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 All eyes on the Melbourne Cricket Ground |
Brunton Avenue (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Jolimont) Melbourne, VIC 3001 Australia +61 3 9643 1999 http://www.afl.com.au/ |
Few sporting spectacles rival the Australian Football League (AFL)Grand Final. It is played by the two most successful teams at the end of the season. Around 110,000 people cram the MCG, while millions watch the telecast world-wide. The lead up to the big game is frenetic with saturation coverage in the media. A highlight is the parade of the two competing teams through city streets on the Friday before the game. Tickets are hard to obtain, with most going to club members, sponsors and the media. If you can find one, consider yourself lucky. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Scott |
 Photo: Michael Spencer  |
 Photo: Michelle Thomason |
 Photo: Les Walsh |
 A celebration of literature |
117 Sturt Street (CUB Malthouse) Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9645 9244 http://www.mwf.com.au |
Based in the Malthouse Theatre complex, this celebration of the written word consists of seminars, debates, readings and master classes from visiting authors. Sponsored by The Age newspaper, it covers almost every kind of literature from highbrow novels to non-fiction writing. Some of the names it has attracted in the past few years include Ben Okri, Isabelle Allende, Poppy Z Brite, Melvyn Bragg, Germaine Greer, Sir Arthur C. Clarke and Vikram Seth. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne Celebrates its Greek Roots |
Lonsdale Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia http://www.antipodesfestival.c... |
As home to the world's third-largest Greek community, the largest outside Greece, it is hardly surprising that Melbourne hosts an annual festival of Hellenic culture. The Antipodes Festival salutes the achievements of the immigrants who arrived in Australia after World War II and celebrates classical and contemporary Greek culture. The largest event is a two-day street party, or Glendi, in Melbourne's Lonsdale Street Greek precinct. It features traditional music, dance and Greek food such as bitter-sweet cakes and souvlaki. The festival also runs a Greek film festival at the Treasury Theatre, 2 McArthur Place, East Melbourne. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Classic cinema |
1 Chapel Street Corner Chapel Street and Dandenong Road Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 (0)3 9510 1414 http://www.astor-theatre.com/ |
Harking back to the grand old days of cinema going in the 1930s, the Astor Cinema is all about atmosphere. It is alone worth a visit for its art deco architecture, inviting foyers and comfortable chairs. However, it also has the fundamentals of cinema going right, with a huge screen and excellent sound quality. The Astor shows both classic films and recent releases in a double feature format each evening. Look out for special screenings of 70mm classic films—a pleasure to watch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Colson |
 Photo: Mark Micallef |
 Classical & contemporary dance |
Kavanagh Street, Level 5 The Australian Ballet Centre, Southbank Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9669 2700 http://www.australianballet.co... |
The Australian Ballet is renowned worldwide for exceptional dancers and refined performances. Its repertoire is built on the traditions of classical ballet and the best of contemporary dance. The company employs 62 Melbourne-based dancers who perform over 160 shows a year. The Sleeping Beauty was the company's initial performance in 1962, which went on to attract legendary artists such as Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. In 1973, Nureyev both directed and performed in his own production of Don Quixote with the Australian Ballet. The Australian Ballet performs with the State Orchestra in the Victorian Arts Centre, State Theatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Orsolya Gergely |
 Inspiring choral music |
Mont Albert Melbourne, VIC 3127 Australia +61 (0)3 9888 4898 http://home.vicnet.net.au/~abc... |
The Australian Boys Choir has developed significantly since its modest beginnings 60 years ago as a high school choir in Victoria. It is one of three vocal groups under the Australian Boys Choral Institute. Recognised as the country's oldest secular boys choir, it has upheld its choral excellence through a traditional training scheme that concentrates on an applicant's musicianship, rather than his age. The group has performed extensively throughout the US and took part in America Fest—a celebration of male choirs. The group performs nationally on a regular basis and can occasionally be seen with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Hot shots of world tennis |
Melbourne Park Tennis Centre Melbourne, VIC 3002 Australia +61 3 9299 9079 http://www.ausopen.org |
A favourite on the annual events calendar, the Australian Open guarantees a line-up of the hottest names in world tennis. Boasting two large arenas with retractable roofs, numerous outside courts and the spacious Garden Square, the Australian Open allows spectators to get close to the action in comfort. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Taylor |
