Australian airline crews demand a fair go

Do the cabin crew on your aircraft seem tired and jaded?

It might be because they are.

On International Cabin Crew Day, which is today, the Flight Attendants' Association of Australia (FAAA) is launching the “Fatigue Doesn’t Fly” campaign urging the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to introduce mandatory flight time and rest regulations for cabin crew.

Teri O'Toole, federal secretary of the FAAA is calling on CASA to give cabin crew a fair go.

“We only want what cabin crew all over the world have, including our colleagues in Sierra Leone and Bangladesh, some of the recognised poorest countries in the world," O'Toole says.

"Singapore, one of the few countries with flight lengths comparable to those of Australian crew, has had regulated flight time limitations (FTLs) for long-haul flying since 2017.

“Aligning with international standards will not only enhance safety but also ensure fair and consistent working conditions across the industry. Our aviation safety authority should have oversight and protections for all stakeholders in aviation, not just pilots. Relying on safe standards for fatigue risk should not be left to bargaining in Enterprise Bargaining Agreements.

"Health and safety should be mandatory and regulated, not something that relies on sitting down every four years to bargain for. We are calling for a much-needed permanent regulatory safety net.

“Our cabin crew travel the same distances and spend the same time in the air as pilots but are suffering without the same safety net when it comes to rest and scheduling. Why do pilots have better rest facilities on board than cabin crew? Because it’s mandated by CASA.

"Both cabin crew and pilots are human and should have the same consideration for how they take their rest on board."

O'Toole points out that cabin crew members are multi-skilled professionals trained in safety, fire, evacuation, and medical emergencies.

Captain Tony Lucas, president, Australian and International Pilots Association notes: “Our cabin crew are first responders in the event of an onboard emergency or medical situation. Just as a minimum of two well-trained and well-rested pilots are required for every flight, having well-trained and well-rested cabin crew are a vital part of the safety management process dealing with emergencies.”

Find out more at https://fatiguedoesntfly.com.au

Image: Jetstar

How staying at Ovolo Woolloomooloo can be an electrified experience

Ever wondered what it might be like to drive an electric/hybrid vehicle?

Ovolo Woolloomooloo Hotel and Peugeot have collaborated for an ‘Electrified Escape’, which will see guests able to enjoy complimentary use of one of the car company’s plug-in hybrids to explore Sydney.

Hotel guests will be able to get behind the wheel of the Peugeot 408, in line with Ovolo’s ‘Do Good. Feel Good’ slogant.

The hotel company’s senior marketing manager, Toby Franklin, described partnering with Peugeot to offer its guests an unparalleled driving experience as a “masterstroke”.

Which is hyperbole at its best.

“We're incredibly excited to enable Ovolo Hotels, a leader in designer accommodation in Australia, to provide guests with access to the alluring Peugeot 408," says Kate Gillis, managing director of Puegeot Australia really milking the superlatives.

Franklin carries on in the same style, adding: "It's definitely going to be an electrifying stay!"

For details see Electrified Escape | Peugeot x Ovolo Hotels 

For one night only: Australian wine gets cosy with Albo

Just about every day of the year there is a wine show somewhere around the globe. 

And just about every day some wine producers will be rejoicing and sending out press releases saying their winning wine is "the best in the Barossa", "the best in Australia", or "the best in the world". 

It's a lot of fun and nonsense - but effective marketing for the winners. 

Gourmet on the Road does not cover wine show results for many reasons, not the least that many of the best producers in Australia/the world do not enter them.

But last night the winners at the National Wine Show of Australia - arguably the biggest of the year - were presented with their awards by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the National Press Club.

Murdoch Hill’s 2022 Rocket Chardonnay from the Adelaide Hills won the Prime Minister’s Trophy for Champion Wine of Show. 

The presence of the PM triggered a flurry of photos from winning producers keen to pose with the main man. 

I wonder if any of them had a word with Albo about his wrong-headedness over the Middle East, AUKUS and other important matters? 

Probably not. 

Anyway, here are some photos from the night. With Albo a ubiquitous presence. 

Should you be so inclined, The full winners’ catalogue can be found at  www.nationalwineshow.com.au/2024-results

Images: Studio Vita/Supplied 

Using sport to sell unsellable travel destinations

Have you ever watched a sporting event, seen a tourism sponsor on a shirt and then decided to visit that destination?

No? Me neither.

Yet there is a growing trend for tourism boards to splash out hundreds of thousands of dollars on logos and patches on football jerseys.

Close to home we have “Tasmania” on the Hawthorn AFL guernseys. It is part of a sponsorship package deal.

In the English Premier League, top team Arsenal has the bewildering slogan “Visit Rwanda” on its shirts.

It is hard to believe it has attracted one Gunners fan to hotfoot it from north London to Africa for their annual holiday rather than Mallorca.

Arsenal maintain their deal is about promoting tourism in a developing country rather than supporting the country's political leadership. Visit Rwanda, however,  is an arm of the Rwanda Development Board which is a government department. 

Visit Rwanda also has deals with Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

MSC Cruises sponsors soccer teams including Chelsea, Paris St Germain and Napoli, which makes a little more sense. And AFC Bournemouth has a deal with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Association. OK. 

And airline sponsorships, of which there are many, sort of make sense.

But an announcement this week was particularly baffling: a deal between newly relegated English Premier League team Burnley and Visit Detroit. 

Maybe a lot of residents in the small northern English town have an interest in learning about urban degradation. Somehow I doubt it.

As per the agreement, the tourism board’s logo will feature as the Clarets’ main shirt sponsor during the team’s US pre-season. 

 
Visit Detroit (the city is pictured above) will additionally serve as Burnley’s travel wear partner. 

Since 2020, Burnley has been owned by US investment group ALK Capital, so there is some link, but it is hard to see just why anyone would make Detroit their US travel destination.

Marcus Mellor, Head of Commercial (silly title, that) at Burnley, said: “We are delighted to begin this new journey with Visit Detroit in this remarkable partnership.

“Football transcends geographical boundaries, and I’m pleased that through this collaboration we can strengthen our ties with US communities and fly the Clarets' flag stateside as we celebrate the passion for the beautiful game."

Detroit, for the uninitiated, was once known as Murder City and has had some of the highest crime rates in the US.

And you have to wonder whether Visit Detroit knows the difference between the Premier League, which draws worldwide attention, and the second-tier Championship, which does noe.   

