Category: FEATURES

The gayest roast you’ll eat this Mardi Gras

Updated: 16/11/2022

Believe it, or not; this isn’t a euphemism. This annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras we’ll celebrate it all with The Roast, subverting the traditional Sunday family meal, with an afternoon celebration of queer food, drink, comedy and theatre from The University of Sydney’s The Refectory with your chosen crew. Happening at the Refectory in Camperdown, the Roast include a four-course banquet curated by award-winning chef, Anna Polyviou, post-Mardi Gras cocktails from Absolut, and the talents of Sydney-based Mangarai First Nations queen Tyra Bankstown and QTBIPOC collective House of Silky. Meanwhile, music will be handled by Paul Mac and Johnny Seymour of Stereogamous,Timothy & The Heart Strings and hosted by Sharon Manhatten. Limited tickets for the event on 76 March are available now via Humanitix. All ticket sales go to supporting ACON, Australia’s largest HIV and sexuality and gender diverse health organisation.

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: mardi gras, sydney mardi gras, The gayest roast you'll eat this Mardi Gras, the Roast

Sydney’s Night Noodle Markets are back!

Melbourne Night Noodle Markets Chinese dragon

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

In a brand new location and after having had a two year break, there’s great news for Sydney: the annual Night Noodle Markets are back with a vengeance. Depriving a city of noodley and Asian-inspired foodstuffs is – like so many other things – one of the side effects of the past year, but no more! From 22 – 27 March 2022 at Prince Alfred Park, right near Central Station, the Night Noodle Markets will being a spread of some of the city’s and country’s finest Asian food providores in an explosion of dragon-fuelled excitement and buzz made all the sweeter by the simple fact: it’s back. Each evening, the popular park will be transformed into a vibrant, open-air Asian street food festival, with live entertainment and hawker-style stalls and pop-ups serving up their most sumptuous dishes, drinks and bites. From steaming hot dumplings to melt-in-your-mouth bao and Insta-worthy desserts, Sydneysiders and visitors will have the chance to feast on an array of sizzling, sweet and spicy meals and morsels from an exciting mix of popular local, national and interstate eateries. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options will also be plentiful. For more info and to get your tickets, head to the Sydney Night Noodle Markets website

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Sydney Night Noodle Markets, sydney noodle market, Sydney's Night Noodle Markets are back

Celebrate International Women’s Day in Sydney with this one-off event to #breakthebias

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Those looking for an inspirational celebration of female empowerment this International Women’s Day should look no further than Legacy in the Park International Women’s Day. Hosted at the historic and picturesque ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney on the 8th of March, you’ll mingle with some of Australia’s most inspiring women over complimentary beer, wine and champagne and canapes to celebrate the achievements of the incredible women within the Australian Defence Force and look to #breakthebias. Sydney Legacy’s special event will also feature Defence Ambassador for the Australian Capital Territory, Brigadier Alison Creagh AM CSC (Ret’d), as the keynote speaker. Alison retired from the Australian Army in March 2015, following 30 years of dedicated service, and now focuses on supporting veterans, defence industry and promoting cybersecurity through a number of board positions. Alison will be sharing her incredible personal and professional stories as well as hosting a Q&A session. Much of her work is similar to the wonderful work Sydney Legacy does to support families of Australian service women and men. Sydney Legacy was formed in 1926 and has for more than 90 years, ‘kept the promise’ to care for our veteran’s families. Offering support in the form of income support, school-aged education support, as well as a community for the families of our veterans. Proceeds from the Legacy in the Park International Women’s Day event will go towards funding this continued support. When: 8th March 2022, 4pm-6pm Dress code: Business casual Tickets are $45 (+booking fees) and are available via the Legacy website

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Celebrate International Women's Day in Sydney with this one-off event to #breakthebias, International Women's Day Sydney, IWD

Otello opera in Sydney – on stage this February

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

With two international stars on stage for the whole run of Otello by Opera Australia, there’s more than enough reason to head to the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House. But, what’s it about? Distilled from Shakespeare’s masterpiece, Otello is an intense chamber-like opera that explores all the problems of the world, concentrated in the lives of the three main characters: Otello, Desdemona and Iago, three of Verdi’s most demanding roles, both vocally and dramatically. These roles will be incredibly performed by OA favourites Yonghoon Lee, Karah Son all conducted by Andrea Battistoni. Together, Lee – who’s known for his performance in the 2019 production of Turandot and Son who reprised the role of the Madama in Madam Butterfly in 2019 – will bring the house down, showcasing their incredible talent, professional poise and let’s not forget, Lee’s innate ability to make weak the knees with his renowned abilities. Have a watch of his performance in Tosca by OA in 2012. Whether you’re new to opera or as ingrained as the Sydney Opera House itself, Lee and Son are two favourites that make a visit to the Joan Sutherland Theatre that much more worth it. Otello will be on at the Sydney Opera House from 19 February to 19 March 2022. For information, times and tickets, head to the Opera Australia website.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, OPERA