 Photo: Jimmy Harris |
 Photo: Mark Fanthorpe |
 Photo: Donina Asera |
 Photo: Rob Young |
 Photo: Audrey Jacometti |
 Photo: Rex Chung |
 Photo: Catherine Polley |
 Photo: Simone Messina |
 Photo: Peter Kakalias |
 Photo: Santanu Banik |
 Photo: dantega |
 Photo: Santanu Banik |
 Photo: anhzz |
 Photo: Kate Gac |
 Photo: Brianna |
 Photo: © Precious Dream |
 Photo: Sevim Dogan Ozkan |
 Photo: John Webber |
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An orchestra for Bolero and the Beatles |
P.O. Box 154 Vermont Melbourne, VIC 3133 Australia +61 3 9800 3077 http://www.auspops.com.au |
This superb 85-piece pops/philharmonic orchestra annually draws thousands of Melburnians into its concert seats. Originally inspired by the famous Boston Pops Orchestra, the APO brings the Concert Hall alive with its broad spectrum of interpretations ranging from Gershwin and Tchaikovsky to the Beatles. Sell-out performances have included stars, such as The Three Tenors, Sir Cliff Richard, Barry Humphries and Olivia Newton-John. The orchestra performs regularly at the Melbourne Concert Hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Street Party! |
Various venues Brunswick Melbourne, VIC 3057 Australia +61 3 9388 1460 http://www.brunswickmusicfesti... |
Located in the multicultural inner-city suburb of Brunswick, this festival features performances by a variety of nationally known roots and folk musicians. In addition, there are community events like barbecues, picnics, special women's events and the opening street party on Sydney Road, a stronghold of Melbourne's Turkish and Arabic communities. The Festival begins with an official welcoming ceremony by members of the Wurundjeri Aboriginal people, the original inhabitants of the local area. The Moreland Council, together with various arts bodies, funds the festival. Many events are free. See website for complete yearly particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A welcoming, friendly pub |
211 Gertrude Street Fitzroy Melbourne, VIC 3065 Australia +61 3 9419 0818 |
This unpretentious neighbourhood pub offers something for everyone. Featuring a pleasant lounge with an open fireplace plus an outside eating area, the Builder's Arms is well set up for all seasons. The small dance floor heaves into action on Thursday nights when it becomes home to gay alternative Mecca, Q and A, as well as hosting disco nights on Friday and Saturday. Otherwise, there are poetry readings on Sundays, acoustic music on Wednesdays, videos on Tuesdays and fun and games on the Monday night Scrabble-Trivial Pursuit-checkers spectacular. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Broadhead |
 Photo: Mark Broadhead |
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Ring It In! |
Little Bourke Street (Between Flinders and Exhibition streets) Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9857 7798 http://www.vicnet.net.au |
Sound, colour, action! As Chinese communities world-wide celebrate the New Year, the narrow streets of Melbourne's Chinatown host a claustrophobic street party, complete with firecrackers, huge, milling crowds and a procession of traditional Chinese drummers and lion dancers. The highlight of the day is the procession of Dai Loong, the world's longest and one of its oldest imperial dragons. Normally kept in the Chinese Museum, it emerges for one day only to dance through the streets. The area's many Chinese restaurants are packed with families celebrating the New Year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bill Strong |
 Photo: Adrian Tritschler |
 Photo: chansplace |
 Photo: winvictoria |
 Photo: George Georgiou |
 Photo: singapore_walker |
 Photo: Pical44 |
 Photo: David Firth |
 Photo: Nicholas Chew |
 Photo: Kate |
 Photo: Steven Looi |
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Physical speed dancing |
111 Sturt Street Southbank Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9645 5188 http://www.chunkymove.com |
Since their first production in 1998, the funky and sexy Chunky Move dancers continue to engage audiences around Australia and the globe. The group sets itself apart by performing at venues other than the traditional theatre, including nightclubs. Aided by cutting-edge designers such as Tina Borg and compositions by contemporary Melbourne DJs, performances have attracted a much younger crowd. Past favourites have included Bonehead and Body Parts. One performance saw a camera strapped to a bike helmet, worn by a performer, used to record the dancers' movements in order to create Australia's first dance CD-ROM. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: thedop3fish |
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Melbourne Australia |
The modern skyline of the financial district contrasts with Victorian architecture, and the alleyways and arcades that snake through the city give it charm and character. Swanston Street, a pedestrian mall considered to be the city's main drag, runs from the ornate 19th-century domes of Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chang Yang Yew |
 Photo: otbc |
 Photo: Rick Monk.com |
