Maya Skidmore

If the thought of joining the hoards of shoppers at malls in December gives you full-body chills, save yourself the bother and add these delightful Chrissie markets to your list. From art and design treasure troves to European-inspired food markets, these Christmas shopping pop-ups have all the yuletide cheer to make the season bright.  This year, you’ll find a magical weekly market popping up in Martin Place every Thursday to Saturday in December, festive foodie treats at Carriageworks, and a light-filled studio offering super-affordable (and beautiful) ceramics.Regardless of your holiday budget, it’s worth hitting at least one market for your annual dose of festive cheer – if only for the fondue.  As the silly season continues, we expect more markets to be announced across the city – we'll keep you posted here as soon as we hear more. Merry shopping! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Don't want to slave over a hot stove this Chrissy? These are the best Christmas Day lunches and dinners in Sydney.    

Western Australia is one of the most spectacular and varied places on the planet. Spanning 2.5 million square kilometres, it’s packed with dreamy beach towns, isolated wine regions and jaw-dropping islands that you have to see to believe. But with so much ground to cover, creating the perfect travel plan can be a bit overwhelming. That’s where our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley steps in to share her top tips on the best places to visit in Western Australia. Short on time? Spend a few days soaking up the buzz of Perth, exploring its hip neighbour Fremantle (Australia's top tourism town for 2025), and taking a day trip to the iconic Rottnest Island. For the ultimate Western Australia adventure – think swimming with whale sharks and sunset camel rides on the beach – a month-long road trip is the way to go. Be sure to tick off all the destinations included below. Editors' favourite places to visit in Western Australia: 🌊 Best for beaches: Rottnest Island 🌳 Best for outdoor adventures: Ningaloo Reef 🍷 Best for food and drink: Margaret River 😱 The best places to visit in Australia🥾 The best things to do in Perth

For far too long, South Australia has lived in the shadows of our nation’s more populous states. But with its world-class wineries, dazzling festivals and vibrant cultural scene, South Australia is now a must-visit on any trip Down Under. The state’s capital, Adelaide, is an obvious place to start your southern adventure, with the stunning McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley wine regions just a short drive away. A scenic road trip north will take you to underrated gems, like the Flinders Ranges or Coober Pedy. Alternatively, head south and ferry across to Kangaroo Island, our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley’s favourite South Australian spot. Better yet, why not tick off all the incredible destinations on our list of the best places to visit in South Australia? The world is your oyster (top tip: you’ll find the freshest ones in Coffin Bay). Editors' favourite places to visit in South Australia: 🌈 Best for arts and culture: Adelaide 🌊 Best for hiking and swimming: Kangaroo Island 🍷 Best for food and drink: Barossa Valley 😱 The best places to visit in Australia🥾 The best things to do in Adelaide

The Northern Territory is absolutely brimming with natural wonders, including countless natural pools, beautiful bushwalks, breathtaking mountain ranges and rugged coasts. Full of adventures, this outback territory is also brimming with knowledge, thanks to the many Aboriginal people who call the land home.  There's so much to learn about their ancient culture – one of the oldest in the world – whether it’s through listening to a Dreamtime story or learning how to respect the land we’re lucky to walk on. Fuel up the 4WD, dust off those hiking boots and get ready for an adventure like no other with our guide to the best places to visit in the Northern Territory. Editors' favourite places in the Northern Territory: 🌈 Best for cultural experiences: Uluru 🌳 Best for hiking and swimming: Litchfield National Park ☀️ Best for adventure: Kakadu 🌳 Your ultimate guide to Litchfield National Park☀️ Everything you need to do in Uluru🌅 The best things to do in Darwin

For most, Christmas is the Very Best Day of the year, filled with Mariah Carey hits, fresh prawns, third helpings of pav and free-flowing booze. But the combined pressure of the extended family, sweltering heat and Everest-like dishes can really take the shine off the day. Which is why you may want to throw caution to the wind and book a table at one of Sydney's best restaurants. You and your family can enjoy a delicious feast paired with Champagne, and the very best bit – there's no washing up required on your part. We’ve rounded up the best Christmas Day lunches and dinners to enjoy this Thursday, December 25 – all that’s left to do is book and BYO Christmas cheer. Hope you have a very merry Christmas. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: Check out our guide to the best Christmas markets here. Where to buy Christmas trees in Sydney.

