The Kiln Collective will be a local outlet for quality small-batch and artisanal products in a space that has been empty since The Kiln restaurant closed earlier this year.
Sunday, 25 May 2025
Say cheese: The Kiln ready to fire up again.
The Kiln Collective will be a local outlet for quality small-batch and artisanal products in a space that has been empty since The Kiln restaurant closed earlier this year.
Time for winter reds to take centre stage
There's a growing chill in the air and red wines are ready to take centre stage.
The Adelaide Hills wine region is gearing up for its annual Winter Reds festival from July 25-27 and has named cuddly TV food personality Matt Preston as the event's official ambassador.
Winter Reds is a 15-year fixture over the last weekend of July, when it highlights "red wine, great food, warm fires, and conviviality".“We are genuinely delighted to have Matt Preston joining us for our Winter Reds weekend this July," says winemaker Alex Trescowthick, president of the Adelaide Hills Wine Region.
“The Winter Reds festival is an opportunity to get together with friends, rug up, and explore our winter wonderland, where our cool-climate red wines shine. From pinot Noir to shiraz, gamay, tempranillo, nebbiolo, and beyond, there’s so much to discover in the Adelaide Hills Wine Region.”
Saturday, 24 May 2025
New owner, new experiences on Picnic Island

Tasmania's exclusive Picnic Island retreat will re-open later this year as all-inclusive luxury private island experience with a private chef.
Picnic Island boasts of offering "a rare combination of complete privacy, bespoke luxury service, and refined accommodations for up to six guests".
The experience will include private boat transfers, a personal chef who will tell a story of place in each meal, and customised daily activities ranging from guided Freycinet walks to oyster farm visits, wine tastings, whisky distillery tours, and marine adventures.
"This isn't just luxury accommodation; it's a fully immersive experience in one of Australia's most pristine environments," said Israel.
For more information about Picnic Island Tasmania and to inquire about bookings, see www.picnicisland.com.au.
Fancy flying Australia to China via Vietnam?
Fast-growing Vietjet this week announced the launch of two new direct routes connecting Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, with Chengdu and Xi’an in China.
The inaugural flights are scheduled for July 1 and July 6 respectively.
Each route will operate four return flights per week, boosting the airline’s China–Vietnam network to seven new routes introduced in the first half of 2025.
These new services are aimed to appeal to Australian travellers looking to explore multi-stop itineraries across Asia with connections from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth via Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City into China.
The launch also supports growing demand for trade, tourism, and business travel in the broader Asia-Pacific region.
To celebrate the launch, Vietjet is offering promotional tickets at super-saver fares viawww.vietjetair.com and via the Vietjet Air mobile app.
These new routes follow the recent launches connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with Beijing and Guangzhou, as well as the Hanoi-Shanghai service.
With the addition of Chengdu and Xi’an, Vietjet strengthens its position as a leading low-cost carrier providing direct access to China from Vietnam.
For Australians using Vietnam as a regional hub, Vietjet’s wider network recently includes direct flights from Vietnam to India (Hyderabad, Bengaluru), Japan (Nagoya, Fukuoka) and a new service between Phu Quoc Island and Singapore will also be starting at the end of this month.
# Vietjet is a full member of International Air Transport Association (IATA) with the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate. It is Vietnam’s largest private carrier.
Friday, 23 May 2025
Spain cracks down on Airbnb operations
The government action comes after months of anger over a housing affordability crisis in major cities including Barcelona, news portal Travel Mole reports.
The Spanish Consumer Rights Ministry said many listings have violated record-keeping rules, citing discrepancies such as missing licence numbers and owner declarations.
Spaniards have increasingly blamed short-term rentals on housing shortages and surging rental costs.
Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy said the clampdown will address the general ‘lack of control and illegality’ in the holiday let market.
“No more excuses," he said. "Enough with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing in our country."
The move is mostly targeting what it calls "illegal listings" in Madrid, Barcelona and parts of Andalusia.
Airbnb is appealing the action and has filed a court motion.
Official data shows there are more than 320,000 licensed rental properties in Spain, but officials say there are many more operating illegally.
The Consumer Rights Ministry first opened an investigation into Airbnb late last year.
The housing shortage crisis has been at the centre of anti-mass tourism protests across Spain in the past year.
Barcelona has already taken measures to alleviate the problem, with plans to remove around 10,000 licensed short-term rental apartments within the next three years.
Sky high: Austrians taking their wines very seriously
In Austria, they take things a little more seriously.
Austrian Airlines, for instance, now has more than 100 Austrian wine experts to ensure the best in-flight wine experience.
Austrian Wine ran a multi-day training course on wine, which has taught employees the skills to convey the diversity, quality and character of Austrian wines to Austrian Airlines passengers.
“We are delighted that this Austrian Wine Experts initiative has enabled us to bring our long-established partnership with Austrian Airlines onto an even higher level,” said Chris Yorke, CEO of Austrian Wine.
Thursday, 22 May 2025
From camel skewers to squidlipops: Dark Mofo's Winter Feast to push boundaries