 Photo: Abdul R |
 Photo: Daniel Wood |
 Photo: Martin Reddington |
 Photo: Steve Davidson |
 Photo: Lily Tse |
 Photo: Brendan Puli |
 Photo: halftheworldaway |
 Photo: Rick01 |
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 Photo: Estelle Pizer |
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Glitz and glamour! |
8 Whiteman Street Southbank Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9292 8888 http://www.crowncasino.com.au |
The biggest development in Melbourne since the gold rush, Crown Entertainment Complex opened up a previously rundown area of the Yarra River and turned it into a gold mine for retail outlets. The four levels of the complex house restaurants, bars, designer fashion shops, entertainment venues, a 24-screen cinema complex, a five-star hotel - and of course the Casino, which attracts an international clientele and is now Victoria's biggest tourist attraction. The Showroom, Odeon Cabaret, Mercury Lounge and Heat Discotheque often host international acts. An age limit of 18 years applies to the gaming rooms and bars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Long Zheng |
 Photo: Stuart Gilberd |
 Photo: Joan |
 Photo: Scott Sandars |
 Photo: Kristian Lam |
 Photo: Simon Davis |
 Photo: Kevin Jewell |
 Photo: Nick Jennion |
 Photo: Rob Hicks |
 Photo: Renee Picasso Manoppo |
 Visually stunning luxury hotel |
8 Whiteman Street Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 (0)3 9292 6666 / +1 800 81 1653 (Toll Free) http://www.crowntowers.com.au/ |
Australia's largest hotel, Crown Towers is part of the Crown Entertainment Complex, meaning shops, cafes and restaurants, cinemas, theatre and nightclubs—as well as the Casino—are literally on your doorstep. This is a five-star hotel with highly impressive convention facilities and within easy reach of the central business district. Situated on the banks of the Yarra River, the views of the city and surrounds from the upper floors are magnificent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jes |
 Photo: Timothy Hannan |
 Photo: Alan Isherwood |
 Photo: Adam Tse |
 Photo: David Porter |
 Photo: Nicklas Petch |
 Photo: Phillip Fry |
 Photo: Guillermo Ruiz |
 Photo: Graeme Gillam |
 Photo: Maurice Guerrieri |
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A Melbourne institution |
11 Upper Esplanade Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 3 9534 0211 http://theesplanadehotel.com.au/ |
The Esplanade Hotel, affectionately known as the "Espy", is a landmark of Melbourne's music and drinking scene. Grungy, almost seedy, the Espy attracts a mixed crowd of pub enthusiasts, hip young things and older ones just enjoying the atmosphere. No stylish modern design here. The Espy is all about sticky carpets, sweaty live music, playing pool or drinking in the front bar with its Bay views. There is also a beer garden, and comedy acts and bands appear regularly. The quaint restaurant is a cosy place to fill up on nutritious and cheap food. It is especially strong on soups, noodles and rice dishes. Admission to the front bar is free; there may be a cover charge for bands and comedy performances in the Gershwin Room. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ProPRphotos.com |
 Photo: laureskew |
 Photo: Brooke Lenon |
 Photo: Roberts Birze |
 Photo: liloch |
 Photo: Helen Thura Palsson |
 Photo: Anders Alexander |
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Melbourne Australia |
Even more cosmopolitan is Brunswick Street, one of Melbourne's liveliest and most distinctive streets. Originally a working class neighbourhood, it has emerged as the heartland of bohemian café culture, humming night and day with colourful bars, nightclubs and restaurants of every description, as well as funky and unconventional stores. Running parallel a few blocks down, Smith Street retains a grittier edge, with long-time local residents, refugees and the down and out mixing with the patrons of its cafés and music venues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steven Pam |
 Photo: oli bryant |
 Photo: Donna |
 Photo: Camila |
 Photo: Martin |
 Photo: Kristie Hughes |
 Photo: Kristie Hughes |
 Photo: Martin |
 Photo: Oliver Parzer |
 Photo: Jessica Stanley |
 Photo: Jessica Stanley |
 Photo: Janice Lo |
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 Photo: David McCoy |
 Photo: Jenny Owens |
 Photo: David Aitken |
 Photo: Al Shannon |
 Photo: Andrew Kneebone |
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 Photo: Paul Cullen |
 Photo: Tegan Broderick |
 Photo: Damon Carr |
 Photo: Tristan Blattman |
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 Photo: mightyfilms.com.au |
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 Photo: Adrian Palmer |
 Photo: flauntster&tones |
 Photo: Silvia Susen |
 Photo: jean poole |
 Photo: itsnoteasybeingme79 |
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Got to live Formula One Racing |
220, Albert Park Road Albert Park Melbourne, VIC 3206 Australia +61 (0)3 9258 7100 http://www.grandprix.com.au |