The five days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve are a strange, awkward, in-between time for everyone. Most places have closed shop for the summer, while others have new holiday hours that are tricky to wrap your head around. At this time of year, Sydney tends to feel more empty than usual as most locals make a mass exodus for elsewhere, but if you plan on sticking around and having a lovely summer holiday in a whole city that you're likely to get (probably, mostly) to yourself, we have put together a list for you of all the coolest things for you to do in town between Christmas Day 2025 and NYE, 2026. You're welcome.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: Want more culture? Check out our guide to the best art exhibitions and theatre and musicals on in Sydney this month. 

For many Sydneysiders, it's an undeniable truth that the weekend market is one of our most beloved cultural institutions. However, when looking for the most amazing market to hit up in Sydney, it can be hard to know where to begin.   Our city has a whole lot of options for the market-savvy explorer. Whether it's walking away with farm-fresh produce, unearthing vintage and antique treasures, snaffling fried brunchy fare on the grass, or jiving to a live saxophone player before 10am, this city has something for everyone.  A market jaunt is an affordable way to have a great time in this city. With our round-up of the city's best, we have you covered on where to go, where to look, and when to do it when the craving calls.  Happy hunting.  Mapping out your Friday to Monday? Find out what's on with our guide of things to do in Sydney this weekend, or keep it simple and take your market finds to one of our city's best beaches. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox.

What could be more romantic than a hamper packed for two and sweeping harbour views? Where else could you organise a long, lazy lunch for a group of friends? Or an impromptu dinner date, al fresco? For all this, and more head to one of Sydney's very best picnic spots. And don't worry, we've done the research on if there’s parking, toilets and barbecues available. All you've got to do is pop the champers, sit back and have a right good picnicking time.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: We also have you covered for where to find Sydney's best parks.  Don't go past Sydney's best National Parks either. 

Nothing beats the refreshing touch of an ocean breeze. Luckily for us, Australia’s coastline is packed with incredible hikes that deliver just that. From beautiful beaches to jaw-dropping cliffs, our country is home to some of the most breathtaking coastal hikes in the world. The best part? When you get a little too hot and bothered, you can take a break at one of the numerous beaches dotted along the shore. Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has explored countless trails up and down the coast, and she knows exactly which walks are worth your while. Whether you’ve got a couple of days to spare or want to break them down into smaller legs, these are the best coastal walks in Australia.  Editors’ favourite coastal walks in Australia: 🥾 Best short hike: Burleigh Head National Park Walk, QLD ⛺️ Best multi-day hike: Great Ocean Walk, VIC 🌊 Best accessible hike: Witton Bluff Base Trail, SA NSW | VIC | QLD | WA | SA | TAS 🌊 The best beaches in Australia🏄 Australia's top surf beaches🌈 The best places to visit in Australia

Buckle up, mates! Australia is set to rock 2025 with a jam-packed schedule of music festivals, cultural celebrations, food fiestas and sporting events. Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has curated the ultimate list of the best events happening across the country this year. From dazzling winter light displays to sizzling summer food feasts to vibrant spring flower festivals, there’s something worth travelling for in every state and territory. Start submitting those leave requests and planning your next getaway around these key events across Australia in 2025.  😱 Here are the coolest new things to do in 2025✈️ The best places to visit in Australia right now🍽️ All the greatest restaurants in Australia

Voted the most beautiful country in the world, there's no place on Earth like New Zealand, or, as it is known in Maori, Aotearoa. From its icy glaciers to its lush greenery and picture-postcard scenery, it's of little surprise that this 58,000-square-mile island in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is now one of the most in-demand travel destinations worldwide. Time Out's expert editors have flexed their New Zealand expertise and found the best places to visit for adventure junkies to luxury travellers. From the thick rainforest, pristine coastline and geothermal hotspots of the North Island to the snow-capped mountains, glistening glaciers and world-class wineries of the South, we've found the best destinations in New Zealand that deserve first place on your bucket list. Editors' favourite places in New Zealand: 🎿 Best for hiking and skiing: Queenstown 🍷 Best for food and drink: Wellington 🌋 Best for outdoor adventure: Mount Cook RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Auckland

Whether it’s a five-buck-number from your local servo or a smooth and silky scoop from an artisanal store, there’s no doubt about it, ice cream is happiness in one cool refreshing bite (or lick, because, well, sensitive teeth). On a balmy afternoon or evening, a scoop of gelato or ice cream brings pure simple joy to those that hold it, and Time Out Sydney’s food writers have rounded up the best in town. Cool down with a two-scoop cone and lap up this delicious, sweet treat. You deserve it. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: These are the best cheap eats in Sydney right now Make a meal out of it: These are the finest fish and chips in town

