Rebecca Russo is Time Out's former Editor of Time Out Melbourne.

Rebecca Russo

Rebecca Russo

Editor of Time Out Melbourne

Articles (167)

The 10 best luxury hotels in Melbourne

The 10 best luxury hotels in Melbourne

Think a city as trendy as Melbourne doesn't have much to offer in the way of luxury? Think again. The luxury hotels in Melbourne are some of the best you'll find in the realm of non-extortionate, with award-winning international buffets, pools overlooking the Yarra River, and bookable private workout rooms. From old-world glamour to cutting-edge modern marvels, you're sure to find a suite to suit your aesthetic.  While you're planning your high-rolling retreat, it's also worth booking a table at one of the city's finest restaurants and fitting a shopping trip into your schedule. All that'll be left to do is choose where to spend the night. Take a look at our pick of the best luxury hotels in Melbourne, Australia. RECOMMENDED:🏨 The best boutique hotels in Melbourne 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Melbourne 📍 Our guide to Melbourne's best neighbourhoods🖼️ Melbourne's art and gallery guide  This guide was curated by Melbourne-based lifestyle editor, Adena Maier. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Melbourne tourist attractions and places to visit that don't suck

Melbourne tourist attractions and places to visit that don't suck

When you live in a city, you tend to avoid the popular tourist traps and attractions in favour of things that are off the beaten path like hidden bars or secret gardens. And while a lot of tourist attractions are simply money sinks, many of them are popular with visitors for a reason.  That's why we've rounded up 27 experiences that we think are actually worth your while and showcase the best that Melbourne has to offer.  For more inspo, work on your bucket list with 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die, or munch your way through the city with the 50 best restaurants in Melbourne.

Shopper's guide to Gertrude Street

Shopper's guide to Gertrude Street

Gertrude Street is the small street that links Fitzroy and Collingwood, and while it may seem unassuming it's filled with lots of fun independent stores. Within its one-kilometre span, you'll find everything from eclectic homewares to locally made prints to put in your home. Make some time to check out this microcosm that combines the best of the inner north.  Become an expert on Melbourne's best strips with our shopper's guides to Chapel Street and Bridge Road.

The 23 most majestic waterfalls in Australia

The 23 most majestic waterfalls in Australia

Australia is home to thousands of very special waterfalls that we reckon everyone should go and chase at least once. However, if you don't have endless waterfall-seekin' time on hand, we understand. To make things easier, we've picked out the most incredible waterfalls that you should visit in Australia in your lifetime. Whether it's marvelling at a thundering plume of water that's hundreds of meters tall, frolicking beneath a silver sparkly cascade, or getting a free shoulder massage in the middle of the wilderness, we can promise that you won't be bored.  Now all you've got to do is blast some TLC and hit the road.  Want more like this? Check out the 15 dreamiest natural hot springs Down Under.

Use this interactive map to avoid magpie attacks this spring

Use this interactive map to avoid magpie attacks this spring

Question: what do you think is the average Australian’s biggest fear come spring? Is it the imminent onslaught of pollen about to hit our nostrils? The realisation that it’s already three-quarters of the way through the year and we haven’t made a dint on those New Year’s resolutions? Or maybe, just maybe, it’s the fact that aggressive, dive-bombing magpies have it out for the tops of our unsuspecting heads this time of year. Yep, welcome to magpie swooping season, my friends. Swooping season kicks into gear from late August to early October, which coincidentally ties into magpie breeding season. Because of this they’re ferociously protective of their nests and will stop at nothing to ward off any unsuspecting passers-by. Avoiding swooping has become quite the art form – pedestrians have turned to putting cut-out eyes on the back of their hats and cyclists have thrown a couple spikes in their helmets to deter belligerent birds. It’s madness. But is there another way to avoid magpie attacks? Well, it helps to have an ally by your side. Case in point: this website devoted to tracking magpies around town. Magpie Attack asks users to record magpie swoops on a map in an effort to pre-warn others about dangerous birds in their area. You can input your location, the date/time, what activity was taking place and whether an injury resulted. As well as the comprehensive attack maps, Magpie Attack’s blog features stories of survival (“I faced off against the M7 magpie and won!”), tips on