Once a year, Albert Park is transformed from a peaceful jogger's paradise to one of the longest racing circuits in the Formula One World Championship motor racing series. The Park's 5.26 kilometres of road are lined with grand stands, corporate marquees and public entertainment for the racing extravaganza. Other attractions include dragsters, a Grand Prix Expo, autograph signing sessions and celebrity races. Seventeen track-side super-screens mean you will not miss a minute of the action. Visit the book now link for bookings. Admission: AUD18-99. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trigger Happy Photo Dude |
 Photo: Bharath Kumar Oleti |
 Photo: Prescott Pym |
 Photo: Milorad Zecevic |
 Photo: Kade Matthews |
 Photo: Wilson Afonso |
 Photo: John Logan |
 Photo: Scott Johnson |
 Photo: Rob Young |
 Photo: Steven Kaplan |
 Photo: Alun Machin |
 Photo: Ed Keighley |
 Photo: Luke van Grieken |
 Photo: Luke van Grieken |
 Photo: Ed Keighley |
 Photo: Christopher Kahler |
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A friendly lesbian and gay pub |
51 Gipps Street Collingwood Melbourne, VIC 3066 Australia +61 (0)3 9419 4748 |
The Glasshouse is a gay pub, particularly popular with the lesbian crowd. There is a pool table, as well as a dance floor and a small outdoor courtyard. The ambience is relaxed, unpretentious and friendly, with live bands on Sunday afternoons. Its location puts it within close striking distance of a number of other gay venues such as the Peel Dance Bar and the (men only) Laird Hotel, if you really want to make a night of it! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Glitzy nightclub in casino complex |
Level 2, 475 Flinders Lane Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9614 8811 http://www.heatdisco.com.au |
Located in the lavish Crown Casino and entertainment complex, Heat is one of Melbourne's most sophisticated clubs. The hot spot offers party-goers an experience unique to any other venue. The eye-catching club is suitable for partying nights or chilled out evenings. Enjoy Heat's classy style with lavish visual effects, excellent resident DJs, and delicious drinks. Take in Melbourne's beautiful city skyline while sipping on a Cosmo in the laid back cocktail bar or make your way to the main discotheque to dance the night away. Check website for full details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sharnee McGarigle |
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Her Majesty's Theatre |
219 Exhibition Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 8643 3300 http://www.hmt.com.au/ |
Like many of Melbourne's old theatres, Her Majesty's is not really equipped for the large scale productions expected of theatre these days. However some productions, such as Chicago, actually manage to make lack of space seem like a virtue, utilising techniques like singers performing their numbers while hanging off ladders. But the individual foibles of each grand old building in the city theatre area are to be treasured. It is part of a theatre atmosphere that only a few cities in the world have. Sydney would kill for it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katie Hannan |
 Photo: Debbie Tea |
 Photo: Ruth Chong |
 Photo: Nghi Huynh |
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Fashion Spectacular |
Various venues Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 0088 9200 http://www.melbournefashionfes... |
Melbourne prides itself on being Australia's fashion capital and this event bolsters its claim. Consisting of numerous parades, parties and special showings, the top local designers show off their autumn and winter collections. From fresh and funky designs by the city's custom boutiques, to classic lines from its major department stores and fashion houses, there are clothes for every taste. The festival also draws top international models to strut their stuff on the catwalk and promote Australian designers. Admission: Some events are free; ticket prices vary for others. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Blamey_ |
 Photo: Colin Charles |
 Photo: Fernando de Sousa |
 Photo: Yasemin Sabuncu |
 Photo: Rick Latchman |
 Photo: Danielle Allison |
 Photo: miss elodie |
 Photo: Wayne Wong |
 Photo: Jake Lowe |
 Photo: Matt @ Disenchanted |
 Photo: Dean Podmore |
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3,000 restaurants, 284 wineries |
Various Venues Melbourne, VIC Australia +61 3 9823 6100 http://www.melbournefoodandwin... |
The extremely popular Melbourne Food and Wine Festival has grown from to more than 100 events. With 3,000 restaurants in Melbourne serving 140 different types of cuisine and 284 wineries in Victoria (the highest number of any state in Australia), it is not surprising that this is Australia's greatest food and wine festival. Highlights are the internationally acclaimed Master Classes, The World's Longest Lunch, Hawkers' Markets, Slow Food Banquet, Chocolate Week and Restaurant Week, plus walking, talking and tasting tours galore. See the web site for details of events, times and prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: karen fergason |
 Photo: karen fergason |
 Photo: Mathew Packer |
 Feast in the Weird and Wonderful |
25 Easey Street (Various venues in city and suburbs) Melbourne, VIC 3066 Australia +61 3 8412 8788 http://www.melbournefringe.com... |