Dark Mofo's Winter Feast is promising to dish up a mixture of old favourites and rising culinary stars.
The the food and drink element of the winter solstice festival will returns to the Nipaluna/Hobart waterfront for eight nights of feasting next month.
The waterfront location will welcome over 70 stallholders along with music, firelight and community vibes.
‘The Winter Feast is the warm, beating heart of Dark Mofo," says Dark Mofo artistic director Chris Twite.
"Gathered around fires and feasting by candlelight, it’s where we come in from the cold to share stories of where we've been and what we've seen. Eating together - friends, strangers, locals, visitors - is an important festival ritual, and the staggering array of incredible food on offer means there is always something for everyone.’
The Feast will welcome guest chef Niyati Rao from acclaimed Mumbai restaurant Ekaa, who will collab with Craig Will, Bianca Welsh and James Welsh from Stillwater in Launceston.
Other food collaborations include Thi Le + Fat Pig Farm, which sees award-winning Melbourne chef Thi Le teaming up with locals Fat Pig Farm; Salvage Drink Co. X Braised presenting infused cocktails paired with spiced offerings from Hobart's premium lamb providore; and Marla Singer X L’Appel Wines pairing an octopus slider with pinot noir.
Chef Analiese Gregory makes her return to the fires of the Feast, this year bringing a taste of the Tasmanian sea. She’ll be serving up skewers of baby abalone, shiitake and black garlic, grilled over fire (top image).
New Feast stallholders include Dark Dogs, serving their take on dagwood dogs; wine bar South will presents a slow-cooked possum bao; Elle’s Pantry will have pockets stuffed with seasonal pickles, tabbouleh, and green harissa hummus; and Bass Strait Seafood & Co by Sabina Newton will offer dishes ranging from creamy chowder to buttery marinara.

Fresh from his appearance on ABC’s Eat the Invaders, Mona’s executive chef Vince Trim is back with Heavy Metal Kitchen, eating the problem with a feral feast: fire-charred camel, skewered and served with an array of spiced and braised condiments.
Visitors can wash the dishes down with new offerings from New Norfolk’s Welcome Swallow Brewery, fizzy blush from Common Wine, or a Pressing Matters pinot noir.
Mona’s own wineries - Moorilla and Domaine A - will be on site, along with Moo Brew.
Amanda Vallis, the Winter Feast curator, says: ‘The food community in Lutruwita/Tasmania is one of the best things this island has to offer, and nowhere is it more pronounced than when everyone comes together to feast around the fires in the depths of winter.
"Whether it’s a hot take on a dagwood dog, or the flavour explosion offered by a guest chef all the way from India, the Winter Feast is sure to fill your cup and feed your soul.’
The Winter Feast takes over Salamanca Lawns and Princes Wharf Shed 1 and runs and runs on both weekends of the festival: Thursday June 5-8 and June 1-15.
Season passes are available via darkmofo.net.au/winter-feast
As part of the Winter Feast’s commitment to reaching zero waste, all stallholders will use compostable crockery and cutlery, with reusable cups and schooners available for beverages. The Feast is also a completely cash-free event.
# Dark Mofo is Tasmania’s mid-winter festival celebrating the dark through large-scale public art, food, music, fire, light, and noise, in Hobart.
Images: Dearna Bond, Dark Mofo
All change as major Australian hotels re-brand
New brandings revealed by the partners will see the Regent Hotels & Resorts brand return to Melbourne after 28 years and three properties to be re-badged as InterContinental properties.
The new Regent Melbourne (above) will see the Rialto-located hotel transformation from InterContinental Melbourne in 2030.
IHG's luxury and lifestyle expansion also sees three of its popular and successful properties joining the InterContinental brand portfolio.
At the same time, voco Gold Coast, which was the first voco hotel to open globally and another IHG/Salter Brothers collaboration, will undergo a refurbishment and expansion of its leisure facilities.
Matt Tripolone, IHG Hotels and Resorts managing director for Australasia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to announce an extended long-term agreement with Salter Brothers, which further strengthens our existing, highly successful relationship.
“We're thrilled to be bringing our Regent Hotels & Resorts brand back to Australia after an absence of 28 years, with Regent Melbourne on track to welcome guests in 2030.
“Overall, this agreement underscores the strength and evolving nature of Australia's hotel market and highlights the growing trend for conversions in our industry as guests increasingly seek immersive Luxury & Lifestyle experiences across the country."
Paul Salter, managing director of Salter Brothers, added: “We have a strong history with IHG spanning more than a decade, and are fully committed to our partnership which continues to drive growth for our assets. This new agreement represents over $1bn investment in the Luxury & Lifestyle segment and highlights our conviction in providing distinctive lifestyle experiences for travellers globally, with an emphasis on timeless style, culinary mastery and wellness facilities for guests."
Wednesday, 21 May 2025
Cruise giant orders more ships as industry booms