Where to see the Aurora Australis in Melbourne

Where to see the Aurora Australis in Melbourne

People bang on about the Northern Lights a lot, and who could blame them? The Aurora Borealis, a natural light display that happens in the Earth’s sky, is pretty spectacular. But you don’t have to head to Scandinavia to see this dramatic light display IRL. Australia has its own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. OK then, what gives? Why aren’t the Southern Lights as popular as the Northern Lights? Well, it’s got a lot to do with land. In the north around the Arctic Circle, you’ll be able to see the Aurora Borealis from Greenland, Iceland, northern Canada, Norway and Russia. But due to the location of land down south, there are fewer places that reach down low enough to Antarctica to offer good Southern Lights viewing spots – it’s mostly just water. But if you’re not keen on stealing a ship and setting sail for the ocean past Tasmania, there are some less tricky viewing spots. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Melbourne (@timeoutmelbourne) Where can I see the Aurora Australis in Melbourne? Your best chance at witnessing the Aurora Australis is to be as far south as possible. Tasmania is the obvious choice, and you’ll want to aim for places away from city lights. Mount Wellington, Bruny Island, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the Huon Valley, the Central Highlands and Tasmania’s South Arm all offer great horizon views down south. Photograph: seabirdnz/Flickr But it’s not all bad news for mainland dwellers:

The best national parks to visit in Victoria

The best national parks to visit in Victoria

Craving an out-of-town adventure to get off the grid? Jump in the car and drive out to one of these stunning national parks in Victoria. If you can only fit in a day trip, we've put together a few options that are just an hour or two from the CBD – and if you're after a true blue road trip, we've also thrown in some destinations up to seven hours away. Pack your bags, put on that road trip playlist that has all the best singalongs and hit the road in search of Victoria's most beautiful natural landscapes.  Explore more of the state with these scenic Victorian drives or stretch your legs with the best day hikes near Melbourne.

Alternative Christmas party ideas in Melbourne

Alternative Christmas party ideas in Melbourne

The end of 2024 is nigh, and boy do we all deserve to blow off some steam. The December piss-up is a long-held Aussie tradition, but if you're looking to spice up your celebration this year, we've compiled a list of alternative Christmas party ideas to try. Grab your work buddies and give these a go.  Finish it off with a drink at one of Melbourne’s best rooftop bars before planning something to eat at these excellent restaurants.

14 unusual things you can only do in Melbourne

14 unusual things you can only do in Melbourne

They don't call us "marvellous Melbourne" for nothing, you know. Our city has more than a dozen attractions and experiences you can't find anywhere else, not to mention our one-of-a-kind residents (we have Carrot Man, need we say more?).  Many know Melbourne for the laneways and art galleries. Our affinity for coffee and incredible food also knows no bounds. But to really experience the best of Melbourne, we’d suggest hitting up some of the more unusual sites on this list. RECOMMENDED: 101 things everyone in Melbourne needs to do at least once.

The best secret gardens in Melbourne

The best secret gardens in Melbourne

It's safe to say we're all well-acquainted with our local green spaces, but now is the time to explore a bit further afield. Luckily there are lots of parks and gardens in Melbourne that are slightly off the beaten path. Here you'll find gardens devoted to Australian natives, fancy ferns and some not-so-ubiquitous plants like cacti, rhododendrons, tulips and lotuses – perfect for when you need some green in your life. Want more green? These national parks are within driving distance of Melbourne and here are the best parks in Melbourne's CBD. 

The 50 best things to do in Australia

The 50 best things to do in Australia

You know the landmarks and the laid-back culture, but there are plenty more things to do in  Australia than kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. Australia is a nature lover’s paradise, with highly sought-after food experiences and an impressive cultural heritage to boot. Whether you want to get amongst art parties in small coastal cities, see fairy penguins scurry across sandy beaches or watch the sunrise over Sydney Harbour from a kayak, there’s so much to explore across this incredible country. You’ll no doubt find something to inspire a holiday Down Under with our guide to all the best things you need to do right now in Australia. 🇦🇺 The top tourist attractions in Australia🌈 Australia's most beautiful destinations🌊 The best beaches in Australia

The 15 most incredible Indigenous experiences in Australia

The 15 most incredible Indigenous experiences in Australia

Looking for a travel adventure that goes beyond typical sightseeing? Combining wild, untouched landscapes with ancient history and fascinating culture, Australia’s Indigenous tourism experiences are hard to beat. Imagine trekking with Custodians through lush rainforest, swimming with dugongs in the Kimberley or seeing ancient stories light up the sky over Uluru. We've pulled together a list of eye-opening First Nations tours that will take you deep into Australia's most pristine landscapes, while teaching you about the world’s oldest living culture. Warning: they may change the way you view the land Down Under. 🏞 The best national parks in Australia☀️ The greatest experiences you can have Down Under😍 The most beautiful places to explore in Australia

Listings and reviews (100)