Just before the Melbourne Festival, the "Fringe" is a three-week alternative version of the major international event. Wonderful and weird art forms dominate venues across the city! Melbourne Fringean organisation rather than just a Festivalis dedicated to supporting local independent artists. It encourages innovative, independent and experimental art, providing an audience for otherwise unseen works of art. In venues as varied as the funky streets of Brunswick, to the sands of local beaches, this is a perfect chance to see something a little off-the-wall. Admission: Tickets start at AUD10 with some free events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Australia's pre-eminent arts festival |
P. O. Box 10, Flinders Lane (At various venues in and around the city) Melbourne, VIC 8009 Australia +61 3 9662 4242 http://www.melbournefestival.c... |
Melbourne, renowned as Australia's cultural capital, has embraced this Festival with such passion that it is now the country's greatest annual arts festival. Since 1986, the Festival has consistently delivered a programme of top Australian and international performers to enthusiastic audiences. Visitors and locals revel in the superb selection of theatre, dance, visual arts, opera and music. The diverse programme is not just for culture vultures. There is a high quality cultural experience to meet most pockets and tastes. Admission: From AUD20-AUD120 per performance (prices vary widely). Some free events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everyone is a comedian |
Various Venues Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9417 7711 http://www.comedyfestival.com.au |
Every year Melbourne hosts one one of the top three comedy festivals in the world along with Edinburgh and Montreal. Visit a few of the performances and your jaw will be aching severely. Laughs, laughs and more laughs from a line-up of famous and unknown comedians, from Australia and overseas. Comedy Festival period means three weeks of pure hilarity, when audiences shower new talent with the same enthusiasm as the more well-established comics. This is great value-for-money entertainment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel i Australien |
 Photo: tjnz |
 Photo: Liz Christie |
 Photo: Sarah Yip |
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Cinematic Showcase |
207 Johnston Street, 1st Floor P.O.Box 2206, Fitzroy Melbourne, VIC 3065 Australia +61 3 9417 2011 http://www.melbournefilmfestiv... |
As the oldest-running arts event in Melbourne (established in 1952), the Film Festival has an outstanding reputation for putting on a showcase of Australian and international filmmaking, including some 220 Australian-made films at the previous events. Hundreds of films are screened during a two-week program of short films, full feature films, documentaries, animation, and experimental films. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show |
Nicholson Street Royal Exhibition Building Melbourne, VIC 3053 Australia +61 (0)3 9864 1111 http://www.melbflowershow.com.au |
Melbourne is famous for its gardens and this annual event has become a fixture on the city's calendar. It sees the beautiful and historic Carlton Gardens, around the Royal Exhibition Centre, transformed as 300 exhibitors vie with each other to provide the most dazzling landscapes and beautiful flower beds. In addition to viewing these creations, visitors can buy plants and garden accessories, and seek out professional advice for their own gardens. Check website for admission prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gavin Tan |
 Photo: Rick Monk.com |
 Photo: Rick Monk.com |
 Photo: OAF Captures |
 Photo: OAF Captures |
 Photo: anna.kumar |
 Photo: anna.kumar |
 Photo: hiketsu_chan |
 Photo: Margaret Waters |
 Photo: cUpCake__ // |
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Moomba Waterfest |
Birrarung Marr and Alexandra Gardens City Central Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9658 9658 www.moombawaterfest.com.au |
Every year at Alexandra Gardens, some half million people join in this favorite family event. Moomba - from the Aboriginal word meaning 'getting together and having fun' - has become one of Australia's largest outdoor festivals. A colorful cultural and sporting celebration, it includes a fantastic procession of floats through the city center, which showcase Melbourne's multicultural society and range of community groups. They are interspersed with bands, dancers and innovative street entertainment. And that is only the start of 10 days of fireworks, carnivals, an outdoor art show, water skiing and a dragon-boat festival. Admission to most events is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Suman Bhattacharya |
 Photo: Suman Bhattacharya |
 Photo: Roland Gesthuizen |
 Photo: Dennis Bonnici |
 Photo: firadaus |
 Photo: Christian Froehlich |
 Photo: Vince Colaci |
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Melbourne Queer Film Festival |
Federation Square, Flinders Street, Melbourne ACMI Cinema's, Australian Centre for the Moving Image Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9827 2022 http://www.melbournequeerfilm.... |