The cruise industry is an unstoppable force.
No matter how many crises it confronts, the simple truth is that a lot of people are happy to spend good money to be at sea on huge ships.
MSC Cruises, one of the industry heavyweights, this week announced a firm order for two new ‘World Class’ series ships.
This will take the number of MSC ships in the class to six.
The new vessels are currently being referred to as World Class 5 and 6 prior to being named and are expected to be delivered for service in 2029 and 2030.
The pair will be built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard outside Nantes in Frabce and will be powered by alternative fuel sources including LNG, travel portal Travel Mole reports.
The 6,700-guests ships will join MSC World Europa and MSC World America (above), which have already launched, and MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic, which will be delivered over the next two years.
“The confirmation for the two new World Class ships marks a new milestone and the continuation of our long-term industrial plan,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises.
“The highly successful World Class platform combines the very best in environmental technology with the latest advancements in guest experiences.”
The new ships will also have shore power plug-in capability and advanced wastewater treatment systems.
Western Australia to host global wine event
The Margaret River Region in Western Australia will be the first Australian host for the The World's 50 Best Vineyards awards this November.
The 2025 event will be held on Wednesday, November 19, celebrating outstanding vineyards around the world that combine exceptional wine, food and visitor experiences.
The event will kick off a big week in the region, with the return of the Pair'd Margaret River Region festival to follow from November 20-23.
Pair'd is a vibrant four-day event now in its second year, that showcases the south west's acclaimed wine, food and music, featuring experiences across wineries and destinations, and collaborations with the region's top chefs, winemakers and sommeliers.
Cabin Fever means fiery fun and games in Margaret River
There's also a range of new experiences including a Lo-Fi Wine Fair featuring bites from Dahl Daddys and wine from lo-fi, small-batch winemakers Amato Vino, Si Vintners, Rosa Glen Farm and Dirt Temple.
“One of the most exciting things about Cabin Fever is how it sparks unexpected, incredible collaborations, that people not only love to attend, but the venues, producers and chefs love working together to deliver," says festival director Erin Molloy.
“People have come to rely on the festival to deliver an experience like no other in the region during the winter months, with the region coming alive as a winter wonderland of fire pits, feasts, and fun.”
Tuesday, 20 May 2025
Flying high: Marnong Estate makes a statement

