Category: LIFESTYLE

Black Star Pastry Sydney and Good Times Milk Bar Melbourne join forces

Posted: 20/07/2021

In a mouth-watering collaboration, cake extraordinaire Black Star Pastry is teaming up with the one and only Good Times Milk Bar for a three-day pop up that will tempt every sweet tooth between Sydney and Melbourne. Black Star Pastry are a Sydney bakery, famous for their Instagram-renowned cake made of watermelon. This July, they’ll bring their cake down to Bentleigh in Melbourne to the Good Times Milk Bar from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 July. You can order in-store each day to snap up a slice or pre-order via the Good Times Milk Bar Hungry Hungry website, either the watermelon cake or any other creation, like: Strawberry Watermelon Cake (Single Serve $10, 4x $40, 6x $60, 10x $100) Raspberry Lychee Cake (Single Serve $10) Japanese Forest Cake (Single Serve $10) Chocolate Mirage Cake (Single Serve $10)

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: black star pastry, Black Star Pastry Sydney and Good Times Milk Bar Melbourne join forces, good times milk bar

Cocktails in lockdown: Dubliner whiskey

by James Banham

Posted: 20/07/2021

New look and same great ol’ taste, the Dubliner whiskey from the Irish heartland works well in cocktails and with lockdown upon Australia and nothing better to do, why not make some? Honeycomb Espresso Martini 60ml Dubliner Whiskey & Honeycomb Liqueur 30ml Espresso 15ml Mr Black Coffee Liqueur Shake all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker until chilled. Fine strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with honeycomb bark or coffee beans. The Dublin Mule 45ml Dubliner Whiskey & Honeycomb Liqueur 90ml Ginger Beer 10ml Fresh Lime JuiceGarnish with lime wedge Fill highball glass with fresh, chunky ice. Pour in Dubliner, fresh lime juice and top with ginger beer. Add lime wedges to garnish and stir. The Dab (Dubliner, Apple, Bitters) 35ml Dubliner Irish Whiskey 1 lime wedge 1 dash Angostura Bitters Top with apple juice Add the whiskey and apple juice to a rocks glass and fill with ice. Stir gently to mix. Squeeze the lime wedge and add to the drink.

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Cocktails in lockdown Dubliner whiskey

Book Club key to surviving the winter blues? Top tips for starting one

by THE F

Posted: 13/07/2021

– Lucy Pearson, Bibliotherapist and Scribd Ambassador It’s no secret that I have a love affair with reading. Beyond expanding my mind and helping me relax, one of the things I love most about a great read is discussing a text, whether that’s at the Bondi Literary Salon or with friends. Clearly I am not alone in this! Book clubs have seen a huge resurgence in the past few years, with everyone from Reese Witherspoon to Kaia Gerber starting their own book clubs. Attending a regular book club creates a sense of connection with others through a shared love of reading. Recently I’ve seen a lot of book clubs take up ebook subscriptions as a way to keep reading and maintain a human connection during this challenging time. I personally love Scribd, as it has a huge library of local and international content and shares personalised recommendations with me based on my tastes. For those feeling inspired to start your own book club, and want to be sure it lasts beyond the first cheese board – here are my my top five tips, from my favourite ebook service, to getting a great conversation flowing with discussion points. Happy reading! A compelling read A book club starts with a great read. Mix it up with fiction and non-fiction, local and international authors. Pick your selections from a diverse range of authors to step outside your comfort zone. This will keep your club engaged, and continually challenged. Share around the responsibility of selecting a title and think… Read More

Category: BOOKS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Book club, books, How to start a book club

Tips on the second-hand car inspection process and buying the right car for you

by THE F

Updated: 22/12/2023

Aussies’ love affair with second-hand cars has had a huge resurgence following the pandemic, but many still find the inspection process nerve-wracking and confusing. New research from mycar Tyre & Auto reveals nearly two-thirds (64%) of Australians are planning on buying a car in the next two years and, due to the financial constraints of the past year, over half (53%) are turning to second-hand options. When it comes to the purchasing process, Australians are feeling more overwhelmed than ever, with 83% of second-hand car buyers concerned the car will have a mechanical fault. To help prospective buyers along the way, mycar has developed the ‘Sense Check’ inspection guide, instructing Aussies on what to look for, feel for, listen out for and even what certain smells could indicate when buying second-hand. During the day, inspect the used cars in Georgetown SC panels to see that they are even and not painted, misaligned, damaged or rusty. Key tips include: For more tips on what to look out for when shopping for a second-hand car, visit the mycar ‘Sense Check’ inspection guide at www.mycar.com.au/sense-check or speak to a friendly technician at one of mycar’s 265+ stores.