Mitchelton Winery

Mitchelton Winery

It’s clear we’ve all been sleeping on Nagambie. This small town, located in the serene Goulburn Valley, is only 90-minutes drive north of Melbourne and has a lot to offer for Melburnians seeking a tree change. Maybe the biggest drawcard is the beautiful Mitchelton Winery estate which, natch, boasts a cellar door and primo wine varietals, but also a swish hotel, restaurant and Indigenous art gallery.  The winery has been around since the late '60s, having developed a reputation for its riesling and shiraz varietals and picking up a few dozen awards over the years. It was in 2017 that the Mitchelton estate was developed into what we see today: a sprawling property on the banks of the Goulburn River, surrounded by grapevines and distinguished by the 55-metre tall tower that features on Mitchelton’s wine bottles.  Mitchelton is known for its production of high-quality shiraz and riesling wines that show off the Heathcote grapes that wine lovers know well. Visit the cellar door and you’ll be able to try six wines of your choosing, making your way from a buttery smooth chardonnay towards a fun sparkling shiraz or even a more intense, oak-y shiraz. The property is also home to a daytime providore for great coffee and snacks, as well as a restaurant, the Muse. The Muse focuses heavily on sustainability, only using seasonal produce from around the region and cooks most of its food on the in-house wood-fired grill and roasting pit. Get amongst this great cooking style by ordering the r

The Music Gym

The Music Gym

Learning a new instrument as an adult is a hard task. For one, instruments are hella expensive, meaning you often have to shell out a small fortune for something you’re not even sure you’ll be that good at. Enter: the Music Gym. The Music Gym is an initiative created by music teacher Catherine Prifti, with the idea of letting adults learn new skills in a convenient location where you can squeeze in a class during your lunch break, before or after work. Keen participants can sign up for voice, piano and guitar lessons at the Music Gym. Here you'll be able to learn basic skills (or brush up on old skills) with state-of-the-art instruments and expert teachers at your side. Group classes can be purchased at a casual one-off rate, or choose a 10-pack, 20-pack, or even a private lesson. You’ll find the Music Gym at Melbourne’s Galleria, at the intersection of Bourke, Elizabeth and Little Collins streets.

Zagame’s House

Zagame’s House

It’s fair to say Zagame’s Downtowner, a plain, somewhat daggy city-fringe hotel that has been hanging around the corner of Lygon and Queensberry streets since 2003, has had quite the glow up. Opened in May 2019 after an $18 million renovation, Zagame’s House is a chic addition to Melbourne’s boutique hotel scene and features all the plusses that make a staycation worth it: plush king-sized beds, velour armchairs, a rainfall shower, a decked-out minibar and minimalist Scandi furnishings that seem straight out of a Pinterest collection. If you dig a little deeper, you’ll realise it’s the small touches that make this place A grade. Rooms feature organic bath products from UK brand Cowshed, Marshall speakers you can connect to via Bluetooth and custom-lit bathroom mirrors that have different illumination settings for the perfect selfie. The hotel is wheelchair-accessible, and the late-night room service menu is all fancy toasties (think truffle cheese, meatballs or harissa chicken).  Zagame’s has probably one of the best-stocked minibars in town, by the way. There’s Espresso Martini in a can, beers from locals like Moon Dog Brewery, sodas from Bickford and Sons and hand-selected Everleigh Bottling Co, cocktails. If you're hungry, you can buy a selection of house-made sweet and savoury treats like gummy bears, raspberry twists and chocolate pretzels. Bored? There’s a pack of Uno cards on the menu, too, as well as a “lover’s kit”, which has condoms, lube and even a battery-operated

Adelphi Hotel

Adelphi Hotel

Located within a hulking 1938 building on the busy CBD hotspot that is Flinders Lane, the Adelphi Hotel is a nice landing spot for those who value edgy design, location and first-rate service. The Adelphi is a gorgeously styled boutique hotel, from its signature zig-zagged floor right down to the ubiquitous lolly jars in every room. Redesigned in 2013 by Hachem, the hotel might not be as sophisticated as its neighbouring Westin Hotel, but that lack of stuffiness works to Adelphi’s advantage, especially considering you’re sharing walls with some of the city’s hottest restaurants. With only 34 rooms, the Adelphi can afford to be a little playful in design. Kitschy lamps, furry rugs and not-very-functional-but-still-cute couches line the corners of rooms, with the centrepiece king-sized bed a comfy standout. The brightly hued rooms also come with 40-inch flat screens (with unlimited movies), spacious bathrooms with rainfall showerheads and minibars full of free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.  Peckish? You're in luck. Staying at the Adelphi means you're seconds from Japanese diner Supernormal, the French-Vietnamese Coda and arguably the city's busiest restaurant, Chin Chin (if you don't mind the queues!). Downstairs at the Adelphi is also a sweet tooth's paradise thanks to Om Nom Dessert Restaurant. We’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about the rooftop. The Adelphi’s rooftop pool is probably one of the most photographed pools in Melbourne, thanks to its cantilevering glass bott