Make a note of the name: Marnong Estate.
First the Victorian red wine producer snapped up talented winemaker Alex Beckett, and now it has released a new collection of premium reds: 2024 single-vineyard expressions of sangiovese, montepulciano, and pinot noir, along with a 2023 single-vineyard shiraz and a more affordable 2024 estate pinot noir.
I've just tasted the 2024 montepulciano and pinot noir, along with the 2023 shiraz, which share a common thread of cool-climate elegance and hints of subtle minerality throughout the range.
You won't find Marnong in one of the major wine regions but it is in one of the oldest; located in Sunbury, just down the road from Melbourne Airport.
It sits 300 metres above sea level and is just 35 minutes from Melbourne CBD. There are 34 hectares under vine, with more planned.
“Our wines are carefully crafted to capture the essence of the cool climate terroir through a balance of traditional and innovative techniques," former Briar Ridge winemaker Beckett (below) says.
Of the trio I tried, the intense and savoury montepulciano was narrowly my favourite, just edging the spice notes of the shiraz. Both are very good buys, and extremely food friendly.
The prices are: 2024 Single Vineyard Sangiovese $35; 2023 Single Vineyard Shiraz $40, 2024 Single Vineyard Montepulciano $35, 2024 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir $40, 2024 Estate Pinot Noir $25.
Marnong is certainly on my list for my next visit to bleak city. The property, with the original homestead dating back to the 1840s, is a luxury wine and dining destination with accommodation to match.
Visitors can taste at the cellar door, or dine in at one of two Italian restaurants, La Vètta, and Cucina 3064, or enjoy coffee with a view at Caffè Vista.
Marnong Estate holds wine and chocolate tastings at its cellar door - but you'll need a reservation for that. See www.marnongestate.com.au.
Bali bans small plastic water bottles
Bali has taken a major stop towards reducing plastic waste.
The holiday island's governor, Wayan Koster, has banned the production and manufacture of water in small plastic containers, newsletter Bali Update reports.
All plastic containers with capacities of less than one litre are included. The decree effectively ends the use of plastic cups of water, small drinking bottles, or half-litre water containers.
The Provincial Government of Bali said the move represented "a collective, systematic, integrated, and culturally based action to alleviate the growing trash problem".
The memorandum is intended to dramatically reduce plastic waste across six sectors: offices, traditional villages, businesses, hotels and restaurants, educational institutions, marketplaces, and places of worship.
The includes severe enforcement provisions. Sanctions include revocation of company permits and licenses and suspension of financial aid to traditional villages.
Conversely, community members who consistently support the program to eliminate one-time-use plastics will be given government incentives and rewards.
Governor Koster said the move would apply across the armed forces, the Indonesian police, village chiefs, community leaders, and community organisers.
“We must stop using single-use plastic and process waste starting from the source," Koster said. "Use compost, maggots, animal feed, or other modern systems. This is a collective movement, not just a campaign.
“Green hotels, green malls, green restaurants - that’s the future of Bali. If a destination is not environmentally friendly, don’t expect to be visited by international travellers.”
Tourists will now need to provide their own stainless steel drinking bottles.
Malaysia promoting wellness travel experiences

Tourism Malaysia has unveiled a new collection of wellness tourism packages, offering visitors to the Asian nation a range of rejuvenating escapes and nature-based experiences.
The wellness packages are designed to cater to modern travellers seeking physical vitality and emotional balance, the organisation says.
Packages are available in several destinations - including Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Selangor.
Tourism Malaysia is partnering with 12 leading industry players - including travel agencies, hotels, and wellness centres to craete 36 different wellness packages, new bub Travel Mole reported.
Guests can stay at top resort properties including Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur (above) and The Datai in Langkawi.
Malaysia is home to 365 registered spas under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, offering an array of different therapies.
These range from hot stone massages and aromatherapy to hydrotherapy, herbal baths, and Ayurvedic treatments.
Urutan Malaysia is a signature massage technique.
The packages also comprise nature-based excursions that connect travellers with local life.
These include visits to fruit farms, coffee roasters and herb growers and exploring rural landscapes.
“These thoughtfully curated packages are designed to cater to the growing demand for travel that supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”
Monday, 19 May 2025
Wine and food to the fore as small producers get together
Enjoy visiting smaller wine producers? Fancy a day or two in the Yarra Valley?
The Shortest Lunch festival returns on June 20-21 with 13 family-run wineries linking up for two days of cool-climate wines, hearty winter fare, fireside tastings and live music, all in celebration of the winter solstice.The Shortest Lunch offers the chance to meet the makers behind the cellar doors and discover small-batch wines.
Guests will be able to taste over 100 wines, including exclusive aged and new-release drops, with food menus that span wood-fired flatbreads, slow-cooked ragu, vegan Mediterranean fare, and spiced apple desserts, all priced under $25.
Tickets start at $35 for a full weekend pass (including a souvenir tasting glass), with Wine & Dine ($70) and VIP packages ($100) also available.
The line-up of participating wineries includes: Boat O'Craigo, Fin Wines, Helen's Hill Estate, Seville Estate. Seville Hill, Soumah (a must-visit), Steels Gate, Sutherland Estate, Tokar Estate, Yering Farm, Bilanook Estate, Whispering Hills and Yileena Park.
See www.shortestlunch.com.au for tickets and more information on the wineries, menus, ticket types and transportation.
War zone no more: a beach getaway with a fascinating story
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Fancy getting a group together to really get away from it all?
The image above certainly stirred my interest,, even though I have never visited Sri Lanka and have no immediate plans to do so.
Teardrop Hotels has just unveiled Kalkudah Beach House, which will be open for stays from June 1.
The secluded retreat is on Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast and is a six-hour drive from Colombo, 35 kilometres north of Batticaloa and an hour’s drive from Polonnaruwa.
Kalkudah Beach House is set within a 25-acre coconut estate - it doesn't get much more country that that - with direct access to Kalkudah Bay, a stretch of soft, golden sand and calm waters.
The Main House was originally acquired as a family holiday home in the 1970s and known as Eastern Breeze Estate. During Sri Lanka’s 26-year civil war, the estate was abandoned and intermittently occupied by both the Sri Lankan military and Tamil Tigers.
Fishermen bring in their daily catch right in front of the hotel and a la carte dining features dishes like sea crab and grilled reef fish.
Seniors in one Australian state to enjoy free weekend public transport

