Sydney to pull out all the stops to ensure a Merry Christmas

Sydney always pulls out the stops to keep tourists entertained and Christmas is offers a feast of free events, markets, choirs, trees and lights bringing festive cheer to Australia's biggest city.

Think carol singers in action across the city, visits from Santa to a new Christmas fair and the tallest Christmas tree in the region.

The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, says the city's festive program is accessible and inclusive, with something for everyone and all ages.

“Christmas in Sydney - it really is the most wonderful time of the year,” she said.

“We’re spending more than $4.3 million on our celebrations and expanding our program so more people than ever can enjoy the fun.

"The city comes alive with celebration at Christmas time - we invite everyone to make the most of the festive season with our packed Sydney Christmas program."

Highlights will include the Martin Place Christmas tree, which for more than 50 years the Martin Place Christmas tree has been the centre of Sydney’s yuletide celebrations.

The tree stands 25-metres tall and features 800 branches dressed with 15,000 native Australian flowers, 330 specially created glossy baubles, 110,000 LEDs and a 3.5 metre colour-changing star.

It will be illuminated daily from 8pm to midnight until January 4 with light and music shows taking place every 15 minutes.

Five family-friendly concerts will feature live performances by Royston Noell, Mitch Tambo, The Listies and Junkyard Beats, along with festive activities, food trucks and visits from Santa on November 29: Pirrama Park, Pyrmont; November 30: Turruwul Park, Rosebery; December 6: Bicentennial Park, Glebe; December 7: Reg Bartley Oval, Rushcutters Bay and December 14: Alexandria Park, Alexandria.

The Surry Hills Christmas Fair on December 13 will be held from 11am to 10pm on Crown Street, between Foveaux and Cleveland streets.

Local businesses and restaurants will extend onto the street from 11am, with roving performers, Christmas shopping stalls, a pop-up cinema screening Elf and games,

The festive Martin Place Christmas Markets will be be held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in December until Christmas, from 11am to 9:30pm, while Pitt Street Mall will shine under a canopy of two-metre stars and 75,000 twinkling lights, creating the perfect backdrop for late-night shopping.

From December 1-24, choirs will perform live beside the Martin Place Christmas tree every evening from 6pm to 8pm, and at Customs House Square from December 16-24 from 6pm to 8pm.

For full details, dates and timings for the 2025 Sydney Christmas program visit sydneychristmas.com.au.

Anyone can be stopped and searched by police in Melbourne

Visiting Melbourne in Australia this summer?

Be prepared to be stopped and searched by police. There is no need for you to be suspected of a crime.

A wave of violent incidents in the city - some associated with migrant youths - has resulted in the addition of new "stop and search" powers for police by the state government in Victoria.

Police say the stops will be the equivalent of random breath tests used to catch drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

A “random selection of people using a thoroughfare” by foot or by car could be subjected to a pat-down search - without warrant or reasonable suspicion - at any time across inner Melbourne over the next six months," local media reported.

Police are adamant the stops will be random.

“It matters not your ethnicity. It matters not your race. It matters not your culture, age, any demographic,” Victoria Police deputy commissioner Bob Hill told reporters.

“We focus on the offending type, and we focus on preventing [certain] crimes from occurring in the first place, by a general deterrence approach.”

The expansion of search powers will apply across the CBD, Docklands, Southbank, the sporting and entertainment precinct and parts of East Melbourne and South Melbourne, until May 29, 2026.

During that time, police and protective service officers (PSOs) have the ability to randomly stop and search anyone, including by using an electronic wand or a pat-down.

People may be asked to take off items of outer clothing such as headwear and jackets, and to remove items from bags or pockets. Vehicles can also be searched.

Police have said no racial profiling would occur - but civil liberties groups are incensed.

Airbus failure causes global flight chaos

An Airbus software glitch is causing chaos around the globe, with thousands of weekend flights cancelled.

Airbus said it was ordering immediate updates to 6,000 of its widely used A320 range of jets - affecting more than half the global fleet.

The news came during the busiest travel weekend of the year in the United States and is causing disruption at airports around the world.

Airbus ordered airlines to undertake software modifications on its A320s after it discovered the risk of errors in the plane's flight control systems.

It was among the largest recalls affecting Airbus in its 55-year history. The plane is flown by more than 350 airlines and some 11,300 A320s are in operation.

The fix involves reverting to earlier software and is relatively simple, but reportedly must be carried out before the planes can fly again, a bulletin issued to airlines says.

The world's largest A320 operator, American Airlines, said some 340 of its 480 A320 aircraft would need the fix. It said it mostly expected these to be completed by Saturday with about two hours required for each plane.