I think they are all kidding themselves.

 the beautiful game.” 

 

 

 

Chocolate treats set to pop up at Soul Origin

 

So you have a sweet tooth?

You like hot and cold drinks and you love chocolate?

The Soul Origin chain this week launched a new partnership with Swiss chocolatier Lindt that will see Soul Origin introduce a new range of drinks that "blend the rich, velvety goodness of Lindt LINDOR with some signature beverages".

What to expect, then?

Soul Origin is offering two flavours in its 'Made With Lindt LINDOR' drink range.

Think drinks ranging from classic milk chocolate to a more exotic dulce de leche.

Clients simply choose their desired temperature, and whether they'd like their drink with or without espresso.

The drinks are available across all Soul Origin stores nationwide from now until July 14 at iced ($9.50), small ($5.40), regular ($6.20), and large ($6.80). 

Soul Origin has over 150 stores across Australia. See https://www.soulorigin.com.au/

Margaret River mourns wine visionary

The wine community in Western Australia is mourning the death of visionary Dr John Gladstones, whose research led to the founding of the Margaret River wine region over 50 years ago.

Gladstones' two seminal research papers in 1965 and 1966 were fundamental to the foundation of the Margaret River Wine Region.

Gladstones drew parallels between the climate of Margaret River and that of Bordeaux, and inspired the first generation of winemakers to plant vineyards.

Over a half-century on, the region continues to prove its perfect suitability for viticulture, and has established a significant international reputation.

Gladstones, who died at the age of 92, was one of Australia’s most influential agronomists and in 1986 was made a member of the Order of Australia.

He was the recipient of the Margaret River Wine Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. The eastern boundary of the Margaret River Wine Region Geographic Indication (GI) is named in his honour, with the 'Gladstones Line' running north to south at longitude 115°18'E.

Throughout the history of the Margaret River Wine industry, Dr Gladstones was a source of intelligence and an ally to most of our region's greatest achievers, the Margaret River Wine Associated said in a statement.

"His commitment and enthusiasm to excellence in Margaret River wine was unwavering - in 2017 he donated his library to the Margaret River Wine Association, to support the current and next generation."

Family values: two new members join AFFW

Prestigious wine collective Australia's First Families of Wine (AFFW) has announced the admission of two new members: Best's Great Western and Clonakilla. 

The expansion elevates the AFFW membership to 12 family-owned and operated wine producers. 

Strict criteria govern membership to this group, of which multi-generational succession is the key factor. only the beginning. Also important are exceptional vineyard sites exemplifying the best of terroir as well as ‘iconic wines’ of lengthy pedigree. 

Environmental best practice and a long-term commitment to exporting their wines to the world are also paramount to the collective's objectives 

The membership now comprises Best's, Brown Brothers, Campbells, Clonakilla, d’Arenberg, Henschke, Howard Park, Jim Barry Wines, Tahbilk, Taylors, Tyrrell’s Wines and Yalumba. 

Best's Great Western (above) was established in 1866 and is one of Australia's oldest and most respected wineries.

 Located in Victoria's Great Western region, Best's boasts some of the world's oldest pre-phylloxera vines. The Thomson family have owned the winery since 1920. 

Ben Thomson, managing director and fifth-generation family member, said: "It’s an honour and privilege to join Australia’s First Families of Wine. 

"As a fifth-generation family business, we value the unique perspective that a family business offers and look forward to further opportunities to share our best-kept secrets. The families involved represent wineries with similar values and a shared understanding of the landscape and opportunities which makes us stronger as a collective group."

Canberra District star Clonakilla was founded by Irish research scientist John Kirk in 1971 and has grown from a small family venture into one of Australia's great family wineries. 

Clonakilla is celebrated for its signature Shiraz Viognier, a wine that has garnered numerous accolades and established the winery's reputation for excellence. 

Tim Kirk, John's fourth son and current chief winemaker (above with father), has been instrumental in the winery's success, and since August 2023, Tim's brother Stephen has taken on the role of CEO, ensuring the family legacy continues. 

"First Families of Wine’ is a powerful vision, highlighting a vital dimension of wine in Australia: the contribution of families," said Tim Kirk. 

"We are honoured to join such a brilliant community of passionate, like-minded wine families with a proven, multi-generational commitment to quality and innovation.” 

Speaking from Hong Kong’s Vinexpo - where members of the AFFW collective are currently sharing their stories with the world, Chester Osborn of d'Arenberg, the eighth chairman of AFFW, said: “We are delighted to have Best's Great Western and Clonakilla join AFFW. 

"Both wineries exemplify the dedication to quality, heritage, and family values that define our group.

"Their inclusion not only strengthens our collective mission to promote and celebrate the rich diversity of Australian wine but also enhances the depth of our shared stories and experiences. As we navigate these challenging times, the history and authenticity of our member families become our most valuable assets." 

This month-long festival promises to be both scenic and tasty

The Scenic Rim is one of the most spectacular regions of Queensland and now is the time to visit with the 13th Scenic Rim Eat Local Month kicking off this weekend.

Think mountain views and World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforests, along with a focus on the bounty from regions including Tamborine Mountain, Canungra and Beechmont.

The events kick off on Saturday with a look at the secrets of sustainable organic farming at the Forgotten Sound Farm at the base of Tamborine Mountain. 

Forgotten Sound will also feature at The North Stores Eat Local Market, Growers and Makers Day on Main St, Tamborine Mountain, on Sunday.  

Also new to Eat Local Month and the world is The Loborn Tasting Bar, which officially opening its doors on Saturday. Loborn distils the liqueur amaro from Australian and local botanicals.

At Tamborine Mountain Distillery, guests can create their own signature spirits at one of the weekend classes. 

Also on Saturday at nearby at Canungra, My Country Escape has A Taste of Country event with the chance to chat with leading local producers. 

Then, as the first day of Eat Local Month's focus weekend draws to a close, The Paddock Sunset Banquet at Beechmont Estate provides an opportunity to eat and sip while watching the sunset.

The North Stores Eat Local Market, Growers and Makers Day on Sunday will feature local and seasonal produce from the likes of Tamborine Cheese Shop, Embers Wood Fire Dining and French bakery Franquette. 

At O'Reilly's Canungra Valley Vineyards, The Longest Lunch will be served overlooking Canungra Creek, while at Beechmont Estate there will be an afternoon of food, music and lawn games with High Tea in the Fields.