Good news for local seniors who love travelling in the Australian state of Victoria.
In a move aimed at easing cost of living pressures and encouraging regional exploration, the state government is to make all public transport free on weekends to holders of Victorian Seniors cards from January 1, 2026.
The initiative will allow more than 650,000 seniors to travel by train, tram or bus for free across the entire state on weekends - saving regular travellers up to $360 a year, local media reported.
Seniors currently enjoy free travel on weekends within two local fare zones, but pay for longer journeys.
Under the new plan, restrictions will be lifted, offering free weekend travel across all 16 fare zones, from outlying areas including Wodonga, Warrnambool and beyond.
“This is about making it easier for seniors to see family, enjoy a day out with the grandkids or experience the best of Victoria - without the extra cost,” said Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan.
The policy builds on a regional fare cap introduced in 2023, which significantly reduced concession fares - cutting the cost of trips like Bendigo to Melbourne by more than half.
Seniors will continue to get a 50% discount on weekday fares, but on weekends, they won’t pay a cent,” said Minister for Public Transport Gabrielle Williams.”
To access the free weekend travel, passengers must use a Senior Myki transport card and carry their Victorian Seniors Card while touching on and off as usual. While the system will still record trips, no fares will be deducted.
To be eligible for a Victorian Seniors Card, residents must be aged 60 or over, a permanent resident of the state, and work fewer than 35 hours per week.
The deal will not extend to visitors from interstate and overseas.
Sunday, 18 May 2025
Australian-owned Scotch whisky distiller on the move

Bladnoch is not only Scotland's oldest private Scotch whisky distillery: it also Australian owned.
Bladnoch is aiming to lift its profile in the homeland of owner David Prior by releasing 8-year-old and 16-year-old single malt whiskies to the Australian market.
Melbourne-born and -raised Prior, a powerhouse in the yoghurt and packaging industries, purchased the Lowlands distillery a decade ago when it had been mothballed for some time. He became the first Australian to own a Scotch whisky distillery.
Bladnoch's spirits are now being rolled out globally.
Dr Nick Savage, Master Distiller at Bladnoch Distillery, said: "At Bladnoch, our whiskies are a true reflection of our passion for innovation and craftsmanship. Each expression is a result of our dedication to exploring unique maturation techniques in our whisky-making process to create indulgent single malts with deep, complex flavours.
"We lead with a taste-first approach, imparting our bold Galloway spirit into each of the intricately crafted expressions we create. Bladnoch 8 Year Old's American oak red wine casks deliver a vibrant, fruit-forward profile, while Bladnoch 16 Year Old, matured in oloroso sherry casks, brings notes of dark fruit and spice."
Bladnoch 8 Year Old has been matured in two different American oak red cask styles one after the other and has an ABV of 46.7 ABV. Bladnoch 16 Year Old is matured exclusively in oloroso sherry casks and also weighs in at 46.7% .
I haven't tried them yet, but hope to.
The whiskies are made in the distillery's 208-year-old bluestone warehouses. Dating back to 1817, Bladnoch Distillery is one of the oldest single malt Scotch whisky producers in the world. It is located at Bladnoch, near Wigtown, in Dumfries and Galloway in south-west Scotland.
Bladnoch 8-Year-Old retails for $125 and Bladnoch 16-Year-Old retails for $230.
Contact www.iconicbeverages.com.au and see www.bladnoch.com.
Unrest in Champagne as workers strike