Other airlines affected include Lufthansa, United and easyJet.

In Australia, thousands of travellers’ flight plans were thrown into chaos.

Budget airline Jetstar has cancelled or delayed 90 flights while rolling out urgent software updates to 34 of its planes.

French government offers millions to support vine pull scheme

The French Ministry of Agriculture this week unveiled a rescue package for the country’s ailing wine sector that will include a €130 million ($231 million AUD) funding package to support vineyard removal.

It comes comes after grape growers protested in the streets of the southern city of Beziers calling for urgent government and EU support as the sector struggles with a combination of extreme weather conditions, soaring costs and falling sales, news hub the drinks business reported.

The goal of the new support package is to "stabilise the wine market and support long-term solutions".

A ministry statement said: “The government is allocating €130 to fund a new, permanent vine-pulling plan requested by the wine industry in order to rebalance the supply and restore the viability of struggling farms in the most vulnerable regions".

Minister of agriculture, agri-food and food sovereignty of France, Annie Genevard, announced the package to sector stakeholders at a major trade fair, SITEVI, in Montpellier. It also includes a loan component.

French officials have lowered projection for this year’s wine output to 36 million hectolitres, down from the 37.4 million forecast last month and 1% below last year’s harvest, citing a heatwave in August.

The revised forecast, based on the latest harvest results, was 16% below the five-year average.

Genevard has also urged the European Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen to “mobilise the European crisis reserve, particularly to finance the crisis distillation of non-marketable surpluses, primarily in co-operative cellars.”

In the statement, Genevard added: “This new very significant financial effort, despite a particularly difficult budgetary context and subject to the adoption of a finance bill, demonstrates the Government’s determination to sustainably save our viticulture and enable it to bounce back."

She insisted it was not “yet another emergency plan to correct a structural imbalance,” but “an investment to give a future” to the wine industry.

The wine and spirits sector supports 600,000 jobs in France, and accounts for €32 billion in turnover, half of which is exports.

The Béziers demonstration on November 15, organised by the Aude winegrowers union, highlighted the plight of French winegrowers.

Damien Onorre, president of the union, told Le Monde newspaper: “For three years, we have suffered droughts and heat waves above 40°C. I have lost 50% of my production over this period.”

Watermans brings tastes of the Levant to Barangaroo

The burgeoning Barangaroo gourmet precinct in Sydney has been boosted by the arrival of newcomer Watermans, an eastern Mediterranean restaurant from The Bentley Restaurant Group.

Operated by leading Australian hospitality operators Nick Hildebrandt and Brent Savage, Watermans has chef Darryl Martin (formerly of Barzaari) at the helm.

Watermans is located within the recently completed One Sydney Harbour Lendlease development in Barangaroo, just metres from Sydney Harbour.

“2025 has been a huge year for The Bentley Group," said sommelier and co-owner Hildebrandt. "We started the year with the launch of Eleven Barrack and we’re ending the year back in Barangaroo with Watermans, right in time for summer.”

The 120-seat venue houses two pergolas wrapped in mature greenery, with a "modern-luxe interior featuring timber veneer finishes, bespoke lighting and an open kitchen with a custom-made wood-fired grill and oven".

Co-owner and chef Savage said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Darryl into The Bentley Group family. The menu for Watermans is inspired by the cuisine of the Levant and highlights the best of Australian produce.

"It has a strong emphasis on vegetable-forward dishes, and it’s been fun to collaborate with Darryl, whose cooking I’ve long admired, especially his work at Barzaari.”

Highlight dishes from the opening menu include: hummus with green zhoug and mint; labneh with salted cucumber, pomegranate and lemon jam; raw tuna with watermelon, yoghurt and fig leaf oil; wood-fired scallop with pomegranate, brown butter and sesame praline; and whole wood-fired flounder with broad beans and smoked tomato savoro.

For meat lovers, there is roasted chicken with with preserved lemon, parsley and green olive; and lamb shoulder with harissa, black lime, cinnamon and toum.

Desserts include halva ice cream, date granita, must vinegar, and brik bougatsa, cherry jam and aniseed sorbet.

Watermans is open daily from noon for lunch and dinner at R1/88 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, Sydney. See https://www.bentleyrestaurantgroup.com.au/watermanssydney

New releases mark a rejuvenation milestone for Henschke

Three new Adelaide Hills white wine releases from the Henschke family represent a resilient return. The wines are from vineyards that were affected by the 2019 Cudlee Creek bushfire that caused more than $200 million in damage.