Urbnsurf

Urbnsurf

If you've bemoaned the fact that inner-city Melbourne doesn't have proper surfing beaches, this is for you. Head along to Australia's first inland surf park, Urbnsurf, located within spitting distance of Melbourne Airport in Tullamarine.  This inland wave pool is the first full-sized surfing lagoon to use Wavegarden technology. If that all sounds like gibberish, let us explain: the pool uses technology to create long, man-made waves in a closed environment. According to Urbnsurf, it's able to pump out up to 1,000 perfect, two-metre-high ocean-like surfing waves every hour.   The two-hectare surfing lagoon has areas customisable for all ages and abilities – so if you're not Layne Beachley just yet, you'll do just fine. The modular wave generator means that there can be different kinds of waves in different sections of the pool. Beginners can attend surfing lessons in the whitewash with friendly and talented surfing coaches while the pros can stick to the back with consistent waves above two metres tall.  Pro surfers will be pretty content with the quality of wave barrels at Urbnsurf. And while the backdrop of an airport isn't as atmospheric as the shores of Byron Bay, the most jarring difference here is the lack of sand. The pool isn't that deep (especially in the whitewash) so falling off or tumbling means you might scratch yourself on the concrete floor. But being able to play God like this with the frequency of waves means Urbnsurf has the capability to stop the waves comp

Fortress

Fortress

Are you ready to play? Fortress Melbourne is the southern hemisphere's largest video gaming and esports entertainment venue. It's located on the lower ground floor of Emporium Melbourne, and it's massive. No, really. The venue encompasses 2,700 square metres of space over two levels.  Inside you'll be able to experience some of the coolest games and newest technology from around the world. There's a 200-seat esports arena, plus 160 Alienware PCs, VIP game booths, streamer pods and tabletop and board game areas. There are also function spaces, a restaurant and two bars so you won't go hungry or thirsty.  The space is designed for gamers of all ages – and it's not just for the Fortnite fans. There's a range of games on offer including Mario Kart, Dota 2, Rainbow 6 and heaps more. The venue runs special board game nights on Wednesdays (including food and drink specials and free play) and always-popular beginner-friendly Dungeons and Dragons games on Sundays.  Fortress Melbourne is open daily. Walk-ins are welcome, but it's recommended to book.

iFly

iFly

Want to enjoy all the thrills of skydiving without actually leaping out of a plane? An indoor skydiving experience called iFly might be for you. Imagine a specially designed wind tunnel that’s been turned upright so that the air travels upwards. Now picture yourself caught in that powerful updraft. This is indoor skydiving. It’s a concept used by the skydiving community to practice their free-fall technique. It really does feel like you’re suspended in mid-air, thanks to this giant propeller blasting air. It’s loud, as you can imagine, but also extremely safe, because you’re never more than a few metres from the ground. IFly has been around the world (including the US, UK, France, Dubai, Brazil, Canada, New Zealand and Singapore) for over 20 years now, and this is the brand’s second Australian outpost. Anyone aged three and up can try it and prices start at $79.95 per person. 

W Melbourne

W Melbourne

For a taste of inner-city luxury, you can’t go past W Melbourne. The hotel, which opened in February of 2021, packs 294 guest rooms, 29 suites, a secret bar, a premium restaurant and a sexy top-floor pool into its Flinders Lane digs – and still manages to feel boutique rather than behemoth.  Every detail at the W Melbourne has been carefully considered, meticulously placed and kept affectionately local. Its design takes inspiration from Melbourne’s laneway culture, with little nods to our city throughout the venue. From the wardrobes that look remarkably like Melbourne’s streetside kiosks to the street art-style artworks of a female affectionately called “Mel” that adorn many of the hotel’s walls, you can tell this is a hotel that likes to have a bit of fun.  And with the kind of rooms the W is offering, you'll probably have a bit of fun as well. Floor-to-ceiling windows feature in every room, as do colourful fixtures, Foxtel channels and king beds that lure you into a content slumber. But it’s the bathrooms that really impress: each room is fixed with a Japanese Toto toilet (yes, the ones with a bidet and heated seats!). The remainder of the bathroom is equally as fabulous, with luxe Davines bath amenities on hand to keep you smelling delightful.  There’s a fitness centre on level 14 alongside what might be the cherry on top of this entire hotel: a gorgeous, gold-roofed indoor pool with a poolside bar and a DJ booth. The pool is pleasantly warm and accessible 24/7 (just be w