There is unrest at some of the major Champagne Houses with workers going on strike this week over pay rates and job security.
Workers at Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy Champagne houses in Reims walked out - and employees from Pernod Ricard’s G.H. Mumm and Perrier-Jouët joined the strike action, industry website www.just-drinks.com reported.
The protests highlighted growing discontent among staff in the LVMH wine and spirits arm.
Unions says that cost-cutting measures are putting jobs and livelihoods at risk.
While Pernod Ricard employees were also involved in the Reims demonstrations, the strike action from LVMH staff comes at a turbulent time for the group’s drinks division.
LVMH’s wine and spirits business is under financial strain following years of expansion. The Financial Times has reported the division made a loss of €1.5 billion in 2024.
The downturn is blamed on aggressive price increases, underperforming acquisitions, and a costly push into direct-to-consumer channels. Sales have dropped back to near-2019 levels.
Pernod Ricard workers, meanwhile, protested outside the Mumm cellars.
Stéphane Levasseur, secretary of the economic and social committee at Mumm, told Just Drinks that around 60 Mumm employees took part in the strike.
He cited two key reasons for the stoppage: a failure to secure wage increases in annual negotiations and concerns over the “potential sale of Mumm by Pernod Ricard to another buyer”.
“There will certainly be other strike movements in the coming weeks,” Levasseur said. "And these will be amplified if the sale of Mumm Champagne is confirmed.”
Thai tourism glitches cause industry concern

Thailand's continued upward trajectory in the tourism industry has stuttered, provoking concern among hoteliers and other businesses.
Not only are there no positive factors supporting growth, but negative influences are compounding, The Nation newspaper in Bangkok reported.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported the number of foreign tourists between January 1-May 11 this year stood at 12,948,032 - a decrease of 1.04% compared to the same period last year.
But the growing strength of the Thai currency - making Thailand more expensive for visitors - as well as competition from several other Asian destinations is provoking concern, particularly a drop in visitors from China.
Thienprasit Chaiyaphatranan, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), has reported that most hoteliers expect a year-on-year decline in international guests in the traditional quieter second quarter of the year, especially in the central and southern regions. Around 25% of respondents expect the number of Chinese tourists to drop by more than 30%.
The average hotel occupancy rate in April 2025 was 63%, down from the previous month, in line with that drop in international arrivals, especially from China.
Chinese travellers are reportedly concerned about safety issues in Thailand.
But Thienprasit added that tourism in April remained vibrant, largely due to the Songkran Festival, which attracted both Thai and international tourists.
“At the same time, regional competitors like Vietnam and Malaysia are aggressively promoting tourism, offering incentives, cutting costs, and adjusting policies to attract more visitors,” he said.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) this week unveiled 12 travel campaigns tailored to a variety of lifestyle subcultures, aimed at boosting domestic tourism during the green season to counter falling international visitation.
Image: Phuket: Nelly Lo.scopio.com
Saturday, 17 May 2025
Done and dusted: all change in the Hunter Valley
There has been a changing of the guard in the Hunter Valley with Bimbadgen Estate chief winemaker Richard Done (above) resigning to concentrate on his own brand: John Wallace Wines.
Done, who learned his trade at Hunter icons Scarborough and Thomas Wines, has been chief winemaker and head of production, sales and distribution at Bimbadgen and Night Merchant Distillery for almost eight years.
"I will be going full steam ahead with my side hustle now to be the big hustle," Done said.
"I will also be offering consulting for any wine or spirits brands that need the extra love."
Done's replacement at Bimbidgen will be familiar Hunter face Michael Hatcher,
Hatcher was the long-time general manager and winemaker at another leading Hunter producer, Hungerford Hill, when it was very high profile.
He was most recently manager and winemaker at Bunnamagoo in Mudgee.
Bimbadgen, in a prime location in Pokolbin, is one of the leading wine producers in the Hunter.
New day trip offers overseas visitors a slice of rural Australia
International visitors to Melbourne are about to be offered a day tour to the Murray River and a river trip on a traditional paddle steamer.
Day tours from Melbourne take overseas tourists to Phillip Island, Puffing Billy, the Great Ocean Road, Ballarat and the Yarra Valley - but this will be the first to offer a typical Murray experience.
Melbourne-based tour company Local Way Tours, established in 2022, is to launch a day tour from Melbourne to Echuca, where guests will enjoy a one-hour cruise on Murray River Paddlesteamers’ historic PS Canberra.
Starting from June 1 the full-day ‘Murray River Paddlesteamer and Wine Tour’ is designed primarily for international guests.
The 11-hour itinerary takes in Hanging Rock, the painted silos at Rochester, a cruise on Australia’s longest river, the Murray, native wildlife at the Kyabram Fauna Park and wine tasting at Mitchelton Wines on the way back to Melbourne.
The new trip will run every Wednesday to Sunday from Melbourne with a standard cost of $230 per person, or $190 for children.
Friday, 16 May 2025
Kiwis warned about travel to the US

