Category: GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Queer art after hours in Sydney

Updated: 23/02/2024

Get ready to mark your calendars because on Wednesday, February 28th, the crowd-favorite Queer Art After Hours event is set to make a vibrant return to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This year’s edition promises an exciting lineup that has just been unveiled, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! Renowned as one of the most eagerly anticipated annual events at the Art Gallery, Queer Art After Hours has continually stood out as a highlight among the free offerings of the Mardi Gras festival. It serves as a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, and storytellers, bringing the community together for a night of celebration that honors diversity, resilience, and creativity within the Queer community. In light of the recent cancellation of Fair Day, this year’s Queer Art After Hours aims to keep the party vibes alive with a spectacular FREE offering. Visitors can look forward to a kaleidoscope of interactive pop-up performances, installations, workshops, and DJ sets, all while embarking on their own unique art adventure exploring the exhibitions and collections on this unforgettable evening. The 2024 lineup is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a diverse range of experiences. From the thought-provoking video and spoken word installation “Queers as in Crip” to performances delving into butch and leather culture in “Dyke Vignettes,” the stage will come alive with fierce and fabulous drag performances by Miss First Nations queens Nova Gina, Josie Baker, and Shaniqua Empirè. Additionally, visitors can expect a captivating performance inspired by the occasional presence of pigeons in the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, GIVEAWAYS & WIN, LGBTIQ

Tags: gay sydney, LGBTIQA, mardi gras, Sydney art gallery

Introducing SA1NT Layers: A New Era in Sportswear

by THE F

Posted: 01/12/2023

Prepare to redefine your perception of sports apparel with the launch of the game-changing brand, SA1NT Layers. Developed with cutting-edge materials designed for the everyday athlete, this new brand hits the market with a bang, introducing an aspirational yet accessible sports line. Led by Aidan Clarke, the former owner of 2XU, SA1NT Layers forms the latest addition to the SA1NT family, after SA1NT Moto and SA1NT Works. SA1NT Layers is more than a brand; it’s an ethos. It’s for those who live on the edge, pushing their limits, and taking risks in pursuit of self-fulfilment. The debut collection features meticulously designed training and running sportswear for both men and women, catering to all stages of your fitness journey. Every detail of the collection has been considered. Exceptional moisture management and medical-grade sports compression? Check. Squat-proof tights and anti-pill training tops? Absolutely. The collection also includes a range of accessories, ensuring you have everything you need to push your boundaries. These garments aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re a result of rigorous research, utilising world-leading fabrics and science. Anna Espino, the brand’s New Product Development Manager, previously worked for 11 years at 2XU alongside Clarke. The team has worked tirelessly to create functional designs that help consumers reach new fitness heights. Clarke believes that compression is more than a trendy gimmick; it’s a proven technique for enhancing recovery. He refers to it as a “massage in a box,” highlighting its essential role in performance and recovery. The brand’s name, SA1NT Layers, holds a special meaning. The ‘1’… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Tags: 2xu, SA1NT, Saint gym wear

There’s a new Soda stream to get excited about + WIN one for Christmas

by THE F

Posted: 24/11/2023

Christmas is just around the corner, and the festive cheer is beginning to bubble over. Amidst the twinkling lights and merry jingles, finding the perfect gift can often feel like a daunting task. But fret not, for we have some fizz-tastic news that will make your holiday shopping a breeze! Our favourite sparkling water brand, SodaStream, has come up with an enchanting array of gifts that will delight everyone in the family. Whether you’re hunting for a unique present for that tricky-to-please relative, seeking budget-friendly options, or simply hoping to add a touch of sparkle to someone’s day, SodaStream has got you covered. And here comes the best part: To make your Christmas even more exciting, SodaStream is hosting an unmissable giveaway! Ready to unwrap the details? Let’s dive in! Introducing the Special Edition ART Sparkling Water Maker First up is the newly launched, special edition ART Sparkling Water Maker. This award-winning machine now flaunts fresh colourways — black marble, mandarin, and misty blue, adding to the classic black and white. It’s a true statement piece that will blend seamlessly into any kitchen decor. Plus, it features the first-ever in-built carbonation lever for a delightful retro twist. Priced at $169.00, this is a gift that promises to impress. Meet the E-Terra Sparkling Water Maker Next, we present the innovative E-Terra Sparkling Water Maker. Equipped with enhanced One-Touch technology, this machine lets you choose from three carbonation levels. But that’s not all! For the first time, SodaStream introduces LED lights that illuminate the water inside the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Tags: christmas giveaway, sodastream, win sodastream, Win sparkling drink maker