Wine lovers should note Witches Falls has a range of events, including their Behind the Barrels sessions, which go backstage to reveal secrets of the world of winemaking.

There’s also Tacos and Tipples over a relaxed Sunday afternoon of live music, wine, beer and cider.

Explore Scenic Rim Eat Local Month events by sub-regions HERE. 

Across all of June there will be over 120 food events including 40 long lunches, degustations and dinners, 23 workshops and classes and 37 tours and experiences. 

See www.eatlocalmonth.com.au

Image: Kathryn Sowter from Witches Falls Winery

Meet an ultra-micro producer with just one wine

TThere are boutique wine producers. There are micro producers and ultra-micro wine producers. 

Sons & Brothers Vineyard, maker of the Cabernet of Millthorpe in the Central West of New South Wales, are very much in the final category. 

Hands-on couple Christopher and Kathryn Bourke have been growing grapes at their two-hectare vineyard in the Orange wine region since 1981.

They have just one current release: a 2013 Cabernet blend that retails for $50. 

The couple deliberately release their wines after around a decade in bottke, believing they are at their best from 10-15 years of age. 

"Our Cabernet is exceptionally long lived," says Christopher, "and this is due on part to our unusual closure. This consists of a stainless steel crown cap that is placed over a a tin screw cap wad, which produces a very robust and reliable closure with an indefinite cellaring life".

The Cabernet of Millthorpe is a single vineyard wine, a bottle-aged, medium-bodied blend with a small amount of tempranillo and savagnin blended with the dominant cabernet to add textural interest. 

The couple describes the climate at Millthorpe as being like that of Beaujolais, in France, also known for its nimble, lighter-bodied reds.

So what does it taste like at 11 years of age? It is a very smooth and silky number, with intense flavours but lovely balance, making it very food friendly. 

The cool growing conditions mean the Bourkes ferment the fruit on skins for 28 days in open-topped vessels and use just a tad of  French oak (only 5-15% new) to allow the wine to be fruit forward and reflect its terroir.

The wine is only made in good years, hence there were no releases in 2011 or 2012.

This is extremely interesting and about as Burgundian as cabernet can get. 

The wine can be tried at at Ferment (The Orange Wine Centre), 87 Hill Street Orange. Ferment is open from Monday to Saturday between 11am and 8pm. Chris Bourke is at Ferment most Saturdays.

For more details see www.sonsandbrothers.com.au           

Climate change could mean more turbulent flights

There has been another terrifying airline turbulence incident on an international flight, sparking fears that global warming is making turbulence more frequent - and potentially deadly.

Twelve people were reported injured on a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Dublin at the weekend hit massive turbulence, Dublin Airport officials said.

The flight from Doha landed at Dublin and was met by emergency services.

Dublin Airport posted on X that six passengers and six crew members suffered various injuries and that eight of the 12 injured were taken to hospital.

Qatar Airways flight QR017 apparently suffered turbulence as it flew over Turkiye, Travel Mole reported..

“A small number of passengers and crew sustained minor injuries in flight and are now receiving medical attention,” Qatar Airways said in a statement. It added that “the matter is now subject to an internal investigation.”

Just last week a British man died during a severe turbulence incident on a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore's Changi Airport. There were 104 passengers injured on that flight.  

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said turbulence incidents are up concerningly. He said turbulence will continue to “affect American travellers, whether here or abroad.”

He told the CBS TV network: “The reality is, the effects of climate change are already upon us in terms of our transportation.

”“Our climate is evolving. Our policies and our technology and our infrastructure have to evolve accordingly, too.”

Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading in the UK, previously told CNN that he believes climate change is modifying turbulence. 

“We ran some computer simulations and found that severe turbulence could double or triple in the coming decades,” Williams said.

So disturbing news for frequent flyers. 

Buckle up people. 

* Singapore Airlines has amended its policy on in-flight seatbelt use, taking a "more cautious" approach. 

The airline will not serve passengers food and drink when the seatbelt sign is on, Travel Mole reported. 

The airline said: “SIA will continue to review our processes, as the safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance." 

Image: Einar Maeland Jensen, Scop.io 

Wu-Tang Clan meets David Bowie meets Mona

 

Nothing is too eclectic, too obscure, or too weird, for the team at Hobart's Museum of Old and New Art (Mona).

Namedropping, Mona's latest collection, is said to focus on status and the human pursuit of looking good in the eyes of others, with a piece of very rare music as the centrepiece.

Once Upon a Time in Shaolin is the seventh studio album by the American hip hop ensemble Wu-Tang Clan.

Only one physical copy of the album was created, with no ability to download or stream it digitally. Purchased directly from the Wu-Tang Clan in 2015, it became the most expensive work of music ever sold.

The album was recorded in secret over six years. A single two-CD copy was pressed in 2014 and stored in a secured vault then auctioned through auction house Paddle8 in 2015. A legal agreement with the purchaser stipulated that the album may not be commercially exploited until 2103 (when Wu-Tang Clan will be long forgotten), although it can be played at listening parties.

The winning bidder, Wikipedia assures me, was Martin Shkreli, a pharmaceutical entrepeneur.

In March 2018, after Shkreli's conviction for securities fraud, a federal court seized assets belonging to him, including Once Upon a Time in Shaolin. In July 2021, the US Department of Justice sold it to non-fungible token collectors PleasrDAO for $US4 million to cover Shkreli's debts;

PleasrDAO said they hoped to make it more widely accessible. and so....

For a limited time, visitors can see the album on display, with limited access to public listening events held in Mona’s Frying Pan Studios.

Jarrod Rawlins, director of curatorial affairs at Mona, says: "Every once in a while, an object on this planet possesses mystical properties that transcend its material circumstances. Once Upon a Time in Shaolin is more than just an album, so when I was thinking about status, and what a transcendent namedrop could be, I knew I had to get it into this exhibition."

A statement from Pleasr issued by Mona said: "10 years ago, the Wu-Tang Clan had a bold vision to make a single copy album as a work of fine art. To “put it in an art gallery…make music become a living piece like a Mona Lisa or a sceptre from Egypt.

"With this single work of art, the Wu-Tang Clan’s intention was to redefine the meaning of music ownership and value in a world of digital streaming and commodification of music. Pleasr is honoured to partner with Mona to support [de facto Wu-Tang Clan leader] RZA’s vision for Once Upon a Time in Shaolin."