This event is one of the highlights of Melbourne's gay cultural calendar, screening films from all over the world. Whether fluffy escapist fantasies, local student productions, gritty and earnest documentaries or imaginative short films, the programme is usually varied enough to cater to the most demanding queer viewer. The festival also consists of seminars, debates, parties and special screenings. Check the gay magazine Brother Sister and the Melbourne Star Observer around festival time for a full programme. See website for complete yearly particulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Kidd |
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For all Melbourne visitor enquiries |
Corner Flinders and Swanston streets Melbourne, VIC 3001 Australia +61 3 9658 9658 http://www.thatsmelbourne.com.au |
Open daily, this centre is Melbourne's main provider of tourist information. It supplies up-to-date details on anything and everything in Melbourne that may be of interest to visitors. The friendly staff offer expert advice, multilingual information and hundreds of free leaflets to take with you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alan Fong |
 Photo: Aleksandar Lazic |
 Photo: Patrice Liem |
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Wild night in the concrete jungle |
Palace Complex, Lower Esplanade St Kilda Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 (0)3 9534 0655 |
Monkey is one of Melbourne clubland's Sunday night traditions. Drawing a similar crowd to the Dome or Freakazoid, it is a mixed gay/straight party with a wild, good times atmosphere and a pulsing house beat. Keep an eye on web sites and the street press (and traffic lights and telephone poles) for the distinctive Monkey logo, which advertises frequent special events like the Grand Prix Weekend spectacular Grease Monkey, or its collaboration with British gay club Trade, for Monkey Trade. Cover charges vary depending on whether there is a guest DJ in the house. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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1960s chic in the 21st century |
141 Johnston Street Melbourne, VIC 3065 Australia +61 3 9417 0090 |
With the opening of The Night Cat in 1994, Melbourne's cafe culture finally came of age. It is a fusion of a comfortable lounge atmosphere, an elegant meeting place, complete with dance floor and sophisticated music that will have many people toe tapping and dancing to styles of music they would not usually listen to. Friday and Saturday nights are particularly busy and you may have to queue. On Sunday evenings an older, local crowd descends, creating a real community feel. The large bar serves basic drinks, house beer and wine. Focaccias and cakes are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Sandars |
 Photo: ANdrewisme |
 Photo: peter stuckings |
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An unpretentious watering-hole |
127 Brunswick Street Fitzroy Melbourne, VIC 3065 Australia +61 (0)3 9417 2711 |
Located at the start of the trendy Brunswick Street café strip, the Old Colonial Inn is an oasis, free of the oh-so-funky decor and attitude that have become de rigueur in this part of town. It is not dowdy, just unpretentious. Featuring a beer garden out the back, as well as a front bar, it regularly hosts local musicians and acoustic nights, as well as a weekly comedy night on Mondays. Among the tasty dishes on offer are butternut and potato soup, Hokkien noodles tossed in peanut sauce, Turkish pide with dips and focaccias. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Opera which defies tradition |
Corner Fanning and Fawkner Streets Southbank Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9685 3777 (Opera Australia) http://www.opera-australia.org... |
Opera Australia's OzOpera performs year-round in communities large and small across Australia, supported by Principal Sponsor Australia Post, and gives many people their first experience of opera. OzOpera also helps to build a repertoire of work that is distinctively Australian through a dynamic commissioning program. OzOpera activities include a yearly tour to regional Australia, management of the Schools Touring Program in Victoria and New South Wales, and additional activities ranging from workshops, concert performances, and a fully staged chamber opera. For full details, please visit OzOpera's website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Cruisy gay bar with fun dance floor action |
Corner of Peel Street And Wellington Street Melbourne, VIC 3066 Australia +61 3 9419 4762 |
The Peel is one of Melbourne's most popular gay venues, located in the heart of the "Northside district", as the Fitzroy/Collingwood gay patch is sometimes called. The dance floor might be small, but competition for space (and attention) is fierce. A cross-section of gay men, of all ages and interests, dance until dawn to the latest Whitney and Jennifer Lopez remixes, while Sunday sees the packed house sweating to eighties hits for the ever popular retro night. Dark and comfortable, it gets even darker and more relaxed for regular theme parties, which you will normally see advertised on posters in the club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Lively |