Summer is here, and to celebrate the first Saturday of the silly season, the City of Sydney is throwing a pool-centric extravaganza that's almost too good to be true. For the entire day of Saturday, December 6, you can enter all of the City of Sydney's amazing pools for free. That's right. $0. Also, they're slinging free gelato too. This is not a drill.  The Summer Open Day will pop off at six pools and world-class aquatic centres across the City of Sydney, from 6am to 8pm. With free gelato scoops getting slung at select pools from 11am to 2pm, and free icy poles at others all day (while stocks last), you can bet your bottom dollar that this is one Saturday where you're in for a treat.  Plus, to add to the fun, all the pools on the roster have some kind of fun activation, activities, games and special deals that will be running all day. From lawn games and a hammer challenge, to an ultimate Zumba party, there's no end to the summery surprises and all-round good times to be had on December 6, 2025.  The Summer Open Day is also an exciting opportunity for Sydneysiders to have a peek into the newly renovated Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, which is finally ready for swimming business. A gelato cart, games and one-day only specials on memberships and swim lessons will all be available at what is arguably Sydney's snazziest swimming pool.  Participating pools are: Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, The Domain Prince Alfred Park Pool, Surry Hills Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Ultimo Victoria Pa

Field Day is a Sydney institution. Devotees of the sunny New Year’s Day event will likely be tucking themselves into bed just before the year ticks over on December 31, sober and ready for a wild day of music and festival madness. This popular festival is back for its 25th year on the decks, and it looks like it's going to be a particuarly fresh one.  Kicking off in the Domain on Monday, January 1, Field Day 2026 is exhibiting all signs of shaping up to be a really excellent party. International music arts and homegrown talent will both take to the main stage to sling high energy dance music to Sydney revellers. From young dancers to more seasoned party professionals, Field Day is an inclusive, dance-focused space where hydration is key, and good vibes are a must.  This year, there's an exciting new kid on the block. Enter: Camp Ground, a special stage that'll be solely dedicated to shining a (literal) light on Sydney's queer talent. Curated by, and for, Sydney's LGBTQIA+ communities, this new wing is set up to add an extra, bright dimmension to a legacy institution.  So who are the big names we’ll be holding out for? Start the New Year with Aussie icons and Aria winners, The Presets, 'Shooting Stars' duo Bag Raiders, rising producer STÜM, and Berlin-based techno power-house Patrick Mason. UK-grown talent includes London's BL3SS and the Irish Belters Only, while Aussies are represented by Atomic Kiss, Chase Zera and Djanaba, plus lots, lots more.  Remember to pack your water

In 2025, we're all rolling around in the screen-fuelled dystopia of the AI-verse, and things are feeling pretty weird. Strangely convincing videos and eerily-real (yet not quite) photos have taken over the internet, and with it, our collective perception of reality. Whether it's the current US President or your mum, there are few folks on the planet today who aren't grappling with the inane and mysterious powers of artificial intelligence. It is this truth that has launched the MCA's newest exhibition, aptly titled Data Dreams: Art and AI, an immersive and first-of-its-kind art show that will sweep through a series of interconnected gallery spaces in the MCA from November 21, 2025 through to April 27, 2026. Featuring the groundbreaking works of ten otherwordly artists from all around the world, Data Dreams is setting itself up to be a guide for all of us confused, bumbling humans who have suddenly found ourselves thrust into the AI age. Through immersive installations, AI-films and hallucinatory imagery, the exhibition aims to make you really and truly question what it means to exist in the AI era, and what we can expect from the years to come.  You'll be pointed through Big Questions, like how technology influences power, how our algorithims are shaping each of our individual world views, and how to navigate an illusory "reality".  The artists asking you to expand your mind come from all over, and each of them have something very fascinating to say. From palawa artist Angie

If you're looking for a wellness hub that's tailormade for the future, you can't look past Therapy Wellness Center in Eltham.  Having freshly opened its doors in 2025, Therapy is a cutting-edge holistic health facility that hosts an impressive service menu, ranging from cryotherapy, neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen to sound healing, psychology, IV drips and EMDR therapy. This is definitely a level-up from sipping bad green tea and tepid spa water.  In keeping with the futuristic wellness theme, all treatments at Therapy are totally personalised to you through the centre's signature 'Brain-Body Diagonistic' service, meaning you can expect properly healing personal attention. Hop through Therapy for a series of avant garde treatments usually reserved for LA influencers, dine like a proboiotic-friendly queen at resident Therapy Kitchen (where gut-friendly meals, adaptogen elixirs and therapeutic teas are the mainstay) and generally invest in your wellness in a way you likely haven't before. Your body will thank you for it. For more info and to book in for a treatment, head to the website. Want more wellness and spa action in Melbourne? Here's our top picks. 