Visitors can experience a curated thirty minute mix from the album, played from a personalised Wu-Tang PlayStation 1 in Mona’s own recording studio -Frying Pan - by attending a listening event.

Namedropping the Wu-Tang Clan will run twice daily, Friday-Monday, between June 15-24. Mona will release a limited number of free tickets for each event.

Music fans will also be able to see original handwritten lyrics to David Bowie’s Starman, showing edits and spelling corrections.

Purchased at auction by David Walsh in 2022, this piece of music history will make its debut at Mona during Namedropping.

Walsh says: ‘I like David Bowie. If you like Bowie, it’s a pretty good bet you’ll like Mona. That’s why we namedrop."

Running from June 15 until April 21, 2025,See the Mona website from 10am AEST on Thursday, May 30, for tickets.

See https://namedropping.mona.net.au/

Discover the best airline in the world for 2024

What is the best airline in the world?

It all depends on your perspective, of course, but AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety and product rating website, today announced Qatar Airways as its Airline of the Year for 2024.

Qatar Airways nudged out previous winners Air New Zealand as well as Korean Air, Cathay Pacific Airways and Emirates for the top spot.

The AirlineRatings.com Airline Excellence Awards, judged by five editors with over 100 years of industry experience, combines major safety and government audits, with 12 key criteria that include fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, safety rating, product rating, innovation and forward fleet orders.

AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “In our objective analysis Qatar Airways came out number one in many key areas although it was a very close scoring for the top 10.

“The passenger reviews, however, scored Qatar Airways ahead of all airlines and its consistency and high standard of service delivery came through in the feedback.”.

The Top 25 premium airlines are Qatar Airways, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific Airways, Air New Zealand, Emirates, Air France/ KLM, All Nippon Airways, Etihad Airways, Qantas, Virgin Australia/Atlantic, Vietnam Airlines, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, TAP Portugal, JAL, Finnair, Hawaiian, Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa / Swiss, Turkish Airlines, IGA Group (British Airways & Iberia) Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Airlines.

If Air Canada makes the top 25 I hate to think how bad some of the others are.

Qatar Airways picked up Best Business Class for the fifth year running and Best Catering and Air New Zealand won Best Economy Class.

Singapore Airlines won Best First Class, while Virgin Australia won Best Cabin Crew. Best-In-Flight Entertainment and Best Premium Economy went to Emirates, while Qantas picked up Best Lounges. Etihad Airways picked up Best Environmental Airline for the third year running.

Best Regional Airline was Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA).

AirlineRatings.com’s Best Low-Cost Airlines were; Americas – Southwest'; Middle East – Fly Dubai; Asia – AirAsia Group; Australia/Pacific – Jetstar Group; and Europe – easyJet.

Vietjet picked up two awards; Best Ultra Low-Cost Airline and Best Low-Cost Airline Onboard Hospitality.

See AirlineRatings.com

A very big month for the wine team at Brokenwood

 

It has been a big month for Hunter Valley wine icon Brokenwood with chief winemaker Stuart Hordern collecting a major award and then the high-profile launch of the new vintage Graveyard Shiraz, celebrating 40 years of the flagship wine.

Hordern was earlier this month awarded the First Creek Winemaking Services 2024 Winemaker of the Year at this year's Hunter Valley Legends Awards.

He has done 15 vintages at Brokenwood and 10 in charge and was promoted recently to the role of chief winemaker, only the second person after Iain Riggs in the 54-year history of the company to hold this position. 

Under his leadership, the Brokenwood Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz has maintained its position as the highest level of Langton's Classification of collectible Australian wines - the only red wine from New South Wales to hold this position.

Hordern was on hand last weekend for the release of the beautifully balanced - almost mellifluous - 2022 Graveyard ($350), an impressive affair for 350 guests held in the Brokenwood cellars, hosted by Riggs and catered by Hunter legend Robbie Molines. I was fortunate enough to attend. 

My wine writing colleague and good friend Rick Allen from the Newcastle Herald (the pair of us are indulgently pictured here at the launch) wrote a few words about Graveyard this week. 

--

Did you know the first ever vintage of Brokenwood’s iconic Graveyard wine in 1983 was, in fact, a cabernet? And the price a rather enticing $8? 

“Cabernet was all the go back in the early ’80s,” now retired long-time Brokenwood chief winemaker Iain Riggs (below) said. “Everyone drank cabernet and Bordeaux back then - fashion and trend play a part in wine.”

The first Graveyard shiraz came the following year in 1984 when they released both a Graveyard shiraz and a Graveyard cabernet.

Which means this month’s release of the Hunter’s most renowned shiraz - one of only 21 wines from right across Australia to earn the highest ranking in the prestigious Langton’s Wine Classifications - marks 40 years since the inaugural Graveyard shiraz.

“I had no idea back then that Graveyard would evolve to be the flagship,” Riggs said.

“For me it was just a new single vineyard shiraz, obviously with very good fruit.”

If the first couple of vintages were promising, 1986 changed all that.

“Without a doubt the best Graveyard I made in my time,” Riggs said. “Before that we’d had
bad weather or I’d picked too late, but in 1986 I nailed it. It put us on the map.”

Three successive “cracker vintages” followed soon after in 89, 90 and 91 and Graveyard’s
place in Australian wine’s highest echelon was unchallenged.

What other vintages does Hordern put up there?

“After ‘86, it’s the ‘98, then a matter of personal preference between 2014 and 2018,” he said, with Riggs nodding in full agreement.

The price tag these days is hefty - $350. And yet people queue for it every year.

“Over the last 10 years Graveyard has been consistently better than before,” Riggs said.

“We’re under screwcap, the vines are now 50 years old, better oak and we cull a lot more
these days. Plus Stu’s doing a great job.”

And then of course there’s the vineyard itself, planted in four core old-vine parcels.

“It’s a unique site, only 10 hectares, on a gentle east slope and even in a good year we only do about 700 cases,” Hordern said.

“Three of the parcels are planted north-south and one east-west. I think that’s what drives the consistency – every vintage one of the two will handle the conditions a bit better.

“Obviously with wines of this quality, we don’t produce it every year.”

--

The 2022 is a cracker, well worth purchasing if you have a lazy $350 in your wallet. 

See https://www.brokenwood.com.au/

Reach for the SKYE: somewhere very pleasant to stay in Sydney

It is part of Zetland, an inner Sydney suburb which used to have little to commend it for tourists. 