99 Smith Street Fitzroy Melbourne, VIC 3065 Australia +61 (0)3 9419 2687 |
Also known as Africa Bar, this establishment becomes a nightclub on weekends. The lively music and dancing will transport you to West Africa. Sit at one of the bare wooden tables under a straw hut roof. Relax with a "safari cocktail" until the background beat gets you up and dancing, as only African music can. Dishes are healthy, hearty and more exotic sounding than they look. Starters include ata, pan fried bean cakes, and the delightful gussi, pumpkin-seed cakes. Vegetarian offerings include couscous in Nigerian style okra sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne Australia |
Just out of the city are Prahran and South Yarra, names often used interchangeably for roughly the same area. Home to Chapel Street, lined with boutiques and nightclubs, this is Melbourne's favourite playground and is packed every weekend with young people out for only one thing--fun! Saturday nights see the street grind to a halt and transform into a traffic jam disco, as cars blare top volume techno music, while the gay strip along Commercial Road also buzzes. The funkier, more relaxed Greville Street is home of vintage fashion stores, a Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew North |
 Photo: suilven222 |
 Photo: Australian Rozie |
 Photo: Sarah Rose |
 Photo: Rachael Robb |
 Photo: Punnen Syriac |
 Photo: James East |
 Photo: Sarah Rose |
 Photo: Christian Vecchiola |
 Photo: Elise Gillies |
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 Photo: Janine Ferris |
 Photo: Michael Wills |
 Photo: Terry S |
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The queen of Melbourne theatres |
163 Spring Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9299 9800 http://www.marrinertheatres.co... |
In use since 1854, major restoration in the late 1980s saw the Princess Theatre reopen in 1989 capable of providing the technology modern shows demand. Its ornate façade is in keeping in with the surrounding area that includes, nearby, the historic Windsor Hotel. The Princess is yet another of the theatres in Melbourne that show her English roots. Used for big production musicals, it holds the record for the longest playing musical in Melbourne. And don't forget it is haunted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Funky, relaxed hangout |
229 Chapel Street Melbourne, VIC 3181 Australia +61 3 9521 5985 http://www.revolverupstairs.co... |
Revolver is one of Melbourne's most stylish yet comfortable hang-outs. In addition to the front room with its dance floor, there is a spacious lounge where you can have a drink, chat and admire the funky artwork. There is also a pool table and vintage video games to play. Monday night is quiz night - use your knowledge of trashy pop trivia to win prizes. On other nights there is a mishmash of music from Latin to lounge, including frequent spoken word and dance performances. Tasty Thai food is served in the lounge. Breakfast is also available from 5am on weekends. Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mr.itch |
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A not so secret garden |
Birdwood Avenue South Yarra Melbourne, VIC 3141 Australia +61 3 9252 2300 http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/ |
Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are magnificently landscaped and boast a superb collection of plants from around Australia and the world. Spend a few hours strolling around, observing the beautiful black swans and water birds. Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Night Sky Experience (bookings required). There are special holiday and educational programs for children. Moonlight Cinema takes place nightly during summer. The Plant Craft Cottage sells unique handcrafts and the Observatory Café is great for light refreshments. The more formal Terrace Restaurant is ideal for corporate and private functions. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A maze of interconnected bars |
41 Bourke Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9650 2400 |
If a bar with a certain touch of quiet European elegance appeals, then Spleen is the place for your night out. One of the more mellow drinking establishments in this part of Bourke Street, soft jazz gently plays in the background. Find a secluded nook for a quiet conversation or wander through what seems like a maze of interconnected bars under one roof. The clientele ranges from local students to corporate types. The retro-style decor makes for a casual atmosphere, although it does get busy on weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Series of Fun Sundays |
Various venues Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 (0)3 9209 6620 http://www.stkildafestival.com... |
St Kilda does not need a festival to remain an ever-popular weekend spot. Every Sunday in St. Kilda people have coffee or brunch, walk on the beach, window-shop, jog, rollerblade, sail or simply hanging out. The St Kilda Festival simply makes the "Sunday thing" bigger! Bop to cool sounds on the foreshore, cheer the bikini-clad volleyballers, buy some groovy handmade presents at the craft fair, be entertained by buskers and performers or simply hang out. With a fair and special children's activities too, the St Kilda Festival is an established favourite. Admission is free. See the website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne Australia |