Corked Wine Bar

Corked Wine Bar

After years of climbing through closets and wandering down dark corridors to find new and exciting hidden bars, you’d think Melburnians would have seen it all. But rest assured, there are still secrets out in the suburbs.  In Melbourne’s west, Corked Wine Bar opened its secret sliding door in 2021, offering a casual atmosphere for the folks of Werribee to drink wine and chill out on Watton Street.  Finding the venue is half the fun. Enter the seemingly innocuous apartment building corridor near pizza joint Teddy Picker and turn right to find the wooden wine bottle wall. There’s a hidden button on the wall you’ll need to find – press it and slide the door open.  The low ceilings and dimmed lights make this spot ultra cosy, with the main bar located at the centre of the room. Settle in one of the many side tables, or on the red velvet couch near the fire. If the weather’s warm enough, head outside towards the backyard courtyard that overlooks the leafy Werribee River. The wine list is what you’ll be seeking out first – in it, you’ll find a robust collection of international fine wines, many from Italy and Germany, and drops from local vineyards in the King and Yarra Valleys. To complement the wine, there are share plates like smoked barramundi arancini, duck fat potatoes and fried calamari, as well as charcuterie and cheese boards. Two desserts, a dark chocolate mousse and a limoncello panna cotta, will tide over the dessert hounds.  Corked Wine Bar is open from 5pm on Wednesda

Shadowfax Wines

Shadowfax Wines

Want the full boutique-winery experience just a stone's throw from Melbourne? Hop on over to Werribee's Shadowfax Wines.  Part of the Werribee Park precinct (it’s only a short walk away from Werribee Park Mansion), it's the closest vineyard to Melbourne's CBD, and it's got a fine selection of varietals to boot.  Shadowfax's chief winemaker, Alister Timms, has a hyper-local focus: he keeps things grounded in the essence of Werribee Park and its regional surrounds with vineyards in the Macedon Ranges and Werribee and sources from small growers in Geelong. The wines have distinct personalities, developed through the specific combination of a vineyard's soil, weather and the grapes cultivated there.  Against the lush vineyards, Shadowfax's rusted sheet-metal facade is striking – and once inside, visitors can poke their heads underground, descending down an orange spiral staircase to visit the barrel hall and uncover the cavern's winemaking secrets. Another secret that's not so well kept? The winery is named after Shadowfax, the majestic chief of horses in The Lord of the Rings.  Shadowfax's cellar door and restaurant is open daily from 11am-5pm. It’s here you can get a taste of those premium wines and hear from the team’s brightest wine minds about what drop is best for what occasion. If you’re feeling peckish, settle in for a meal at the restaurant, where the team is serving up a Mediterranean-inspired menu that includes seafood linguine, roasted spatchcock, Werribee barramundi

The Refectory Parlour

The Refectory Parlour

On one side of the grand Werribee Mansion, you’ll find the Refectory Parlour. This venue is managed by award-winning caterers Bursaria Fine Foods, who are known for putting on stunning weddings across the Werribee Park precinct since 2015.  The Refectory currently offers more intimate dining experiences, including catered picnics in the delightful Rose Garden. The Refectory also offers an all-day outdoor dining menu served on the Werribee Mansion Terrace. If you’re just passing through and in need of a bite, settle down for a coffee and a slice of cake, or order one of the Refectory’s packed hampers. There’s a high tea hamper that comes with chicken ribbon sandwiches, Cornish pasties, scones and more high tea hits, or the Ploughman’s hamper with a wider selection of charcuterie items. We suggest enjoying your hamper out on the gorgeous grass area that surrounds Werribee Park.  For wedding and special occasion bookings, head to the Refectory’s website for more information.

Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens

Head to the scenic Fitzroy Gardens located amidst Melbourne’s busy cityscape. Take a stroll around the park and take in the natural landscape and historic sights, which are located throughout the gardens. Heritage highlights include Captain Cook’s 1755 family home uprooted from Yorkshire and re-assembled here in the 1930s, a conservatory, and a collection of similarly strange fountains, statues, memorials and follies accumulated over the park’s 150 years. A model Tudor Village is located in the middle of the gardens, created by London pensioner Edgar Wilson back in the 1940s. This miniature village is a replica of a typical Kentish village built during England's Tudor period. It was unveiled in Fitzroy Gardens by the lord mayor in 1948.   The park is blissfully underused, especially on the weekends. You can always find a secluded spot from which to admire the avenues of mature elms and rare specimen trees from the 19th century. Fitzroy Garden's star attraction? That's gotta be the conservatory. This Spanish Mission-style conservatory was opened way back in March 1930. It currently exhibits five floral displays annually, meaning it’s in full bloom all year round with a mix of hydrangeas, fuchsias, begonias, cyclamens and calceolarias all making an appearance at some point. Pro tip: make sure your nasal passages are clear – the smell is incredible.