Category: CARS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: How to buy a car, Second hand car

Picnic with the Queen: Buckingham Palace opens gardens to public

by James Banham

Posted: 11/07/2021

Buckingham Palace, official residence and mothership of the British Monarchy is trying something new. The Palace Gardens, the largest privately owned garden in London, is now ticketed and open to the public for picnics, walks and sun-soaked (if you’re lucky) enjoyment! Alcohol’s prohibited, but picnic baskets, blankets and nibbles can be brought – or purchased at the shop – as you while away a casual afternoon with friends and family. You will be free to wander around the garden’s winding paths at your own pace and experience the beauty and calm of this walled oasis in central London. Among the many features to enjoy are the 156-metre Herbaceous Border, the Horse Chestnut Avenue, the Plane trees planted by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, and the famous lake with its island that is home to the Buckingham Palace bees. There’s no dress code – other than comfort – and with the suggestion of sunscreen to keep it responsible, you’re welcome to while away the day amongst the grandeur of hundreds of years of British history. For more information and to book your slot, head to the Royal Collection Trust website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Best places to picnic London, Buckingham Palace garden, Picnic London, Picnic with the Queen: Buckingham Palace opens gardens to public

The biggest sporting events in Australia | Australian sporting events,

by THE F

Updated: 19/11/2022

For a country of under 30 million people, there are an incredible number of world-class sporting events each year in Australia. From the AFL Grand Final to the Boxing Day Test, this is your guide to the biggest sporting events in the country. 1. AFL Grand Final For many around Australia, and particularly those living in Melbourne, Grand Final Day is one of the biggest of the year – you only need to look at the fact that the Friday before it was recently made a public holiday for confirmation of its importance. The culmination of one of the most well-attended sports in the world and the most popular sport in the country, Grand Final Day sees around 100,000 passionate fans pack into the MCG, and many millions more tune into their TVs. Far from being just a sporting event, the day also begins with plenty of pre-game entertainment, and once the game finishes, the streets of Melbourne fill up like on virtually no other day of the year. 2. The Boxing Day Test There are a handful of sporting events on the calendar which rival the Grand Final for anticipation, and the Boxing Day Test is one of them – most notably the first day of it. This historic event is yet another for which close to 100,000 pack into the biggest stadium in Australia, but unlike on AFL Grand Final Day, this time they are treated to an entire day’s worth of elite sporting action. Around Australia, cricket is the sport of choice… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: The biggest sporting events in Australia

Lockdown in Sydney: where to get your takeaway

by James Banham

Posted: 03/07/2021

We might not be allowed to leave home for a bit, but never fear! Merivale’s long list of restaurants and venues are making good use of online orders and takeaway. Think Peking duck pancakes from Mr. Wong, wood-fired bread from Totti’s and The Paddington’s famous roast chicken. Check out the Merivale website. Mr. Wong: Menu here Swing by Mr Wong in the CBD to pick up a Cantonese feast of their specialty steam dim sum platter, honey glazed pork, king crab rice and Peking duck pancakes. Address and pick up hours here. Totti’s Bondi: Menu here No need to just dream of that famous Totti’s wood-fired bread and the pappardelle with lamb ragu. Order a feast online and pick-up it up with some pre-batched cocktails from The Bottle Shop while you’re at it. Address and pick up hours here. Jimmy’s Falafel: Menu here Enjoy a taste of the Middle-East from Jimmy’s Falafel, with a predominantly vegetarian takeaway menu with Sydney’s best falafel, flavour-packed pitas, delicious plates and moreish sides. Address and pick up hours here. Takeaway from store only, no online ordering. Ms G’s: Menu here Potts Point favourite, Ms G’s, will be keeping locals well fed with favourites including tom yum fried rice, soy-glazed chicken wings and those famous cheeseburger spring rolls. Address and pick up hours here. Coogee Pavilion: Menu here Coogee Pavilion’s extensive menu is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. With all the classics covered, parents and kids alike can take away from Vinnie’s Pizza, as well as burgers, pasta… Read More