Further out is St. Kilda, which has transformed from a shabby red-light district to a bayside resort and is now a popular place for backpackers and Melburnians on a sunny weekend. The attraction is not so much the mediocre Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Relive those tasteless decades! |
Palace Entertainment Complex, Lower Esplanade St. Kilda Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia +61 3 9534 0655 http://www.twister.net.au |
Twister is Melbourne's biggest retro night. If you want to flash back to the glory days of the 70s and 80s, then this is your kind of place. Pile up that hair, put on the blue eye shadow and boogie on down to Kylie, the Bangles, ABBA and even the Bay City Rollers. And when the memories get just too much, you can take refuge in the side room playing contemporary top 40 hits. Saturdays are massive, filling the entire Palace complex, while Fridays are restricted to the back room, which features an ocean facing balcony. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A riot of colour |
Victoria Street Melbourne, VIC 3121 Australia +61 (0)3 9428 9078 |
Located in one of Melbourne's most colourful areas, the Vietnamese enclave of Victoria Street in Richmond, this celebration of the Lunar New Year is, if anything, more raucous than its better known Chinatown equivalent. The street is closed to traffic for the day. Small children play with firecrackers, people sell red and yellow flowers, to bring good luck for the New Year. It has a lively, family-oriented atmosphere, with traditional entertainment. The event date varies with the Lunar New Year (usually February-March). The Vietnamese street party takes place on the Sunday following the New Year, to avoid clashing with the Chinese celebrations held in the city on Saturday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hip house music club |
371 Chapel Street Melbourne, VIC 3141 Australia +61 3 9827 1771 |
Named after the infamous LA club, the Viper Room opened a few years ago on the Chapel Street strip. It has since carved out a niche as a home for serious house music fans, with some of the city's top DJs like Jason Digby and Queen Martine in residence. On Fridays, DJs Kat, Billy Solos, Matt Crawford and Peter McNamara play music with a more underground edge. The venue itself, perched above Chapel Street, is quite small and the queues can be daunting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Celebration of heritage |
Various venues Melbourne, VIC 3016 Australia +61 (0)3 9397 1352 http://www.williamstownfestiva... |
This local community festival sees residents take to the streets to celebrate the history of their quaint and historic neighbourhood, and especially its connections with the sea. The festival includes an exhibition of paintings and sculpture for the awarding of a Contemporary Art Prize, local theatre performances and a street party and procession at Nelson Reserve. The Community Day starts with the firing of a canon salute over the harbour, before the market stalls and Carnival are set up on the reserve, and a parade of floats march to celebrate the area's history. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The heart of Melbourne |
Southbank Promenade Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia http://www.yarrariver.info/ |
Flowing through the heart of Melbourne is the Yarra River. Originally known as Birrarung or the river of mist to the city's Aboriginal inhabitants, the Yarra played a vital role in the development of the city. Today, it is lined with some of Melbourne's most popular attractions. A 10 minute stroll along its banks in the city centre will take you past the World Trade Centre, Exhibition Centre, Crown Casino Complex, the Aquarium, the Southgate Centre, Flinders Street train station, the ornate Princes Bridge and the Domain gardens. To the East of the city centre, the river is lined with grassy green parks with picnic areas and barbecues that are thronged on sunny weekends with locals and visitors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jazz in the Jungle |
Elliott Avenue (Royal Melbourne Zoo) Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia +61 (0)3 9285 9300 http://www.zoo.org.au |
This novel idea sees the Melbourne Zoo extend its opening hours for special twilight jazz concerts on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can tour the animal exhibits (except for the platypus and gorilla enclosures) and take a peek at the nocturnal life of the creatures, before heading to the bandstand to hear some of Australia's top jazz performers with lions roaring and birds shrieking in the background. There are also special talks by zookeepers on nocturnal wildlife and barbecues available for an evening meal. Or you can ring in advance and book a picnic hamper. Admission: Adults AUD15.80; concession AUD11.70; children AUD7.80; family AUD42.60. Review © 2007, Wcities |