Now Green Square is a lively lifestyle precinct full of eateries, up-market apartments and one of the best discoveries I have made recently: SKYE Suites.

Not only is SKYE Suites a little oasis just four kilometres from downtown Sydney, it is also directly above the Green Square Railway station, which links you directly to both the domestic and international terminals at Sydney Airport in around five minutes. 

Perfect for anyone with an early flight departure, or late flight arrival, but also a very good base for tourists wanting to spend a few days exploring Sydney. You are one stop from Central Station, with its links to both Sydney light rail routes and multiple buses. 

And you get an entire well-equipped apartment rather than a pokey city centre hotel room. 

You've got cooking facilities with Smeg and Miele appliances, a large fridge, dishwasher and coffee machine, fast wifi, wide-screen TV with Chromecast capability, plenty of charging ports and a compact but functional bathroom with classy Smith&Co amenities.

Bedrooms have super comfy Sleeping Duck memory foam mattresses. 

On-site, you can swim, use the gym, heated spa, sundecks with private cabanas and sunbeds, or walk just a couple of hundred metres to a range of restaurants and - to keep the kids happy - a Maccas, KFC and Taco Bell. 

There are two supermarkets - Asian and Australian - within a short stroll as are Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Chinese, grilled chicken eateries and cafés. 

So location, location, location. And it is a non-party, non-smoking property, so a good sleep is assured.  

Property developer Iwan Sunito is now the full owner of both the 90-room Skye Suites Green Square serviced apartment hotel and the One Global Conference Centre, each part of the $575 million Infinity Park precinct. 

“We are looking to take the SKYE Suites hotel to the next level, under a new brand ‘One Global Resorts',” Sunito said.

“We are looking to elevate the guest’s experience more along the lines of luxury international hotels. 

"We will embark on developing a new hotel chain beginning with SKYE Suites Green Square, followed by our site at Macquarie Park, with more planned.”

The suites stretch over 20 storeys as part of an "urban resort" - and just as importantly, the staff at the 24-hour reception desk are excellent. I arrived early and asked to store my luggage, but was quickly installed in an alternative room. Impressive. 

If you think some of the images look familiar, it is because SKYE Suites was recently the location for the the latest season of Channel Nine’s Married At First Sight series. 

The property offers a range of apartment types including a studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments that can cater for a large family group. 

The bottom line: This is an urban sanctuary that's perfect for both overnight or longer stays. Very well priced, too. 

For more details check out https://www.skyegreensquare.com.au/

# The writer was a guest of SKYE Suites Green Square. Images: Winsor Dobbin 

Rex expands its domestic coverage; slams Virgin tardiness

Rex Airlines has announced new routes that will boost its coverage across major Australian airports.

Rex launched flights between Perth and Melbourne last week and today unveiled three flight per week between Perth and Adelaide using an an Embraer E-190 operated by its subsidiary National Jet Express, offering one-way fares from $249 in economy.

It is the 12th intercity route launched by Rex, which has previously focused on regional destinations.

NJE Director Anthony Gibara said flights on the new route are on sale now for travel from June 28 onwards.

"This is terrific news for Perth and Adelaide travellers because more operators means more competition but in the case of Rex, it also means better service and reliability,” Gibara said.

“There were almost 85 cancelled flights by Virgin and Qantas carriers on this route in the first four months of 2024 and in the case of Virgin, its on-time arrivals and departures were terrible.

“Just 56% of its flights arrived on time during that period, while its on time departures were only slightly better at 59%. Travellers deserve better and they will get it with Rex.

The Rex Group now flies to major capital cities and popular destinations including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and the Gold Coast.

South Australia Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said the new Rex service will help entice more visitors to South Australia from what is the state’s fourth-largest interstate market.

“It is very welcome news that Rex will start flying Perth to Adelaide, adding more flights into our state and offering another option for visitors from WA to see South Australia,” Bettison said.

All fares include checked baggage and refreshments. See rex.com.au or a travel agent.

Street art exponent to shine in Perth

Acclaimed street artist Rone is bringing his immersive art experience to Perth as part of a collaboration with Centenary Galleries Building at The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA)

To run from July 1-September 30, the exhibition will take over 12 rooms across both floors in the historic Centenary Galleries Building.

Rone, who goes by just one name but was born Tyrone Wright, will bring the full installation of TIME • RONE, and will create brand-new spaces specifically for the West Australian exhibition, with two new mural works exclusive to Perth.

The immersive installation will feature the TIME Bar, an artistic prohibition themed bar, the RONEART Dinner, a limited-capacity full sensory dining experience, and the RONE Store, an online and in-gallery merchandise store.

It will be Rone's only exhibition for 2024, over 100,000 patrons are expected to attend.

The event supported by the Western Australian Government.

Rone has previously painted murals in East Perth in 2018 and Bunbury in 2016.

"Having these types of exhibitions is fantastic for our community, creating vibrancy and offering entertainment for locals and visitors," said state tourism minister Rita Saffioti.

"We're always on the lookout for diverse ranges of events across sports, music and the arts, and having TIME • RONE will certainly be another drawcard for our year-round calendar.

"I definitely encourage Western Australians to head to AGWA to check out this fantastic exhibit, particularly as a great family activity during the July school holidays."

Geelong-born Rone has painted in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Havana, Paris, Berlin, London and Tokyo. 

His work is displayed in galleries including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria. 

Sustainability message a wine selling point in Australia

Interest in sustainable wine making and growing continues to grow in Australia.

The Australian Wine Research Institute’s General Manager Industry Development and Support Dr Mardi Longbottom said: “Despite challenging conditions facing the Australian wine industry, we’ve seen a really positive wave of progress within the sustainable winegrowing community, with many producers becoming certified for the first time.

“In addition to members saying, ‘it’s the right thing to do’, momentum has been building due to retailers and hospitality venues globally asking for sustainability credentials or building select ranges or wine lists around sustainability."

Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is the national sustainability program for Australian grape and wine producers and this month released its latest Impact Report, illustrating to retailers and consumers what is involved in making sustainable wine.

The report also highlights the increasing availability of wines that display the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certified trust mark. This mark assures purchasers that the vineyard and winery have met sustainability practices, verified by an independent third-party audit.