New Zealanders have been warned to be careful if they intend to visit the United States.
The New Zealand Foreign Affairs Ministry this week updated its travel advice for Kiwis travelling to the US for the first time since Donald Trump became president for the second time.
It warned they could be detained, deported or banned from re-entering the country if they don't meet strict requirements.
MFAT said in a statement that 17 New Zealand passport holders had sought assistance since November 2024 because they have experienced immigration difficulties in the US.
MFAT said the update followed a routine review of the US travel advisory which was last fully reviewed in 2023.
While the travel advice level for Kiwis heading to the US remains at Level 2 “Exercise increased caution” - the advisory now includes more cautionary wording about the potential for detention at the border.
It also warns travellers about laptops, mobile phones and other electronic devices potentially being subject to border security inspection.
Otago and Auckland universities have already alerted academic staff to the potential issues they may face if travelling to the US.
Otago University Professor of international relations Robert Patman says he would not travel to the US at present, and he thinks the MFAT travel advice is cautionary for anyone who may have criticised the Trump administration in any way.
Image: Andrew Zuber, Scop.io
Corona remains the world’s most-valuable beer brand

The report shows that eight of the world’s top 10 beer brands are now owned by global giant AB InBev, with Budweiser ranked second, Modelo fourth and Michelob ULTRA fifth.
Corona’s international success in 2024 included double-digit growth outside of its native Mexico, and significantly, triple-digit gains for alcohol-free Corona Cero.
Corona’s “Corona 100” platform will feature anniversary events across global markets throughout 2025, positioning the brand at the centre of both celebration and innovation.
he said.
Thursday, 15 May 2025
JW Marriott hotel brand makes its New Zealand debut
JW Marriott Auckland Executive Suite
JW Marriott Auckland was designed by renowned Singaporean architecture firm O37 and draws on New Zealand's art, culture, and natural beauty.
The hotel has 271 guest rooms and 15 suites along with and all guest rooms come complete with yoga mats and risers, enhanced by an in-room program of wellness and workout routines (sounds scary!)
"I am honoured to bring the JW Marriott vision of luxury and well-being to life in this vibrant city," says GM Girish Talreja.
For reservations and more information, please see: www.jwmarriottauckland.com
Cruise is back with a bang - and new Australian flavours
A celebrity hangout that often boasts the best view in Sydney has reopened after extensive renovations.
Cruise Bar & Restaurant at the Overseas Passenger Terminal offers front-row views of the Sydney Opera House and ferries heading to Circular Quay has just reopened after months of work and boasts it is "arriving with a whole new look, feel, and flavour."So think great vistas (except when a giant cruise ship is docked) a modern Australian menu, and cocktail list showcasing Australian native botanicals.
Head chef Han Chen (ex-Amare, Felix), says his new menu features dishes like bush tomato butter mussels, pan-seared Humpty Doo barramundi with macadamia cream, and confit duck risotto with butternut squash and crispy saltbush.
The Grande Cruise Seafood Tower showcases freshly shucked Royal Miyagi oysters, Australian prawns, scallop ceviche, and scallop mousse zucchini flowers.
The drinks list from Tom Bulmer (Margaret, O Bar, Jane) highlights creations like Lilly Flower with raspberry, lilly pilly, Casamigos tequila, and hibiscus, while the Afternoon Fashion reinvents a classic Old Fashioned with croissant-washed whisky and toasted wattle seed.