The Potter has been at the forefront of the Australian art scene for over fifty years. Opened in 1972, and undergoing an extensive renovation between 2018 and 2024, The Potter has just freshly reopened to the public in 2025, and it's looking pretty good. One of the imprtant homes of the University of Melbourne's vast art collection, The Potter is located in a building on Swanston Street in Carlton, and is home to an impressive, 18,000 strong collection of First Nations, modern Australian and international art and historical artefacts. This new-and-improved iteration of the gallery continues to hold onto its established status as one of Australia's leading art collections. In 2025, it is home to a continuing roladex of exhibitions, public programs and arts fellowships that are aimed at elevating the work of artists, curators and students at the University of Melbourne, and far beyond.  Admission is free.        

Step back in time when you take a ride on Puffing Billy – a perfectly preserved steam train – as it chugs through the Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave to Lakeside, Gembrook and Menzies Creek. It may not be the speediest journey (once a year you can actually race the train on foot – and win, if you're quick enough), but ol' Billy will take you through the lush forest setting in style. Puffing Billy offers a range of experiences, including a full-day journey to Lakeside or Gembrook, to shorter trips to Menzies Creek which comes with entry to the Menzies Creek Museum. The museum is home to over 80 exhibition pieces and gives visitors a glimpse of the past including rare operational railway artefacts. Don't miss the time-honoured tradition of dangling your arms and legs over the sills of the open carriage on a train ride. No matter how old you are, this is a thrill that's hard to top. To check the train timetable and book your spot, head to their site. All aboard! Check out our unofficial guide to Melbourne's best (and worst!) train stations.

If you're looking for a wellness hub that's tailormade for the future, you can't look past Therapy Wellness Center in Eltham.  Having freshly opened its doors in 2025, Therapy is a cutting-edge holistic health facility that hosts an impressive service menu, ranging from cryotherapy, neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen to sound healing, psychology, IV drips and EMDR therapy. This is definitely a level-up from sipping bad green tea and tepid spa water.  In keeping with the futuristic wellness theme, all treatments at Therapy are totally personalised to you through the centre's signature 'Brain-Body Diagonistic' service, meaning you can expect properly healing personal attention. Hop through Therapy for a series of avant garde treatments usually reserved for L.A. influencers, dine like a proboiotic-friendly queen at resident 'Therapy Kitchen' (where we're told gut-friendly meals, adaptogen elixirs and therapeutic teas are the mainstay) and generally invest in your wellness in a way you likely haven't before. It's definitely worth it.  Want more wellness and spa action in Melbourne? Here's our top picks. 

If you're a razor-sharp competitive at heart, or just really love sports, billiards and throwing darts while guzzling a coupla' cold ones, you can't go past Club9 in North Strathfield.  This epic sports bar has been generating waves for its array of a whopping 34 tournament-grade pool tables, two competition-level shuffleboards and four precision dart boards, providing a sporty haven for all kinds of game players.  Come for the fresh pizzas, craft beers and signature cocktails, and stay for a day (and night) of friendly competition with old mates, knowing that in this social space, you're bound to make some new ones.  It doesn't matter if you're a pro or just looking for a fun night out that involves more than just sitting round a table at a pub. Club9's got it all.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: These are the best pubs in Sydney right now. Get around the best things to do in Sydney this weekend.  

If you've ever wondered what would happen if a kid's drawing of their wildest dream utopia suddenly came off the page and into real life, you're in luck, because that's pretty much what's happening right now beneath the Art Gallery of NSW.  Artist and professional disruptor Mike Hewson has taken over the weird subterranean world of The Tank with his one-of-a-kind new exhibition, Mike Hewson: The Key's Under the Mat, where for the first time ever, all the main lights in the normally pitch-dark Tank will be switched on, revealing a weird wonderland of interactive art pieces and play equipment that have to be seen to be believed. We're talking: A steam room with stained glass windows that you can actually sit in, a functioning sauna with bespoke church pews, five actual operating public barbeques that you can cook on, rushing water to play in (seriously, bring your swimmers), a working laundry,  and a free-to-use recording studio, plus a whole plethora of bright and delightful surprises that are all about getting community together, to do cool stuff, for free. Basically, break your imagination and delete all adult expectations. This is unlike anything we've ever seen.  Kids who aren't afraid of some risk are also one of Hewson's big targets with this show (although parents, rest easy, the floor is specially made out of recycled soft rubber that's rated for use in public playgrounds), with the space also home to a wild children's playground. Intrepid kidlets can test their courag