As consumers increasingly factor the environment and planet into their purchase decisions, a recent study confirmed that more than half of regular wine drinkers around the globe say they only trust the sustainability of wines if they have an official certification. A visible trust mark therefore provides confidence that the wine’s claims are validated and can help alleviate any concerns about greenwashing.

As of vintage 2023, the equivalent of 96.1 million bottles of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia-certified wine has been produced2, with more significant growth on the horizon from vintage 2024.

The trust mark makes it easier for consumers and retailers to identify sustainably made wine, helping people to buy better (so they say).

Hill Smith Family Estates head of sustainability Louisa Rose said: “Since vintage 2023, 100% of Hill-Smith Family Estates wines are now certified and progressively displaying the trust mark.

"Sustainable Winegrowing Australia certification has given us an advantage in both domestic and international markets. We are seeing more and more buyers seeking sustainable credentials when considering wines for new listings and tenders.

“While each market or customer is at a different part of the journey, many are moving rapidly in the direction of sustainable certification being a prerequisite to trade - it is easy to imagine a time when being certified sustainable is the norm for all customers, and that won’t be far away.”

Duxton Vineyards and Rewild Wine’s chief winemaker Tony Allen said: “When we launched Rewild wine a few years ago, we worked closely with a major Australian wine retailer who wanted to build more certified sustainable wine brands into their portfolio.

“With our focus on sustainability across every aspect of the process from grape growing and winemaking, through to packaging, we built the Rewild brand, with an ethos of giving back
more than it takes from mother nature. The Sustainable Winegrowing Australia trust mark makes it easier for wine drinkers to choose a product that prioritises the environment and people.”

Image: Yalumba vineyards in the Eden Valley

Hail damage a blow to Chablis wine producers

Some bad news for lovers of Chablis: supplies are likely to be reduced and prices could be higher from the 2024 vintage.

The renowned French wine region this week confirmed that damage caused by a hail storm earlier this month caused "considerable" damage.

Some areas suffered losses of up to 80%, a statement issued by regional wine body the BIVB said.

A statement from the BIVB assessing the damage three weeks after the weather incident said that around 1,000 hectares of vines were affected - roughly a sixth of the Chablis appellation, which covers approximately 5,800 hectares and comprises 20 village communes.

Chablis grand cru climats Vaumur, Vaudésir, Moutonne and Preuses were thought to be among the worst-hit sites, the BIVB said when the hail struck, however the the villages of Fontenay-près-Chablis, Villy and La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne have seen the biggest damage.

There was also damage in Chablis, Maligny, Beine and Lignorelles, with some vineyards in Chablis Grand Cru and Chablis Premier Cru also affected.

It has been estimated that around 400 ha of vines were affected by losses of more than 80%, it said, although the damage was “ultra-localised”, drinks business reported.

The BIVB pointed out that after two good harvests in 2022 and 2023, the levels of reserves - especially for the Petit Chablis and Chablis appellations - would help to mitigate the impact of the storm.

Food celebration in Vietnam pays tribute to Anthony Bourdain

The late chef and food commentator Anthony Bourdain have a love affair with Vietnam and its cuisine and a new food celebration in Danang is being held as a tribute to him.

The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, a five-star property on Vietnam’s Son Tra Peninsula, is celebrating the life of Bourdain, with a month-long culinary fiesta.

To be staged at Citron, a sea-facing restaurant which soars 100 metres above the waves and showcases Vietnam’s distinct regional flavours, the festival will be called “Vietnam Street Food Celebration: A Tribute to Anthony Bourdain”.

Guests will be emerged in authentic local street food flavours.

Bourdain was a regular visitor to Vietnam and often spoke about his love of the country’s culture and cuisine, so the hotel says it decided to "honour this heartfelt connection" in the most appropriate way possible - through fantastic food.

Throughout June 2024, guests can savour a special set menu that showcases some of Anthony Bourdain's favourite Vietnamese dishes.

After starting with pork and prawn spring rolls and vibrant green papaya salad, diners can then discover the deep flavour and heady fragrances of beef phở, Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup.

A trio of main courses will then present diners with Vietnamese escargots with pork and lemongrass, a tribute to the French heritage that Anthony shared with Vietnam, along with classic pork bánh mì and bún chả, before a delectable dessert of pomelo sweet soup.

This menu has been created by chef Thu Doan, Citron’s executive sous chef, who has been at the hotel for over a dozen years.

The culinary festival will also offer guests the opportunity to learn the art of Vietnamese cooking through interactive classes, which also focus on Bourdain’s favourite recipes, while a barista-led coffee tasting session will shine a spotlight on Vietnam’s unique cà phê culture.

“Anthony Bourdain had a genuine affection for Vietnam and its people," says hotel GM Seif Hamdy.

"He was a regular visitor to the country and helped to put Vietnam’s cuisine on the international stage with his TV shows.

"We would like to pay tribute to this wonderful man in the best way possible - through our shared love of food."

See www.danang.intercontinental.com/vietnam-street-food-celebration.

When you have to pilot a taxi yourself because your driver is asleep

Imagine having to drive a taxi because your driver is too sleepy. 

That's exactly what happened to a Thai woman this week. 

The woman from Pattaya became a social media sensation after sharing her hilarious encounter with the over-tired taxi driver online, Asean Now reported. 

 The woman posted a video on TikTok on May 21, sharing how she had to drive a taxi to Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok at 3am after the driver fell asleep.

The woman and her friend called a cab in the early hours, and they noticed the driver looked tired while behind the wheel. 

When the driver actually nodded off at the wheel, the woman asked if she could drive instead.

In the video, it's clear that the driver allowed the woman to take over and moved to the back seat for some much-needed sleep. 

The woman's friend said: "We drove ourselves from Pattaya to Don Mueang Airport, with the driver sleeping soundly behind us."

"Only in Thailand!" says our Thai correspondent. 

Yangarra single block wine releases shine

Integrity, complexity, vitality, drinkability.

Those four words sum up the new premium single block releases from McLaren Vale organic and biodynamic trendsetter Yangarra. 

Long-serving winemakers Peter Fraser and Shelley Torresan are known for their willingness to experiment; from unusual grape varieties to ceramic eggs, to oxidative handling to use of Austrian oak. 

Yangarra makes wines that push the boundaries, but are always well considered, 

Yangarra Estate is in Blewitt Springs in the north-east of McLaren Vale, a region where Rhone Valley varietals - both white and red - shine.