Taking over the top floor is Melba’s Rooftop, a new events space named for Dame Nellie Melba - and the namesake of a storied Australian cargo ship.
“Sydney has changed a lot in the past decade, but there’s always been a place for a venue like Cruise,” says general manager John Harvey. “It’s got history, it’s got views that stop you in your tracks, and now it’s got an elevated experience to match.
“We’ve carefully curated an offering that reflects Sydney’s evolving food and drink culture. From the menu to the design, every detail has been considered to create an experience that feels fresh, exciting, and uniquely Cruise.
"This isn’t just a comeback - it’s a statement, and we can’t wait to welcome Sydney back.”
For more details and to view the full menu, see www.cruisebar.com.au
Cruise and Melba’s are a part of the C!NC hospitality group. Discover more at c-inc.com.au.
Sweet and savoury: Meet a most unusual whiskey

Thinking outside the box has paid dividends for one inventive Cambodian migrant to the US.
Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey Flavoured Liqueur was founded by the Yengs in 2018 and is now available in Australia and New Zealand.
The global Pernod Ricard group is now on board.
2 parts Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
¾ parts Tequila
1/3 parts Aperol
2 parts Grapefruit Juice
Soda Water
Build the ingredients over ice and top with soda water. Garnish with lemon or lime wheel.
¾ parts Tequila
½ parts Sour Mix
2 parts Pineapple Juice
Shake all ingredients and pour into an unsalted margarita glass. Garnish with pineapple and lime.
Wednesday, 14 May 2025
Saddle up for a unique vineyard experience

Adelaide Hills winery Petaluma is the 29th wine producer to join Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia, a collective of premium producers offering winery experiences across the country.
Petaluma makes premium wines from vineyard sites across South Australia, including the Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra and the Clare Valley.
Located just 40 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD, in Woodside, the Petaluma cellar door offers a range of experiences along with spectacular views.
Petaluma is also home to the Croser sparkling range, although founder Brian Croser is no longer involved.
Petaluma's tourism offerings include a Private Horse Trail Ride experience which invites guests on a guided horseback journey through the vineyards, complete with commentary on the history of the brand, which dates back to 1976.
Horses are matched to guests’ needs from nearby Hallmark Farm in Woodside, owned by dual Olympian Megan Jones and husband James Deacon. The ride is followed by a private wine tasting, finishing with a platter of savoury and sweet delicacies paired with a glass of Croser Vintage Sparkling, served outside on the spectacular deck or by the fire in the cooler months.
Guests can also discover the Museum Release Glass Room Experience, which features a mix of super-premium current and back vintage wines from the Petaluma Museum Cellar matched with a three-course tasting menu from Woodside Providore.
Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia’s executive officer Sarah Myers said she was thrilled to welcome Petaluma to the collective.
“Petaluma brings a unique new dimension to Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia,” she said. “Guests can taste wines not only from the cool-climate Adelaide Hills, but from iconic regions around South Australia – providing them with a diverse experience that broadens their perspective on South Australian wines,” she said.
Andrew McDowell from Vinarchy, the owners of Petaluma, said “We are very proud to have Petaluma join this exceptional cohort of Australia’s premium wineries.
“Our experiences focus on highlighting the region, and with Petaluma we are blessed to be in the heart of the beautiful Adelaide Hills,” said McDowell.
Singapore ready to celebrate major milestone

Planning to be in Singapore in August? Prepare for a busy time.
Singapore will mark a significant milestone on August 9 with the Asian nation celebrating its 60th anniversary of independence.
The city state has prepared a line-up of events to celebrate.
Singapore is implementing a vision for the future through its Tourism 2040 strategy.
Visitors can join joining Singaporeans in celebrating through special arts and heritage events taking place over the coming months leading up to National Day on August 9.
Highlights include:
Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art at National Gallery Singapore (from July 2025): Spanning the 19th century to the present, the exhibition will help visitors better understand Singapore’s history through art.
National Museum’s Experience at the Glass Rotunda (July 2025): This multimedia journey by the National Museum of Singapore will explore what has defined Singapore’s place in the world and the importance of the sea in shaping its history over the past 700 years. The installation includes RFID wristbands, providing an interactive way to engage with Singapore’s history.
National Day Parade (August 9): While tickets to the parade itself are limited, visitors can join in the celebrations in the Marina Bay area. They will be aerial fly pasts and fireworks displays.
Singapore Biennale 2025 (October 2025 to March 2026): The Singapore Biennale 2025 will allow visitors to explore the nation’s evolving identity as contemporary art transforms familiar public spaces including Fort Canning Park and the Rail Corridor.
Singapore’s usual calendar of festivals and events will also continue. See What’s Happening in Singapore | Festivals & Events.
As well as leisure tourism, a major focus is also on the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector, which is expected to triple its tourism receipts by 2040, contributing 10% of overall tourism revenue.
See www.VisitSingapore.com