  Sydneysiders from all over have been deeply devoted to this Enmore gem since 2010, and for good reason. Nowdays, they've got locations in the revamped Sydney Fish Markets and Wollongong, but Enmore is their OG stomping ground.  This family-run gelateria has won multiple awards and even more hearts for their consistently delicious and inventive gelatos and extravagant ice cream cake creations. Open from morning 'til late, Cow and the Moon is the perfect destination for a breakfast dessert, post-lunch pick-me-up or the starry highlight of an after dinner stroll on a balmy evening.  No matter whether you see yourself as a traditionalist or high brow ice cream connoisseur, Cow and the Moon have something perfect on deck, just for you. From a citrusy creamy yuzu white chocolate to a Neopolitian ice cream cake inspired by retro days of old, you're in for a vivid array of fruity sorbets, creamy concoctions and striking frozen treats that'll make your day just that little bit better.  While you're at it, check out our guide to the best food in Enmore. 

In this age of rapid development, it's never been so important to appreciate and hold onto the gems of the past. Petersham Bowling Club is one such gem.  Established way back in 1897, the folks at Petersham Bowlo have been slinging quality local and emerging music acts, a micro-brew bar line up, wholesome bistro grub and nostalgic lawn bowls in the same, dependable way since 2007. Also, you won't find any pokies here.  Hyper local, this beloved community stalwart has been a watering hole for Sydney's Inner West crowd for decades, with their shiniest light being their commitment to spotlighting live music acts from our city's emerging stars.  Sip a cold one in the sun, listen to live tunes and comfortably kick back inside a pub whose decor hasn't (thankfully) changed in 50 years. You won't regret it.  Want more? Check out our guide to Sydney's best live music venues.

The Hilton Darwin is (like Hiltons everywhere) a bougie white space full of luxe hotel finishes that will work for you if you like high-end living. In primo location smack-bang in the middle of Darwin city, the Hilton offers an open-air pool (a necessity when holidaying in the tropical locale), 233 spacious rooms and suites, silky robes and stretching ocean views across Darwin's azure harbour. For all those who like the bougie side, this one's for you. And it doesn’t stop there. Hilton Darwin is home to one of the best restaurants in the city, PepperBerry. The award-winning eatery brings native ingredients to the forefront of its mod-Oz offerings, thus attracting holiday-makers and locals alike to flashy hotel. Follow it up with a fine wine at the very plush Palm Court Bar and Lounge – you never know who you might run into. But if escaping your hotel’s confines is a high priority, Hilton Darwin’s location couldn't be more central to the town’s buzz, with Smith Street Mall a mere two-minute walk from the lobby. Time Out tip: Whether you’re settling for a guest room or executive suite, radiating oceanic vistas will delight. Book a west-facing room if you want to catch one of the best sunsets in Australia. Address: 32 Mitchell Street, Darwin Price: From $167 per night Closest Transport: Bus at Mitchell Street Hilton Hotel (Stop ID: 179) RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Darwin

In exciting news for Canberran thespians and culture vultures everywhere, the grand design for the incoming Canberra Lyric Theatre has just been made public. And, it looks pretty bloody good.  The ACT Government has allocated $28 million to the design and enabling works for a state-of-the-art new Lyric Theatre that will be added to the existing Canberra Theatre Centre precinct. This epic cultural venue was designed through a collaboration between COX Architecture, First Nations designer Yerrabingin, Charcoal Blue theatre consultants and Arcadia Landscape Architecture, with construction underway from November 2025. After extensive engagement with First Nations, LGBTQIA+ and local community groups, this reimagined theatre has Country and community rooted firmly at its innermost heart. The theatre is slated to become a living extension of Country, blending all of Canberra's diverse worlds and peoples together into one dynamic physical space.   Photograph: Supplied | COXCanberra Lyric Theatre render “As a project of national significance, it was vital that the design harmonise with Canberra’s civic fabric while also affirming the role of cultural infrastructure in shaping a shared identity – one that’s shaped by our First Nations heritage as well as the diversity of contemporary Australia", said Joe Agius, COX director and project lead.  The soaring and sculpted architectural design is set to be a totally sustainable, Green Star build that has been carefully crafted to frame v