There is an emphasis on old bush vine grenache - vines planted in 1946. 

Fraser and vineyard manager Michael Lane have been in charge for close to a quarter of a century, with Torresan, who led a Hobart tasting, starting in 2006. 

Wines from single blocks like High Sands, Ironheart King's Wood and Ovitelli shine in the new releases from the 2021 and 2022 vintages. 

The tasting this week arranged by distributors Mezzanine demonstrated that both red and white wines benefit from around a decade in the bottle. Museum wines from 2014 and 2016 were certainly singing, while what Torresan describes as "long, cool ferments that don't fluctuate" have clearly played a role across the board.  

The 2022 Ovitelli Blanc ($70) is a blend of grenache blanc, roussanne, grenache gris, bourboulenc and clairette with extended skin maceration adding impressive mouthfeel and complexity. 

The 2022 Roux Beaute Roussanne ($70) is a single-varietal that saw skin fermentation and time in large ceramic eggs with the blend remaining on skins for four months. This is a superb food wine. 

There are no fewer than three grenaches: the tightly coiled, very pretty 2022 Hickinbotham Clarendon Grenache ($90), the fruit-forward Ovitelli 2022 Grenache ($90) with remarkable depth of flavour, and the star of the show, the complex and immediately impressive 2021 High Sands Grenache ($325).

Torreson describes the High Sands as "the best of the best" with subtle Austrian oak playing a support role in a complex wine that I noted was "marvellous". A landmark red with style and power in equal measure. 

For me, the grenaches outshone the shirazes on this merry-go-round. 

That said, the varietal but elegant 2022 King's Wood Shiraz ($70) offers cellaring value. A single percent of viognier adds perfumed notes here. 

The 2022 Ironheart Shiraz ($130) is long, intense and delicious with hints of French oak influence and a little bit of ferrous minerality.

It's certainly well worth checking out this range. See https://www.yangarra.com/

Refurbed Sydney hotel aims to give back to the community

Song Hotel Sydney, a newly renovated hotel on the fringe of Sydney's CBD, is a little bit different to most hotels.

As a member of the YWCA Australia family, the 156-room hotel operates on a profit-for-purpose basis, with 100% of its profits directly contributing to the work of YWCA Australia, which has been supporting women across housing, services, and leadership pathways for 140 years.

The Song recently reopened its doors following a complete refurb. It is located on Wentworth Avenue with rooms starting from $170 per night on special deals.

“Our profit-for-purpose approach means that 25 cents of every dollar spent at Song Hotel Sydney contributes to the work of YWCA Australia,” said Jon Ackary, the hotel's general manager.

“Every guest that stays with us naturally becomes part of a greater good as soon as they walk through the door.

“We're a hotel with heart and staying with us is something to feel good about.”

In 2023, YWCA Australia provided 130,000 nights of safe accommodation to women, supported 6,000 individuals through a number of programs, and provided homes for 529 people, thanks to the support of Song Hotel guests and other funding sources.

“Our commitment to social impact doesn't come at the expense of guest satisfaction," Ackary added.

"We offer a hotel stay that is, in many ways, impactful – not only does it feel good for the soul but it's also convenient, great value, warm and welcoming.”

Following its re-launch, Song Hotel Sydney offers 156 newly renovated rooms, including 62 rooms with private balconies, six larger corner rooms, six accessible rooms and eight family rooms.

The four-star hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar, Song Kitchen.

For more info see www.songhotels.com.au.

A by Adina to hit the heights in Austria

Australian hotel brand A by Adina is to make its debut in Europe next year.

The homegrown premium hospitality outfit will debut in the Austrian capital of Vienna.

A by Adina Vienna Danube’s infinity pool will have views overlooking St Franziskus Church and the Reichsbrücke.

TFE hotels says construction well underway on the 48-storey DANUBEFLATS - Austria's tallest residential tower, which will be 180 metres high.

A by Adina Vienna Danube will move into the precinct in early 2025, aiming to satiate demand for luxury short-term apartment style accommodation.

A by Adina will offer 108 premium apartments in the DANUBEFLATS building, with apartments ranging from 23 square metres to 64 square metres across a range of studios, one- and two-bedroom room types.

Hotel guests will also have access to that panoramic headed pool overlooking Vienna's old town, a wellness area, business lounge with meeting rooms.

In addition to the hotel, the building will house 500 privately financed residential units. A restaurant and a supermarket are planned for the ground floor and parking will be available in the underground garage. Stay tuned.

New Zealand winemaker is a very naughty boy

A leading New Zealand winemaker who smuggled vine cuttings from Australia to New Zealand in contravention of biosecurity laws has been sentenced in a Blenheim Court.

James Millton used the smuggled clippings to establish vines, the Ministry for Primary Industries said in a statement.

Millton was charged with hiding the cuttings he hid in his luggage. The judge described his actions as “utterly inexplicable” and “unfathomable”.

Millton operates Millton Vineyards and Winery, which is promoted as New Zealand’s first organic and biodynamic wine estate.

He was this week sentenced in the Blenheim District Court to five months of community detention and fined $NZ15,000 on charges linked to him knowingly importing goods with no biosecurity clearance and knowingly making a false or misleading declaration to officials at Auckland Airport.

James and his former wife Annie Millton established The Millton Vineyard on the banks of the Te Arai River near Manutuke in the Gisborne region 40 years ago.

The Ministry for Primary Industries charged Millton after a Blenheim nursery raised concerns over the provenance of cuttings he wanted grafted, which turned out to be from the illegal vines already established in Gisborne.

He admitted illegally importing the grapevine cuttings in his suitcase, failing to declare them, and later planting them in his garden and vineyard.

The court heard that Millton’s actions risked introducing a suite of pests and diseases that had the potential to cripple the New Zealand wine industry, which is also one of the country’s major export industries.

During a trip to South Australia in 2019, Millton took the two cuttings from a savagnin grapevine from a vineyard in the Adelaide Hills - a vineyard he knew to be healthy and disease-free. Savagnin is a grape variety grown mostly in the Jura region of France.

Millton was interested in the variety as it was not present in New Zealand and he wanted to cultivate it at his vineyard in Gisborne, and then later in Marlborough. Not a great plan it turned out. 

Viva the Revolution Express: Vietnam on the right track

Two original pre-independence steam locomotives have been restored to power the Revolution Express, a new heritage tourism experience in central Vietnam that will start in late 2024 or early 2025. 