News (592)

This interactive map will help you avoid magpie attacks in Sydney this swooping season

This interactive map will help you avoid magpie attacks in Sydney this swooping season

Question: what do you think is the average Sydneysider's biggest fear come springtime? Is it the imminent onslaught of pollen about to hit our nostrils? The realisation that it’s already three-quarters of the way through the year and we haven’t made a dint on those new year’s resolutions? Or maybe, just maybe, it’s the fact that aggressive, dive-bombing magpies have it out for the tops of our unsuspecting heads this time of year.  Yep, welcome to magpie swooping season, my friends. When is magpie swooping season in Sydney? Swooping season kicks into gear from late August to early October, which coincidentally ties into magpie breeding season. Because of this they’re ferociously protective of their nests and will stop at nothing to ward off any suspecting passers-by.   Why do magpies swoop? Cyclists and runners (aka anything moderately-sized and fast-moving) are prime targets for the six to eight weeks when the daring black-and-white birds build nests, incubate eggs and raise their young. They’ll stop at nothing to protect their chicks from suspecting passers-by, even if it ends in a bloody gash or swollen eye.  In good news, only eight to ten per cent of magpies actually swoop people. Even rarer are dive bombs that cause injury rather than just scaring you off. How to stop magpies swooping? Should you ever stumble into a flappy face-off, then be sure to walk calmly and briskly through the magpie’s turf. Gear up with shades, a hat, a helmet and an umbrella shield if you have

The seven coolest showbags at the Royal Melbourne Show

The seven coolest showbags at the Royal Melbourne Show

Some come to the Royal Melbourne Show for the rides, others come to marvel at the award-winning cakes, the woodchoppers, the pavilions filled with baby animals and champion dogs… or maybe we’re all just united in a mutual love of showbags. If you have a love for the latter, we’ve picked out the best showbags to choose from when you visit — there's more than 395 different ones this year, so it's quite a difficult decision!    Bertie Beetle 60th Birthday Bag Cost? $18What’s inside? 20 Bertie Beetles choccies, plus your choice of a Bertie Beetle Helicopter Cap or a set of two Bertie Beetle Ceramic Egg Cups. (Retail value: $34)  Why should you get it? It’s a special edition version of the beloved $5 OG showbag, and who doesn't love a helicopter hat?  Bluey showbag Cost? $32What’s inside? A Bluey headband, Bluey backpack, Bluey bucket hat, Bluey silly straws, Bluey sticker pad, Bluey bag, Bluey tumbler and Bluey colouring pad. (Retail value: $76.55)      Why should you get it? Bluey is Australia's pride and joy right now, so if you have a little one (or anyone) in your life who is a big fan, this is sure to win you some brownie points.  Matildas showbag  Cost? $30What’s inside? Matildas Soccer Ball, Matildas Wrist Band, Matildas Drink Bottle, Matildas Keyring, Matildas Scarf and Matildas Bag. (Retail value: $92.82)Why should you get it? While the Women's World Cup may be all done and dusted, that doesn't mean you can't show your 'Tillies pride!  Rural Aid showbag  Cost? $1

The 22 ways to not be a dick as a pedestrian in Melbourne

The 22 ways to not be a dick as a pedestrian in Melbourne

We know there are some great unspoken rules of using public transport in Melbourne, but it's time we address those on the pavement, too. We all have to get around this city somehow, so let's not make it harder for everyone else. These are the things all good Melbourne pedestrians should know: 1. Look up from your phone as you cross the road.2. If you’re walking during peak hour, walk with purpose (especially when you’re heading towards Flinders Street after 5pm).3. Swanston Street is always a busy thoroughfare – don't get annoyed if you can't move as fast as you'd like. Go down a side street if you're desperate. 4. If you’re exiting a shop on a busy street like Swanston or Elizabeth Street, look both ways before entering the footpath.5. If it’s raining and you have an umbrella, please take down your umbrella when going under covered walkways. 6. Be aware of where your umbrella falls in regards to other people’s faces – learn the umbrella lift.7. Trams have right of way, so do your best to avoid getting ding-ed.8. If you can see someone is running to get to a tram, get out of their way.9. If you’ve got big bags, maybe don’t walk down Melbourne’s skinniest laneways? 10. Don’t walk four people in a row on the sidewalk. Two max!11. Don’t walk two abreast down Little Bourke Street in Chinatown. There’s just not enough room.12. Don’t stop in the middle of the footpath, PLEASE. Move to the side. 13. If you realise you’re going the wrong way, don’t stop suddenly and cause a three-pe