Tags: opera, Otello, Otello opera in Sydney on stage this February, Otello Opera Sydney, sydney opera house

Love trading but hate brokerage? Sign up to Stake

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Stake makes investing simple, fun, interesting, worthwhile… Whatever other superlatives you can come up with. But aside from all that, they’ve done some sensational stuff in the accessibility of investing – for short or long term – by putting full access to the ASX and NYSE in your hands from anywhere in the world. And if that’s not enough, by offering insider access to news and research in the form of their paid subscription, Stake Black, the platform is turning around what it means to be financially savvy and plan for the future. In their latest movement, Stake’s offering Australian investors and those with an interest in the ASX, access again to free brokerage with a clever referral system. Simply encourage three more users to sign up and make a trade and you’ll knock off a dollar for each from every transaction. Previously considered impossible and getting to $0 brokerage on the ASX has been achieved thanks to a unique ‘three to free’ referral method, allowing customers to refer friends in exchange for discounted brokerage, with the opportunity to continue free brokerage indefinitely. For each person a customer refers, their brokerage drops by $1 for 1 year. That means just three referrals can get you to $0. Plus, referrals beyond the third are banked and kick-in once another has expired. So, customers can keep their fee-free ASX trading rolling. For more about Stake and to sign up, use this link

Category: FEATURES, FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE

Tags: finance, Finance blog, Finance guide, Hello Stake, Investing guide, Love trading but hate brokerage Sign up to Stake, Stake, Stake trading

Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms are open this July – October 2022: get tickets now

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

In the 70th year of Her Majesty’s reign, if ever there was a time to throw some money at the Royal Collection and celebrate the longest-running reign of any British Monarch ever, it’s now. And though most of the Palace isn’t accessible to the public – because it’s the HQ of the Monarchy and residence of Her Majesty herself – amongst other reasons, the opportunity to visit the sumptuous State Rooms in Buckingham Palace is returned after its Covid hiatus. It’s quite an experience – which you can read more about here – taking a trip back in time through the halls and rooms, frequented by countless Monarchs, world leaders and special visitors to the Queen. With such standouts as the gigantic malachite urn presented to Queen Victoria by Tsar Nicholas I in 1839 – renowned as one of the largest examples outside Russia – and architectural marvel you don’t see every day, the State Rooms are must-see stops in the Palace for British and visitors alike. The year 2022 is an especially standout year for the Palace, for obvious reasons and so, the public exhibition will take a particularly close look at the special display Platinum Jubilee: The Queen’s Accession looking at The Queen’s Accession to the throne in February 1952. On display will be examples from the remarkable series of portraits taken by Dorothy Wilding, that formed the basis of The Queen’s image on stamps and in British embassies across the world until 1971. Also featured will be The Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, which… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, TRAVEL

Tags: Buckingham Palace State Rooms, Buckingham Palace's State Rooms are open this July October get tickets now, Queen's State Rooms, State Rooms Buckingham Palace, State Rooms London, Visit Buckingham Palace

Melbourne cafe: Repeat Offender in Elwood back with a bang

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Elwood in Melbourne is idyllic. Popular, but chill; quiet ,but bustling; friendly, but cool. Which is exactly why Elwood local, Repeat Offender is back with a bang this summer. With a whole new menu and a brand new look to the venue, Repeat Offender’s bringing back all the joy that existed in the local area before being forced to shut down for nine months thanks to the pandemic. Running at full capacity and delivering its most flavoursome menu to date – which also happens to be 100% gluten-free – it’s the new cafe to visit for quality plates of truffle tacos, chorizo croquettes and jackfruit fritas. And much more. Oh and for those who are in the mood for a little more adult beverages choices; two words: there’s margaritas. Think: nine unique flavours to sip on including coconut, spicy and grapefruit to take the edge off a long week. Or put the edge on the next one to come. To make a booking, see more of the menu or just check out what’s in-store, head to the Repeat Offender website