Indochina Rail Tourist Service  and Wafaifo Optimisers have signed a management agreement for Wafaifo Optimisers to manage the Revolution Express steam train, a new tourist experience in central Vietnam. 

The two original steam locomotives from the 1960s have been refurbed to prime condition and the locomotives will pull two fully appointed retro-styled carriages that can seat up to 57 passengers each, as well as a custom-made kitchen carriage and a baggage carriage.

The locomotives are the last remaining working steam ones in Vietnam, dating from the pre-independence era, both built locally in Vietnam, based on the French Mikado design. 

They have been restored over a number of years, using original parts and utilising the skills of the last remaining steam engineers working for Vietnam Railways.

The Revolution Express will make a return trip between Danang city and the former royal capital of Hue each day. Each journey will traverse the scenic Hai Van coastal mountain range and stop at Lang Co, adjacent to beautiful lagoon and beach scenery.

Served by staff  in period costume (that sounds a bit naff), passengers will be able to enjoy light food and drinks as they view one of the most picturesque coastlines and mountain passes in south-east Asia.

Indochina Rail and Wafaifo Optimisers signed the partnership agreement on May 20  represented by Indochina Rail chairman Michael Gebbie, and Wafaifo Optimisers’ managing director Pieter van der Hoeven and commercial director Mikkel Krantz.

“We are proud to bring these old dames of rail back to life and to showcase important periods in Vietnamese history from imperial through colonial rule and finally the struggle to independence,” said Gebbie.

“We seek to give visitors an interactive sense of Vietnam's history and future. Whether you enjoy learning about history or trains, or just want to ride an authentic heritage steam train over the famously scenic Hai Van Pass, the Revolution Express will offer a magical experience for young and old alike”

Highlights of the tourist experience will include themed dining at the three railway stations on the route: Kim Lien (Danang), Lang Co and Hue. Each station will have its own menus and entertainment schedules to meet the arrival of the Revolution Express.

The train stations with their restaurants and retail offerings are being designed to also attract other road and VNR (Vietnam National Rail) passengers travelling between Danang, Lang Co and Hue on the scenic coastal route.

In Hue, the original train maintenance building is being refurbished as the Station Restaurant. The venue is being themed in an imperial manner befitting the history of Hue, the last bastion of the dynastic era in Vietnam.

In Lang Co, the restaurant will be themed to mark the independence that Vietnam enjoys today. Apart from a full restaurant offering, food carts will be on the station platform offering homemade ice cream, freshly squeezed fruit juices, Vietnamese coffee, and newly pressed sugar cane. Regular VNR-run trains all stop at Lang Co station for passenger refreshments.

Potentially, the third restaurant at the station on the outskirts of Danang will also be developed. If so, it will be themed in a colonial manner to reflect a different era in Vietnam’s national journey.

Wafaifo Optimisers will be responsible for marketing, booking and catering for the Revolution Express and its stations. The company will also open its own urban resort in the heritage city of Hoi An in the third quarter of this year (see previous story).

Further announcements on the commencement of the Revolution Express and how to book will be made in the next few months.

Passing Clouds set to celebrate half a century of winemaking

Very few wineries can boast of having switched regions - but Passing Clouds has been based in two different parts of Victoria during its 50-year history.

Passing Clouds co-founders Graeme Leith and Sue MacKinnon began by planting cabernet sauvignon and shiraz grapes at their original Bendigo vineyard in Kingower, but had the prescience to later past cool-climate varieties at Musk. 

For the past 15 years Passing Clouds has been a popular destination at Musk, just outside of Daylesford in the Macedon Ranges. 

The Leith family, still custodians of the brand, will celebrate 50 years of winemaking later at a special tasting on September 10 - a business "built on story-telling, celebrations, resilience and the wine in the bottle". 

Cameron Leith, who took over from his father in 2007 after a vintage in France, today juggles making the classic Passing Clouds Bendigo wines with the cool-climate varieties - pinot noir and chardonnay - grown at Musk. 

Since 2010, the Macedon Ranges has been become Passing Clouds’ new home, although the vineyards were long established, having planted by Graeme in 1998. 

Today Cameron and Marion Leith and their three children call Musk home and the property now boasts an excellent Dining Room offering lunch, its ow train platform, extensive gardens and an architecturally designed cellar door.

Passing Clouds is at 30 Roddas Lane, Musk, Victoria, and its cellar door is open seven days a week. 

Grazing plates are available on Thursday in the cellar door 11am-3pm while the Dining Room is open for lunch Friday-Monday from noon. 

Bookings are essential for dining. www.passingclouds.com.au/dining-room-bookings 

Slovenia's capital hits the right notes over summer

The delightful Slovenian capital of Ljubljana comes alive with music and dance over summer.

The Ljubljana Festival is the main summer festival in Slovenia and is one of the oldest festivals in Ljubljana. And it runs for over two months.

Lucky for the locals, they get to experience all the fun for two jam-packed months of warm weather, blooming flowers, arts and entertainment.

The traditional opening concert on June 20 features the RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra & Big Band and the RTV Slovenia Youth Choir.

 


Every summer the Ljubljana Festival makes an important contribution to the cultural life of Ljubljana - and entertains visitors - with a program covering a wide variety of genres, including ballet, opera and theatrical productions, musicals, chamber and symphony concerts, the International Art Colony, master classes, and children’s and youth workshops.

Highlights include the Ljubljana Festival events on the River Ljubljanica - the river that runs through the centre of the capital.

Among those participating will be the London Symphony Orchestra, the Concerto Budapest Symphony Orchestra, the ADDA Simfònica Alicante, the Orchestra del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, the Filarmonica della Scala, and soloists including tenors Jonathan Tetelman and Juan Diego Flórez.

Pianists Mikhail Pletnev and Grammy winner César Camargo Mariano, saxophonist and clarinetist Paquito d’Rivera, violinist Vilde Frang, prima ballerina Svetlana Zakharova, and conductors such as Sir Antonio Pappano, Riccardo Chailly, Zubin Mehta, Charles Dutoit, András Keller, Aleksei Kornienko also feature.

Entertainment will be provided by 4,000 artists from more than 40 countries.

The 72nd edition of the Ljubljana Festival will run from June 20 to September 3, when it will end with a gala concert by pianist Martha Argerich.

See https://www.visitljubljana.com/ and https://ljubljanafestival.si/