Tineco iCarpet Vacuum Cleaner: A Revolution in Deep Cleaning + WIN!

by THE F

Posted: 07/10/2023

Introducing the Tineco iCarpet vacuum cleaner, the game-changer in modern household cleaning. Its powerful suction and innovative features set it apart from traditional carpet cleaners, ensuring deep cleaning with no dirty water residue left behind. The iCarpet redefines convenience and efficiency, delivering a comprehensive cleaning solution for your carpets. Its HeatedWash Technology and PowerDry Technology dramatically reduce drying time — no more waiting for hours for your carpets to dry. Boasting an impressive 130 AW of suction power, the Tineco iCarpet tackles deeply embedded dirt and stains with ease. The innovative design recycles water with 80% efficiency, ensuring no dirty water residue taints your freshly cleaned floors. The Tineco iCarpet excels in carpet refreshment. Features like the PTC heater and a temperature controller on the brush head maintain water at an optimal 40°C (104°F), enabling hot water and solution mix to dissolve and remove stains faster, leaving your carpets looking refreshed after every wash. The ground-breaking PowerDry technology of iCarpet allows you to get back to your normal life in no time. After cleaning, just press a button to activate the DRY mode, which extracts residual water while blowing 75°C (167°F) air onto the carpet, expediting the drying process. Coupled with an additional hose and a stain-remover tool, the iCarpet ensures you can tackle stubborn stains and hard-to-reach areas with ease. Whether it’s upholstery, carpeted stairs, or other tricky spots, the iCarpet makes cleaning a breeze. Lightweight, quiet and easy to maintain, the Tineco iCarpet vacuum cleaner is your ultimate partner in maintaining a clean… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Crafting excellence: Liry’s Jewellery journey into art

by James Banham

Updated: 06/10/2023

Two years ago, an enthusiastic and determined Liry’s Jewellery embarked on a remarkable journey. Confident in their vision, they invested heavily in machinery and skilled jewellers to craft their own Cuban link chains right in their store. This was a significant milestone, validating their initial decision to offer these chains. Their popularity had soared, and this investment marked a proud moment that filled them with excitement for their future in the jewellery business. Liry’s love affair with gold, the material they prefer to work with, is steeped in personal history and practicality. They grew up with gold, appreciating its timeless beauty and value as an asset. Gold, they believe, is perhaps the only luxury item one can purchase, enjoy for years, and then resell at a price close to its original cost. In a world where many choose the path of least resistance, this company takes the road less traveled. They refuse to cut corners, prizing quality above all else. They source their chains and bracelets directly from Italy, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. Over the years, they have made multiple trips to Italy, meeting with manufacturers to ensure that they are sourcing the best. Liry’s Jewellery commitment to quality sets their jewellery apart. Their handmade Cuban link chains, crafted in-house, boast perfect karat purity. In fact, they often go above and beyond the required karat to provide their customers with the best value. They spent significant time and money finding the right Italian manufacturer, even when each “minimum” order typically costs around $10,000 or… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Tags: How to jewelry, How to wear men's jewellery, Liry's Jewellery, Liry's jewelry, Men's jewelry, Win jewellery