You can get clothing that looks like Melbourne’s trams and trains

You can get clothing that looks like Melbourne’s trams and trains

If you’re the type of Melburnian who’s thought, “Gee, that seat pattern is not at all obnoxiously colourful and feels like an ancient velour carpet,” then boy have we got something for you. We’ve stumbled upon a series of clothing options for the Melburnian who likes to prove to everyone around them that they are, in fact, a public transport lover.  There are these green socks that resemble the seat pattern on a Yarra Trams vehicle. You can pick yours up when you purchase this card game about Melbourne public transport, Touched On.  There’s also the Yarra Trams T-shirt which, thankfully, is made of cotton and not that horrific soiled fabric we know and...er… love. Our personal favourite is this Connex T-shirt that looks like the pattern found on many Melbourne trams. Wear it onboard and you might even blend into the surroundings. Who says all Melburnians have to wear black?  But, actually, all Melburnians do wear black – we found out why.

These are the oldest recorded photos of Melbourne

These are the oldest recorded photos of Melbourne

Melbourne sure has come a long way. Back before settlers arrived in the 19th century, Indigenous Australians had already lived on Naarm for around 31,000 to 40,000 years. Where our city centre now lies was an important meeting place for the five groups of the Kulin nation, including the Woiwurrung, Boonwurrung and Wathaurong people. Thanks to the central Yarra River, or Birrarung, it was an important place for groups to meet and source food and water. These days, Melbourne is still a hub for food, drink and entertainment – albeit a little more built up. With the help of the team at the State Library of Victoria, we managed to track down some of the earliest recorded photographs of Melbourne. Photograph: State Library of VictoriaView of Swanston Street looking north from Collins Street. This first one shows Swanston Street looking north from Collins Street. It was taken in 1858, but not much else is known about the photograph or who took it. Photograph: State Library of VictoriaBourke Street looking west from Spring Street. This one shows a much less crowded Bourke Street with a view west from Spring Street. It was also taken in 1858. Photograph: State Library of VictoriaThe Yarra River below the Falls. The last one is of the Yarra River in 1858. Its title is “The Yarra below the Falls”, which refers to an area near where the Old Customs House was beside the Yarra. It once had a set of cascades where saltwater from the ocean met the freshwater of the river. It had rock

Fireball is now selling a 3.5-litre “firebox” goon bag of whisky

Fireball is now selling a 3.5-litre “firebox” goon bag of whisky

We’re all familiar with Fireball Whisky, the cinnamon-flavoured party starter. Well, you’re about to become even more intimately familiar with the classic whisky brand. This festive season Fireball has released a 3.5-litre firebox cask, which is essentially two 1.75-litre Fireball goon bags. If we break the numbers down, that’s over 100 30-millilitre shots (with two taps to dispense). Good lord.  These limited-edition boxes are available online through Booze Bud and in select alcohol retailers. It’ll set you back $224.99.  Looking for more booze? Here are the best boozy advent calendars to try.

You can now play Cluedo at the Old Melbourne Gaol

You can now play Cluedo at the Old Melbourne Gaol

If being in lockdown for months has taught us anything, it’s that people love a conspiracy. Now, Melburnians can put their sleuthing skills to the test. For a limited time, the Old Melbourne Gaol is hosting a real-life game of Cluedo which gets visitors to explore the venue and investigate a story using QR codes and physical evidence. You’ll study the alibis of criminals, scan weapons for DNA and hopefully catch the culprit. Photograph: James Thomas/Supplied Ready to immerse yourself in a good old-fashioned game of whodunnit? The Cluedo booklet is $5, in addition to the general admission cost $30 per adult or $17 per child. The game runs from 10am to 5m Wednesday to Sundays. Learn more at Old Melbourne Gaol's website. Galleries are reopening in Melbourne and here’s what they’re showing.

So what is considered metropolitan Melbourne?

So what is considered metropolitan Melbourne?

As of right now, only metropolitan Melbourne and Mildura are in lockdown, with the rest of regional Victoria under much less strict restrictions. Those in the regions can leave home for any reason and visit hospitality venues, while metropolitan Melbourne and Mildura remain locked down. Those in metro Melbourne will be permitted to travel to the regions once we hit 80 per cent vaccination, expected to be around November 1. But the term “metropolitan Melbourne” is a pretty broad term, what exactly does it cover?According to the government, metropolitan Melbourne “is the geographical area that defines Melbourne as a city and the capital of the state of Victoria”. There are 4.9 million people who live in the 9,990 square kilometres that metro Melbourne covers.  Metropolitan Melbourne is divided into 31 local government areas (LGAs). Those LGAs are: Banyule, Hume, Moreland, Bayside, Kingston, Mornington Peninsula, Boroondara, Knox, Nillumbik, Brimbank, Manningham, Port Phillip, Cardinia, Maribyrnong, Stonnington, Casey, Maroondah, Whitehorse, Darebin, Melbourne, Whittlesea, Frankston, Melton, Wyndham, Glen Eira, Monash, Yarra, Greater Dandenong, Moonee Valley, Yarra Ranges and Hobsons Bay.  All other LGAs in Victoria are classified as regional and are not under lockdown orders. The exception is the LGA of Mildura Shire, which continues under the same lockdown rules as Melbourne due to the outbreak there. If you’re confused as to what LGA you fall under, head to this website where