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: Elwood Melbourne cafe, Elwood Repeat Offender cafe, Melbourne cafe Repeat Offender in Elwood back with a bang, Repeat Offender cafe

What to buy and where to eat this Valentine’s Day 2022

Pumphouse Sydney restaurant dining room balcony

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

The day of love is fast approaching, so you need to sort out what you’re eating and where basically yesterday. Don’t even get us started on the gifts! We rounded-up some favourites from around Sydney, Melbourne and some favourite retailers to make your choosing easier, so scroll on for some ideas on where to eat and what to buy this Valentine’s Day 2022. Google Pixel 6 mobile phone If you’re an android person, then this is the ultimate phone that’ll make your life worth living. The first phone with a Google chip, all Google parts and some – as always – external colour action to keep your day exciting, the phone’s one of Google’s most personal and helpful phones. With the most advanced cameras seen on a Pixel, you can capture every special memory with your other half in high quality and vivid colours, and they’ll only ever be a phone call away. Get it from $999 form Google Google Pixel buds The perfect gift for anyone with a busy or on-the-go lifestyle, Google’s Pixel Buds A-Series offer rich sound quality, clear calls and hands-free helpfulness all in a low-profile aesthetic. Designed for a snug and secure fit, they are comfortable enough for those long listening sessions or while your partner works out. Get them for $159 Pumphouse Sydney They’ve curated a delicious set menu for guests to enjoy on February 14th for $180 per couple. You will be welcomed with a special Valentine’s Day cocktail on arrival before being guided upstairs to the stunning, open terrace overlooking Darling… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, GIFT GUIDE, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

Tags: valentine's day, valentine's day guide, What to buy and where to eat this Valentine's Day 2022, what to buy valentines day

Share your Sydney Harbour Bridge story and celebrate its 90th birthday

Sydney Harbour Bridge complete whole ferry

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

The world renowned Sydney Harbour Bridge is turning 90 on 19 March 2022 and it’s time to celebrate. BridgeClimb Sydney – the company that operates and cares for the monument – is throwing open the doors to celebrate and wants to hear your untold stories of the bridge through it’s iconic life since 1932. Whether you or someone you know worked on the construction or maintenance of the Bridge, own a unique piece of Bridge memorabilia, or hold a special memory involving the Bridge, all submissions are welcome and can be submitted at their dedicated website. Nicknamed ‘the Coathanger’ because of its arched design, the 1,149m-long, 48.8m-wide structure is the world’s tallest steel arch bridge – measuring 134m from the top to the water below. It’s also the sixth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world. Get involved and help celebrate the milestone of one of our country’s most famous, beloved and practical icons! For more, head to the BridgeClimb website

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Harbour bridge, Share your Sydney Harbour Bridge story and celebrate its 90th birthday, sydney harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Opera: this January Turandot returns to Joan Sutherland

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

The last time Turandot was such a spectacle, it was the title performance of Handa’s Opera on Sydney Harbour and made for a light, sound and experiential spectacular that had to be experienced. Fast forward to 2022 and it’s taking over the Joan Sutherland Theatre in the Sydney Opera House, offering audiences members the moment, again, to hold their breath as Yonghoon Lee – an OA favourite – hits that famous Vincero note (I will will) at the end of Nessun Dorma (No one will sleep). It’s an especially exciting way to kick of the new year of music after almost two years of music deprivation around the world thanks to the pandemic. We’re aching for the angelic voices of Yonghoon Lee (Calaf), Karah Son and Mariana Hong (Liu) and a spread of other renowned Opera Australia talent. Not to mention, as OA Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini is pleased to announce that rising star Australian sopranoAnna-Louise Cole will share the title role. “Anna-Louise has been a member of our Young ArtistProgram and is ready to tackle these big roles. It is really exciting that she will make her role debutas Turandot so audiences in Sydney can hear what her voice can really do. What’s Turandot about? A fantasy opera of poetry and myth, Turandot transports audiences to an exotic world where fearand love go hand in hand. Viewers will be on the edge of their seats as suitors answer riddles atthe risk of death in an attempt to win the hand of the ice princess… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, OPERA, SYDNEY

Tags: sydney opera, sydney opera house, Sydney Opera this January Turandot returns to Joan Sutherland, turandot, Turandot Sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