Thermos Guardian: The Reliable Companion for On-the-go Dads

by THE F

Updated: 01/09/2023

From the office to the great outdoors, Thermos Guardian provides an unbeatable solution for keeping your meals fresh and drinks at the perfect temperature. Perfect for the active father in your life, Thermos Guardian’s range of insulated food jars and tumblers are backed by the endorsements of professional travellers, The Blonde Nomads. Their decade-long experience of road-tripping across Australia stands as a testament to Thermos’ dedication to quality and durability. Since 1904, Thermos has been a reliable name in the industry, pioneering Vacuum Insulation Technology that ensures hot stays hot, and cold stays cold, for hours on end. Offering a sustainable alternative to disposable cups and takeaway containers, Thermos products are both environmentally friendly and stylishly designed. Take the Thermos Guardian Stainless Steel 530mL Travel Mug, for instance. Priced at $59.99, it is designed to keep your beverages hot for up to 5 hours or cold for up to 14 hours. Furthermore, with its cool-to-touch exterior for hot liquids and sweat-proof design for cold, it’s a perfect fit for most vehicle cup holders. The Thermos Guardian 530ml Stainless Steel Food Jar, retailing at $69.99, is another marvel. It keeps food hot for up to 9 hours or cold for up to 22 hours. This jar even includes a full-size foldable stainless steel spoon stored securely in the lid, making meal times a breeze whether you’re at the office or in the wilderness. For the father who loves a day out, the Thermos Stainless King 470ml Stainless Steel Coffee Mug and Trailsman Insulated Cooler are the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDES, GIFT GUIDE, GIVEAWAYS & WIN

Tags: Thermos, Thermos Guardian, Thermos insulated food jar, Thermos insulated tumbler

Discover Ultimate Comfort with EVERAU Men’s Cloud Slippers from Ugg Express

by THE F

Updated: 11/09/2023

Experience the epitome of comfort and style with the EVERAU Men’s Cloud Slippers, now available at Ugg Express. Crafted with premium quality materials, these slippers are designed for those who value comfort as much as style in their everyday wear. The Cloud Slippers are made with a plush sheepskin lining, offering an unparalleled level of warmth and cosiness. This natural insulation, coupled with a soft cushioning, provides a heavenly underfoot feel, making you feel like you’re walking on a cloud. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy Sunday or working from home, the Cloud Slippers are the perfect companion to your relaxation moments. One of the standout features of the EVERAU Men’s Cloud Slippers is the Suede upper, lending a touch of elegance to these comfortable shoes. The sturdy rubber sole enhances durability, promising long-lasting comfort. So, they’re not just comfy to wear, but also ready to stand the test of time. The EVERAU Men’s Cloud Slippers from Ugg Express ($35) are available for purchase online at uggexpress.co.uk. Invest in a pair today and experience the luxury of comfort and style. Once you slip into these, there’s no turning back. WIN a pair of your own EVERAU Men’s Cloud Slippers from Ugg Express Entries close 11.59pm AEDT, 1 September 2023. Ts & Cs. Loading…

Category: LIFESTYLE, GIVEAWAYS & WIN, RETAIL, STYLE

Tags: Australia UGG boots, UGG Boots, Ugg Express, Win UGGS

ARTS & CULTURE

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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

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More

Good news for National Gallery London: Eva Gonzalès piece acquired

22/04/2024

By James Banham

On the occasion of the artist’s 177th birthday on Friday 19th April, the National Gallery has acquired La Psyché (The Full-length Mirror), about 1869-70, by Eva Gonzalès (1849-1883) thanks to three generous legacy gifts from Mrs Martha Doris Bailey, Miss Gillian Cleaver, and Ms Sheila Mary Holmes, and the National Gallery Trust. This is the first acquisition by the Gallery of a work by Gonzalès and the second acquisition of its Bicentenary year. La Psyché has not been seen in public for over seventy years and joins only one other painting by her in a UK public collection, The Donkey Ride, about 1880?2, at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Gonzalès is the 20th female artist represented in the National Gallery Collection, marking a significant addition. The story of Gonzalès’s reputation, during and after her life, reflects some of the reasons why women artists are not well represented in the National Gallery. These include being offered fewer opportunities in life and the lack of interest shown, consciously or not, in works by women artists by collectors of the era and onwards, from whose acquisitions the National Gallery’s own collection was assembled. During her lifetime Gonzalès was an established artist who exhibited multiple times to acclaim at the official Paris Salon. She was the only official pupil of Edouard Manet (1832-83), with whom she studied from 1869. Gonzalès likely painted La Psyché around the same time that Manet was painting his portrait of her, Eva Gonzalès (1870). That work, in the Gallery collection, was the focal point of the recent exhibition, Discover Manet & Eva… Read More

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Shooshfest: Australia’s first ever silent short film competition

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s Shooshfest, an inaugural silent short film competition, invites diverse creators to innovate in storytelling sans speech. Promising an immersive experience, it will connect with audiences, honour silent film and catalyse cinematic culture.