Australia is home to the world’s oldest living and continuous culture. First Nations people have been vital custodians and inhabitants of Australia for millennia, with Indigenous Australians tracing their lineage and culture back multiple thousands of years.  It's long been believed that the ancestors of today's Indigenous Australians, the Sahul people, first reached the continent around 65,000 years ago. However, a new genetic study from the University of Utah suggests their arrival may have been more recent – around 50,000 years. The research conducted by Jim Allen, an Australian professor of archaeology at La Trobe University, and James F. O’Connell, a professor of anthropology at the University of Utah, re-analysed archeological sites and existing Neanderthal DNA in modern humans. Their findings indicate that the Sahul people most likely arrived by sea between 43,500 and 51,500 years ago. This conclusion is supported by evidence that all modern humans, including Indigenous Australians, carry one to four per cent Neanderthal DNA from a single interbreeding event with Neanderthals during that period. Archaeological evidence also aligns with this later timeline: most sites across Australia date to between 43,000 and 54,000 years ago, reinforcing the idea that the first human settlement occurred more recently than previously thought.  Photograph: Tourism NT | @betsybiglapUbirr The exact number of years that humans arrived in Australia has long been subject to scientific de

For most living things on the planet, seasons are kind of a big deal. They've marked the way Earth’s many inhabitants have lived their lives for millennia. Up until recently, scientists have taken it as a given that seasons = consistent, universal and home to distinct growing periods that we all benefit from.  But, after scientists have had a (lengthy) squiz at Earth from space, it turns out it isn’t as simple as it seems — and South Australia is in the hot seat.  A new study released by Nature Journal has revealed that there are certain parts of the world where seasons dramatically differ between locations that are just several kilometres apart, generating major ecological consequences for humans, animals and plants alike. This is called 'seasonal asynchrony'.  After studying 20 years' worth of satellite footage, scientists have successfully tracked two decades' worth of seasonal progression across the globe – a thing that's known to the science world as 'phenology', and to most humans, the simple turning of seasons. After gazing down at the Earth from space, the researchers discovered there are certain 'hot spots' spread across the world where seasons are out of sync in a fairly dramatic way.  Photograph: Grebenkov via Wikimedia Commons They found that this is the case across five of Earth’s Mediterranean climate regions, one of which is found in Australia. Although the name conjures up visions of Greek wine and pasta, the Mediterranean moniker is for climates where winte

If you're a fan of trippy, immersive experiences, you're probably also going to be a fan of the Museum of Illusions, a magical place that's home to mind-bending rooms, strange optical illusions and bizarre holograms that make you question reality in the most delightful way possible.  With more than 60 locations in 28 countries around the world, the Museum of Illusions has been a roaring, global success since its inception in 2015. And now for the first time ever, it's coming to Australia. To Sydney's CBD, to be totally exact.  With a brand-new George Street location that will span 9,000 feet, Aussie magic-seekers will get the chance to dance through a wild set of 80 interactive exhibitions come December.  Museum of IllusionsMuseum of Illusions What's inside Sydney's Museum of Illusions?  We've got it on good authority that you'll find some pretty amazing treasures inside the Museum's mysterious walls. From gravity defying rooms and gigantic 3D illusions to weird holograms, it's clear this is a museum experience that'll excite most folks, from curious kids to museum-loving adults.  Excitingly, the very first Australian edition of the Museum of Illusions will also house bespoke Sydney and Aussie-inspired rooms and features that you won't (obviously) be able to see anywhere else on the planet.  This includes the 'Reversed Room', an immersive space inspired by a classic Australian pub, the 'Building Illusion' that's designed to reflect some of Sydney's most iconic architecture,

In exciting news for the many residents that live around Moore Park, the Minns Labor Government has revealed a plan to transform Moore Park Golf Course into a whopping 20-hectare public park, community green space and golf course. Staged openings will commence before the end of 2026, with work expected to be completed in late 2028. At its core, this development is designed to be a vast, green backyard for one of Sydney’s most populous regions. Estimates show that by 2041, the population within 5km of the new park will rise to around 790,000, making Moore Park South one of Australia’s most densely populated spots – driving the need for public green space that can match this projected growth. Paul Scully, the minister for planning and public spaces said: “Delivering Moore Park South is about creating a backyard for the thousands of current and future residents living in one of the densest communities in Australia. Improving access to green open spaces has a direct link to improved physical and mental health outcomes for our communities so we must continue to pair homes with investments in our public spaces," he added. Paul Scully | Moore Park SouthArtist Render of Moore Park South Supported by a $50-million investment, Sydneysiders can expect to frolic through a new community sports field, enjoy public running, walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, a 9-hole public golf course, 90-bay driving range, a mini putt-putt range, plus a whole lot more. Right now though, the park