Use this handy map to see Melbourne exposure sites near you

Use this handy map to see Melbourne exposure sites near you

If you're looking for a location-based breakdown of coronavirus cases in Melbourne and Victoria, this handy app should help you. Covid19nearme is an unofficial website based on data available on the Victorian government website. While your first look should be at the government's website, which is updated according to health department information and contact tracers, covid19nearme does give users a visual aid for current exposure sites. Using the map's functions, you can search for suburbs, postcodes or alert locations near you. The results will indicate whether an exposure site is tier 1, 2 or 3 and let you know what government advice is if you've been to a site during the exposure period.  Click through here for access to the Victorian map, and read up about the latest information from the Victorian government here. Confused? Have a read of Melbourne's current rules and restrictions.

This handy website shows where you and your friend’s 15km bubbles overlap

This handy website shows where you and your friend’s 15km bubbles overlap

We have certainly become acquainted with the five-kilometre radius around our homes, as Melburnians have been stuck in their 5km bubbles since lockdown 6.0 began. But once 80 per cent of Victorians had received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine on September 28, Melbourne is now restricted to 15km bubbles. Having a limited amount of space to travel within meant we were all hankering to know where our bubbles intersected with friends. And while Melbourne experiences ebbs and flows of restrictions, it's always handy to know where you can meet up with your mates. The Covid Lockdown Overlap Finder website helps you find where you can meet up with friends for exercise or outdoor recreation. It’s super easy to use – just input your suburb and the suburb of your pal and find where you can meet up within a 15km bubble. If you need a little reminder about the rules right now, read this handy explainer. Here's what you can and can't do in Melbourne right now.

Picnics are back: Melbourne will welcome new freedoms from this weekend

Picnics are back: Melbourne will welcome new freedoms from this weekend

It’s looking like Victoria will hit its 70 per cent first dose vaccine threshold within the next 24 hours. So, as promised back in early September, Victorian premier Dan Andrews has announced a few modest changes to the current restrictions to those in metropolitan Melbourne and greater Ballarat.   The five reasons to leave the home will remain. These are ​​to ​​get the food and supplies you need; to exercise; to receive care or for caregiving purposes; for authorised work or education; and to get vaccinated. However, from 11.59pm on Friday, September 17, there is now a sixth reason to leave your home: for outdoor social interaction. Here's what's changing: One person may meet another person from another household for a picnic, a walk or another outdoor activity, regardless of vaccination status; Up to five adults (plus their dependents) from two households will be able to gather outdoors if all adults present have received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine; The time permitted to exercise (and for outdoor social interaction) will increase from two hours a day to four hours a day; The distance you can leave your home for shopping (for necessary good and services), exercise and outdoor social interaction will increase from five kilometres to ten kilometres; Two people can also train outdoors with a personal trainer; and Skate parks and outdoor communal exercise equipment will reopen. For the full list of rules, check with the government website.  For regional Victoria (everw

'We haven't peaked': Victoria's caseload to get worse before it gets better

'We haven't peaked': Victoria's caseload to get worse before it gets better

Victoria's daily Covid-19 caseload has been bouncing around between 400 and 500 for about a week, but chief health officer Brett Sutton has warned that those numbers are expected to increase.  "We haven't peaked, unfortunately," Sutton told a media conference today. "The Burnett modelling and everything we know in relation to our current vaccination coverage would suggest that cases will continue to increase. The fact that they're being held in the 400s again ... it's a very hard number to keep under wraps. Vaccination alone won't mean that there's a peak at the 400s." There is now evidence that our northern neighbours have flattened the curve, with daily new case numbers in NSW levelling off around the 1,200 mark. The CHO indicated Victoria could be headed for such scary numbers in the coming weeks, with our numbers increasing faster than NSW's.  "It's very hard to know," Sutton said. "We've had a higher growth trajectory in the previous week. It seems to have stabilised a little bit in the last few days, but we don't know where that true number is. The risk of it getting to 1,000 is real, so we have to press on with vaccinations at the fastest possible rate for that reason alone." Want to protect yourself and your community from Covid-19? Here's how to get a vaccination right now.