra layer of verve to the ensemble. The supporting cast, too numerous to name individually, all contribute to the overall success of the show… Read More

SailGP Sydney 2024: An unforgettable weekend of high-speed racing and premium gospitality

Sydney hobart yacht

Get ready to be swept away by the exhilarating spectacle of SailGP, the world’s most thrilling race on-water. Returning to the stunning Sydney Harbour for a record fifth time, the event promises a weekend of heart-stopping racing and premium hospitality on the 24th and 25th of February, 2024. As the eighth stop on the thirteen-event global championship, Sydney will join the ranks of iconic cities such as San Francisco, New York, Auckland, and Los Angeles in hosting this prestigious event. Ten nations will go head-to-head in a battle of skill and strategy, set against one of the world’s most beautiful backdrops. But the excitement isn’t limited to the water. The event offers a variety of ticketing options, allowing fans to choose from a range of on-water and on-land experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned sailing enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, there’s something for everyone at SailGP Sydney 2024. Among the fan experiences on offer are: Last season, thousands of fans immersed themselves in the heart-pounding excitement on Sydney Harbour, watching the technologically-advanced 50-foot hydrofoiling catamarans fly over the water at breathtaking speeds of up to 100km/h. This season, following the Aussie team’s three-peat victory in SailGP Season 3, even more spectators from across Australia and internationally are anticipated to support Tom Slingsby’s green and gold team as they compete against nine rival nations to maintain their position at the top of the Season 4 leaderboard. “There’s no better feeling than a home event, and the spectators in Sydney always turn up in their thousands… Read More

Vibrancy of South America at Melbourne’s Afloat Viva Mexico

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Melbourne’s beloved floating bar and restaurant, Afloat, has undergone an exciting transformation, unveiling a vibrant new theme that is set to immerse guests in the rich and colourful culture of Mexico. Afloat Viva Mexico is a celebration that reflects the vivacious spirit of Mexico City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, and the tropical jungle-meets-beach paradise of Tulum. The new theme permeates the entire venue, influencing everything from the interiors and branding to the food, drinks, special events, and entertainment. According to Creative Director Georgie Larkins, “Afloat Viva Mexico is set to be our brightest and most ambitious season yet.” She continues, “It wouldn’t be possible without the contribution of hundreds of creatives, suppliers, trades, and hospitality experts from near and far. We’re so excited to celebrate Mexico’s rich culture with the wider community.” Executive Chef James Gibson has crafted a menu that’s rooted in authentic Mexican flavours and style, blending seasonal local produce with unique ingredients sourced from both Australia and Mexico. The menu is designed to cater to all types of gatherings and features an array of Seafood Platters & Raw Bites, Platos Pequeños (Small Plates), Tacos, Tortas and Platos Grandes (Large Plates). Notably, the Afloat’s signature wood-fired pizzas return with a Mexican spin. The new theme extends to the drinks menu as well, with Cocktail Director Tom Younger crafting a spirited list that features mezcal and tequila-based drinks. Margaritas of all tastes and flavours reign supreme, accompanied by Afloat’s beach club and party-in-the-sun classic cocktails. The new Afloat Viva Mexico also boasts an entirely new look…. Read More

Sydney Place: the new culinary capital of Australia

Eat Fuh Vegan Pho

Unveiling the latest gem in Sydney’s crown, Sydney Place, located in the heart of the beloved waterfront destination, Circular Quay. Housing 15 exceptional food and beverage operators, this vibrant new precinct is set to redefine the city’s gastronomic landscape. The offerings range from award-winning dining establishments helmed by the country’s top chefs to laid-back hangouts serving up comfort food. Discover the culinary delights tucked away in the intimate laneways of Sydney Place. Establishments like Federico Zanellato’s Lumi Dining and David Bae’s Leemiks bring a gastronomic flair to the precinct. Joining them are local favourites like Toby’s Estate, C9 Gelato, Dopa, and Open Sesame Middle Eastern, providing a diverse array of gastronomic experiences. Mark your calendars for the opening of BoBo Dumplings and Joel Best’s Japanese-inspired restaurant and whiskey bar in May. The transformation will be completed later this year with the much-anticipated reopening of multi-level Jacksons on George by Maurice Terzini and DTLE. The precinct’s layout invites exploration with its intimate laneways, each hosting a collection of dining options that will tempt visitors to experience the rich tapestry of Sydney Place at any time of day. The precinct is divided into several unique sections: Not just a food lover’s paradise, Sydney Place is also an architectural marvel. Home to a 55-storey landmark office tower, it’s the tallest office building in Sydney. Designed by global architecture giant, Foster + Partners, and developed by Lendlease, the precinct integrates work, dining, and retail experience seamlessly. “At ground level, the precinct includes retail and intimate laneways, all designed to… Read More

Melbourne coffee lovers in for a futuristic treat

Coffee machine cafe

Melbourne, hold onto your coffee cups! As the world prepares to celebrate International Coffee Day on October 1, plant-based pioneers, Minor Figures, and specialty coffee roasters, Coffee Supreme, have something exceptional brewing. This trailblazing partnership is set to redefine your coffee experience, taking you on a journey a hundred years into the future. For one tantalising week, the Coffee Supreme café in Abbotsford will turn into a time machine of taste, offering an avant-garde glimpse into our coffee-drinking future. This venture is part of Minor Figures’ global campaign, offering FREE coffees to the first 100 eager time-travellers through its doors. Minor Figures’ Co-Founder, Jonathan Chiu, envisions a future worth saving. As a company, they believe success in innovation lies in solving problems from our customers’ perspective. This collaboration with Coffee Supreme is an exploration of the future of coffee consumption, a creative energy experiment aimed at imagining how we could be making, drinking, and loving coffee in 100+ years. Coffee Supreme’s response to this intriguing question is an off-world interpretation that holds true to their unique vision and deep desire to preserve the mindful moment that coffee brings to our daily lives, regardless of which planet we find ourselves on. The result? An immersive and multi-layered beverage that invites you to savour the moment. This futuristic coffee, only available at the Coffee Supreme Abbotsford Café, is served in a whisky glass over ice and features three distinct layers, each representing earth, water, and clouds. The bottom layer combines a rich Colombian espresso concentrate and tonic… Read More

Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb offers a treat for new climbers

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Get ready to amp up your 8th birthday festivities as BridgeClimb invites all young thrill-seekers celebrating their 8th birthday in October to partake in a FREE climb of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. This extraordinary offer comes as part of BridgeClimb’s 25th-anniversary celebrations and promises an exhilarating experience you won’t forget. Turning eight has never been more exciting! With eight being the minimum age for this high-flying adventure, the opportunity to scale the renowned ‘Coathanger’ makes for the perfect birthday gift and a truly unique celebration setting. This incredible offer applies to all Day Climb BridgeClimb products. To be eligible, children must meet the minimum height requirement of 120cm and be accompanied by a full-paying adult. Confirming your participation is as easy as presenting proof of age during check-in, such as a birth certificate or passport. Worried about missing out because your 8th birthday isn’t in October? Fear not! Throughout the NSW spring school holidays, children between 8-15 years can ascend the arches of the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge and immerse themselves in its intriguing history for a mere $99 — a savings of up to 48%. And let’s not forget the adults! If you reside within the Greater Sydney postcode area, BridgeClimb is offering a $100 BridgeClimb Prepaid Digital Mastercard per person for those who undertake the Harbour Bridge climb during the day before the end of September 2023. And if you embark on this awe-inspiring journey between October 2023 and January 2024, you’ll receive a handsome reward of $50 per person. So, don’t… Read More