It's not every day that Adelaide becomes home to world-famous pieces of priceless art, but come July 2026, things are changing. For the first time ever, Australians will get the chance to see 57 incredible paintings by giants of American and European art in the 19th and 20th centuries on home soil. We're talking the likes of Monet, Matisse, Van Gogh, Degas, Cezanne and Picasso, plus many prolific others, all coming together in one mammoth exhibition at the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA).  Titled: Monet to Matisse: Defying Tradition, this wild exhibition will showcase works that usually live at the Toledo Museum of Art in Ohio, charting the development of modern art in Europe and North America. Starting at the beginning of the 20th Century, art-gazers will get to feast their eyes on a striking visual story showing the evolution of art as we know it, from the early days of Impressionism, Cubism and Surrealism, all the way through to Abstract Expressionism.  You can expect to see masterworks including Vincent Van Gogh's 'Wheat Fields with Reaper', Claude Monet's wildly famous 'Water Lilies' and Henri Matisse's 'Dancer Resting', amongst many others. Photograph: Supplied | Toldeo Museum of Art | 'Water Lilies' by Claude Monet c.1922 Excitingly posted to warm up winter in 2026, this exhibition will kick-start a series of major, arty moments for Adelaide over the winter months until 2029, known as the AGSA Winter Art Series, with people all over South Australia getting exc

It's a truth universally acknowledged that NSW is home to some bloody good wine, and after the 2025 NSW Wine Awards that just went down, it's more clear than ever.   For everyone who likes a good drop, you'll be pleased to know that NSW's extensive wine community recently gathered together at the ICC Sydney for a big, splashy night of wine awards that were all about turning the spotlight onto the very best of NSW's winemakers.  A whopping 21 trophies were handed out to 13 different wineries, with wines from five different regions taking home prizes. Orange and the Canberra district were awarded five each, Riverina got two and Mudgee went home with one, but the top dogs in 2025 were unequivocally the Hunter Valley, taking home a wild eight trophies on the night.  The Hunter Valley has long been lauded as one of Australia's greatest wine regions, and on brand, it was the Hunter's own First Creek Wines who was awarded the top prize in 2025.  Photograph: Avril Treasure So, what's NSW's best wine, you may ask? None other than the 2023 Single Vineyard Wills Hill Road Chardonnay, created by First Creek Wines – a family-owned and operated winery in Pokolbin – led by the current 2025 Halliday Winemaker of the Year, Liz Silkman. This drop was received enormously well, with wine chair judge Adam Walls describing this chardy as “standing alongside the best Chardonnays in Australia and one that captures all that is great about modern-day NSW Chardonnay". High praise indeed. First Creek

In breaking news, beloved national treasure Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park has just been selected by National Geographic as one of the best places to visit in the world in 2026, making it the only Australian mention in the well-renowned list.  In their annual Best of the World feature, National Geographic's team of editors, photographers and travel writers thoughtfully pull together the most colourful, obscure and dreamy destinations across the globe that they think are worth exploring in the new year. For 2026, the list is popping with wild and far-flung destinations from every corner of the planet, all the way from a sperm whale reserve in Dominica to the Black Sea Coast in Turkey.  In exciting news for Australians, our very own magnificent Uluru made the cut – and we're obviously not surprised. Chosen by National Geographic because of its immense Indigenous significance and ability to viscerally connect you with the world's oldest living culture, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa is a unique and deeply special place that has been sacred to the Anangu people for at least 30,000 years.   Photograph: Supplied | Tourism Australia Adding to the excitement, in 2026, visitors will get the first-ever chance to sleep inside the national park overnight. While people have always been able to camp *near* Uluru, it's been heavily prohibited to pitch a tent within the park bounds. Now, through a collaboration between Anangu Traditional Owners and Tasmanian Walking Company, there's an amazing opportuni