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

How to eat and train like a professional rugby player

by THE F

Posted: 03/07/2021

Strength, agility, stamina, and power are few words that tend to float around in the ethos of Australian Rugby League. We’re in the midst of origin for 2021 and we’re seeing some of the greatest physical athletes at peak performance, putting on a show, so how exactly are they achieving such a sought-after physique? I’ll let you in on a few industry secrets. In a game of Rugby League muscle is essentially your armour. Out on the field it provides protection as much as it does help impact the opposing players. To get to such a stage, you have to workout in a particular way, one that’s going to stimulate growth in those major muscle groups. You really want a mix of compound weight movements and functional exercises that will prep you for movement required in each game. Here are my top five exercises to implement into your workout today: Deadlifts – Full body compound movement, improve the bodies posterior chain strength and power. Barbell squats – Great way to strengthen and gain power throughout your lower body and core. Standing medicine ball wall throws (side throws) – Great for overall core strength and power. Jammer press – My favorite exercise for rugby league it works the whole body. Landmine rotations – Another full body core exercise that will strengthen a variety of muscle groups required in rugby league. Onto the foodie side of things. Generally speaking, rugby players have large energy, fluid, and carbohydrate requirements, because of the level of exertion needed to both… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Diet, Eating properly, How to eat and train like a professional rugby player, How to eat properly, Rugby player diet

Working from home? This is what you can claim this tax time

by THE F

Updated: 01/07/2021

Just when you thought it was all over, parts of Australia are back under work from home orders with snap lockdowns. It’s obvious working from home is becoming more commonplace, so for tax purposes it’s important to know what you can claim for. You can deduct the running expenses of your home office.From the electricity you use for heating, cooling, and lighting to the depreciation of office furnishing, you can deduct the office related portions of these, providing you aren’t being reimbursed or compensated by your employer. How much can you claim?This depends on how the type of records you’ve kept throughout the year or how much time you want to spend calculating every last cent. There are three different methods you can use:– The actual cost– The shortcut method– The fixed rate method When you’re using your own personal phone and computer for work-related purposes, to claim the actual costs, you’ll need to figure out the percentage you use for personal use compared to office-related expenses. It can get quite complex to calculate the actual cost, so the ATO has introduced a special shortcut method for the period between 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2021. This allows you to claim 80 cents for each hour you worked from home. It may not give you the best tax refund, but it’s the easiest and fastest way to work it out. All you need is to keep a record of your hours working from home and a 4-week diary journaling your normal pattern of work… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: June 30 tax, Tax refund, Tax return, Tax return Australia, What can I claim at tax time, What to claim on tax return, Working from home This is what you can claim this tax time

Winter warmer wines to help you beat the cold this season

by THE F

Updated: 01/07/2021

When the chillier months roll around, enjoying a glass of wine is front of mind and synonymous with winter warmers. While a bottle of red is the most common go-to and a great match with many winter recipes, many richer white varieties can equally bring a warming delight on the dreariest of days. Whether you are indulging in Christmas in July festivities, a long overdue catch-up with your nearest and dearest, or a quiet night in the warmth of your own home, Brett Fullerton, Winemaker at Constellation Brands, has curated a list of top drops to add to your shopping basket this winter. YOUNG & CO THE JAM MCLAREN VALE SHIRAZ Boasting glorious flavour and attitude, this McLaren Vale Shiraz brings to life exactly what’s on the bottle. In this case, it’s the enticing flavour of blackberry and plum that sings across the palate for this wine. The Jam McLaren Vale Shiraz has lush flavours of blackberry and dark plum, accompanied by a playful hint of sweet oak and spice. It glistens in tones of deep ruby red and greets you with the scents of fruit mocha and spice. This wine is the perfect accompaniment to lamb shanks or a hearty vegetable stew. Available for $16 at Dan Murphy’s. KIM CRAWFORD NEW ZEALAND CHARDONNAY A perfect balance and full-bodied Chardonnay from both Marlborough and Hawke’s Day New Zealand, this is a succulent, well-rounded Chardonnay in a style uncluttered by oak. Hints of butterscotch and great length of flavour make it a delicious pairing with Camembert… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

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.