Sydney Film Festival’s World Premier of Midnight Oil

28/04/2024

By James Banham

The 71st Sydney Film Festival is set to kick off with a bang as it proudly presents the World Premiere of Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line at its Opening Night Gala on Wednesday, June 5, at the prestigious State Theatre. Following the screening, a vibrant post-screening celebration will light up the Sydney Town Hall, marking a milestone event in the festival’s history. The Hardest Line unravels the pioneering narrative of Midnight Oil like never before on the silver screen. Defiant. Passionate. Vocal. Over their illustrious 45-year journey, ‘The Oils’ have left an indelible mark on modern Australia with anthems such as US Forces, Beds Are Burning, Blue Sky Mine, and Redneck Wonderland. This groundbreaking documentary features exclusive interviews with every band member, unseen live performances and studio footage, and iconic moments like the outback tour with Warumpi Band, the Exxon protest gig in New York, and the unforgettable “Sorry” suits at the Sydney Olympics, encapsulating the extraordinary odyssey of Australia’s quintessential rock ensemble. Sydney Film Festival Director Nashen Moodley expressed his excitement, stating, “We are delighted to feature Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line as our opening film this year. This documentary not only charts the remarkable journey of one of Australia’s most influential bands but also encapsulates the ethos of an era that reshaped our cultural and political landscapes. It is a tribute to their enduring legacy and a poignant reflection on their enduring influence that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.” Writer, director, and executive producer Paul Clarke shared his sentiments, “There exists no… Read More

British Museum and Huw Locke explore legacies of Empire

28/04/2024

By James Banham

The British Museum has embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with the esteemed Guyanese-British artist, Hew Locke, for a significant new exhibition delving into how the Museum’s collection reflects the enduring legacies of British imperial power from centuries past to the present day. This innovative exhibition, co-curated by Locke, will showcase iconic objects from the Museum’s vast collection alongside specially commissioned new works by the artist himself. Throughout his illustrious career, Locke has demonstrated a profound interest in objects and the narratives they harbor. His connection to the British Museum collection dates back to his formative years as a student in London, where he frequented the Museum of Mankind to draw inspiration from its ethnographic collections. This forthcoming exhibition marks a milestone as Locke’s first venture into artist-curated museum exhibitions, offering him a unique opportunity to delve deeply into a museum collection unlike ever before. The rich history and holdings of the British Museum intertwine closely with the narrative of the British Empire. This exhibition is poised to dissect these intertwined histories while engaging with the contemporary debates swirling around cultural heritage. By focusing on Britain’s historical interactions with Africa, India, and the Caribbean—regions that significantly influenced Guyana, Locke’s place of upbringing—the exhibition will serve as a personal exploration by utilizing interventionist techniques to reframe historical objects within the collection. Locke’s exploration aims to unravel the intricate ways in which museums are entangled in the legacies of Empire, embracing the complexities and ambiguities of these narratives. Rather than providing definitive answers, Locke seeks to provoke introspection… Read More

Michelangelo last decades exhibition at British Museum this spring

28/04/2024

By James Banham

Delving deep into the intricate tapestry of the Renaissance master’s late career, this immersive showcase promises a revelatory exploration of how art and faith intertwined in the twilight years of an iconic artist.

breakdance head spin pexels pixabay 159273

Experience break dancing like never before this MAy

24/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture, innovation, and artistry at Breakin’ Convention 2024. An international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre, it’ll be taking over Sadler’s Wells in Islington this coming May Bank Holiday. Enthusiastically helmed by the visionary UK hip hop maker and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D, this festival has become a beacon for fans and creators of hip hop from around the globe. The excitement is palpable as we gear up for two days packed with jaw-dropping performances, interactive workshops, and live music that promise to electrify the Sadler’s Wells venues on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May. With an extraordinary lineup featuring international sensations like Femme Fatale (USA), Sons of Wind (France), and Jinjo crew (South Korea), alongside groundbreaking UK acts such as TRAPLORD, Boy Blue, and When Time Was New, this festival is set to showcase the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop dance theatre. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a vast array of activities including spectacular dance performances, bespoke graffiti workshops, freestyle sessions, and even live DJs sessions that guarantee to keep the energy high and the spirit of hip hop alive throughout the entire building. Not to mention, the festival coincides with the historic moment of breaking becoming an official Olympic sport at the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to the festivities. Beyond the performances, Breakin’ Convention 2024 invites audiences to engage directly with the hip hop community through unique events such as the Tiny… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

24/04/2024

By James Banham

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More