In case you’ve been living under a rock (or couch surfing because the housing market is insane), nailing down a place to live in Sydney is notoriously hellish. But for the first time in what feels like forever, Sydney renters have something to celebrate: rental price increases for both houses and units have finally stalled. According to Domain’s September 2025 Rental Report, for the first time in six years, Sydney’s house rents haven’t risen for five straight quarters. This is the longest period of stability Sydney’s seen in almost a decade, with the average weekly house rent price holding strong at $780 since June 2025. This is just a $10 increase from the average price of $770 in September 2024.  The September 2025 report reveals that although rents remain at record levels across most capital cities, growth has plateaued, with year-on-year growth slowing to 3.2 per cent – the weakest since 2021.  While house rents were the first to stabilise, unit rents are finally catching up, with the median Sydney unit rental price sitting at $750 per week. However unlike Melbourne and Adelaide where rent costs have totally flattened, Sydney apartments are still seeing minor quarterly increases.  Despite this good news, it’s clear to anyone renting in Sydney right now that the housing affordability crisis is far from over, with Sydney continuing to take the lead as the most expensive place to rent in Australia.  For comparison, this is how Sydney compares to the rest of the nation. How m

When it comes to Sydney’s housing affordability crisis, things tend to get contentious.  Whether you’re feeling worn out by Saturday mornings spent traipsing around dingy apartments with rents that make you want to cry, given up on the dream of ever buying because you can barely afford a car spot, or, as some members of the Inner West community are feeling, enraged at the prospect of your neighbourhood changing forever because of a major new development, you can probably agree on one thing: Sydney’s housing situation is less than ideal.  In an effort to address this, Inner West Council recently passed ‘Our Fairer Future’ plan, which aims to deliver 20,000 to 30,000 new homes to the Inner West over the next 15 years. This decision was met with significant community backlash in the Inner West, with local residents concerned that the ‘Fairer Future Plan’ would eradicate a sense of community, hurt heritage institutions and businesses, and fail to provide adequate green and park space.  As a result of the community protests, the plan underwent significant amendments, with the most notable being the reduction of 5,000 proposed homes in Marrickville, Dulwich Hill and Ashfield.  Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne noted that some of those homes would be redistributed to the Parramatta Road corridor, which will accept a total of 8,000 new homes as part of a partnership between the Council and the NSW Government. Photograph: Wikimedia Commons | Bidgee “Our Fairer Future Plan will stop the e

Attention celestial sighting enthusiasts! May has an exciting spectacle in store for stargazers. Melbourne's skies are set to sparkle with a super bright meteor shower called Eta Aquarid, described as “the second best meteor shower of the year for Australian sky watchers” by astronomy experts. The annual meteor shower – which is formed from debris from Halley’s comet – will light up the sky above Australia this week, peaking in the early hours of Wednesday, May 7. The Eta Aquarid shower is a fast-moving and notoriously unpredictable show, with their high speed also making them appear brighter to the naked eye.  If you're keen to see these scintillating sights for yourself, here's what you need to know.  How can I see the Eta Aquarids meteor shower from Melbourne?  Melbourne stargazers will have their best chance at seeing the Eta Aquarids between 2am and 5.40am local time from Monday, May 5 to Wednesday, May 7. The meteor shower is set to reach its maximum around 2am on May 7. The best way to see them is to scan the northern horizon near the point of the Aquarius constellation, where the meteors are set to emerge from. You’ll know you’re looking in the right place if you're looking at a spot where there's not much else to see except Saturn, which will also be particularly bright. Importantly, you'll need a cloud-free sky and quite a lot of patience, as meteor sightings can be quite sporadic.  When will the Eta Aquarids meteor shower be at its peak? Though the meteor shower i

Cancel your plans and beeline for the east. After years of delays, one of Sydney's most beautiful harbour beaches has finally reopened to the public. Sitting on the edge of national parkland on the banks of Sydney’s sparkling harbour, Shark Beach at Nielsen Park has long been one of the Eastern Suburb’s most treasured swimming spots. But since March 2022 it has been tightly closed to the public, inciting mass frustration among locals who desperately want to dive back into their favourite turquoise cove as warmer days approach.   In glorious news for swimmers, the stunning harbour cove – and its onsite café – has just reopened.  Photograph: Supplied | NSW National Parks and Wildlife Getting to this point of completion hasn’t been as easy ride. Reconstruction work was originally meant to be completed by December, 2022 – but the wettest Sydney year on record, contractual delays and the discovery (and removal) of a hefty 3,600 tonnes of asbestos put big delays on progress. The construction work that’s been taking place over the past few years has involved improving accessibility to the beach – with a new wheelchair accessible pedestrian ramp and a separate ramp to allow maintenance vehicle access to the beach, plus additional seating along the promenade. The sea wall was raised by 50 centimetres, with wave deflectors integrated to protect the park  (and recently renovated kiosk) from sea level changes. Now, the beach is back welcoming visitors, though we expect these first few