The new releases are the 2025 Percival's Hill Grüner Veltliner, the 2025 Joseph Hill Gerwürzttaminer and 2025 Green's Hill Riesling, all from what is rated as an exceptional vintage.

"The first release of grüner veltliner, gewürztraminer and riesling from our Lenswood Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills since the Cudlee Creek bushfire in 2019 marks an exciting milestone for Henschke," says viticulturist Prue Henschke.

"Our team has devoted countless hours to regenerating the 45-hectare property, from training over 65,000 vines on newly installed trellises to planting hundreds of native trees and shrubs to create habitats for wildlife, improving the soil with compost, and ensuring our vineyard sits in a healthy balance with the natural landscape.

"It is a pleasure to share these wines and celebrate the rejuvenation of this unique, cool-climate site."

The fire, which broke out in "catastrophic" conditions in the Adelaide Hills on December 20, 2019, started after a powerline was dislodged by a falling tree. It destroyed more than 70 homes. 

Someone will buy wine; win a trip to Antarctica

 Sustainability-driven wine brand Tread Softly is just a few bottles away from planting its three-
millionth tree and to celebrate the milestone it has launched a competition that offers the chance to win a trip to Antarctica. 

The giveaway offers Australians and New Zealanders the chance to win the rare prize. 

Antarctica Awaits will send one lucky winner and a guest to explore the world’s last great wilderness - the icy expanse of Antarctica - aboard a National Geographic expedition cruise.

The 10-day adventure begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, where the winners will prepare for their voyage before boarding the National Geographic Explorer. 

On a trip led by naturalists, biologists, and geologists, guests will experience Drake Passage, hike glaciers, kayak among icebergs, and possibly witness an abundance of wildlife - from humpback whales and orcas to Adélie penguins.

The trip includes return flights, four-star accommodation in both Ushuaia (Argentina) and Puerto Natales (Chile), an eight-day cruise aboard the National Geographic Explorer in a twin cabin that is valued at over $18,000 per person with meals and activities included, as well as $500 spending money, merchandise and Tread Softly wine.

Wendy Rend, brand partnership lead at Australian Geographic says: “It has been a pleasure to partner with Tread Softly and highlight their inspiring work through the Antarctica Awaits experience. It’s always uplifting to see brand’s values carried through so clearly in what they do.”

Since 2019, Tread Softly has planted one Australian native tree for every six bottles of wine sold, contributing to the growth of the Tread Softly Forest within Western Australia’s Yarra Yarra
biodiversity corridor. 

The initiative helps reduce the brand’s carbon footprint. 

The Antarctica Awaits promotion runs until January 31, 2026. For a chance to win purchase a bottle of Tread Softly from Dan Murphy’s, BWS or independent retailers before scanning the QR code on the pack or visiting www.treadtoantarctica.com. 

Sofitel adds some festive romance to your hotel stay

Soiftel hotels want to add a little fragrance and romance to your stay.

This festive season, Sofitel is offering special packages that combine sound, light, and scent "to create a moment of true connection".

The Candle Experience is described as an immersive in-room ritual "that transforms guest rooms and suites into a shimmering sanctuary of candlelight, scent and sound".

Designed for those seeking calm during the holiday rush, the experience aims to blend "Parisian romance with modern luxury, inviting guests to pause, reconnect and savour an intimate escape".

The Candle Experience begins flickering light as hundreds of LED candles bathe your hotel room in a soft glow.

The air is perfumed with the Signature Sofitel fragrance, a blend of bergamot, white rose and sandalwood, while a curated Devialet soundscape envelops guests in high-fidelity calm.

With a bottle of Pommery Champagne chilled and waiting, and specially crafted festive treats, your suite "becomes a private stage for an unforgettable shared moment".

“The Candle Experience is Sofitel's invitation to experience luxury as a sanctuary - a moment of peace and presence,” says Nicolas Gronier, a global brand experience leader.

Every Candle Experience includes a room filled with candles, the signature Sofitel Scent and a bottle of Pommery Champagne, with a high-tech Devialat speaker in-room offering a soundscape. 

Each participating Sofitel then adds its own touch. The experience is ultra-exclusive, with only one Candle Experience Suite available per hotel per night, so guests are encouraged to book early.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour offers the Candle Experience, along with chocolate-coated strawberries for $250 on top of your room rate.

At Sofitel Sydney Wentworth the experience is $199 and includes the Candle Experience, a box of Christmas-themed chocolates and a Sofitel Candle to take home.

Sofitel Queenstown also offers the Candle Experience for $250 NZD on top of the room rate.

Celebrating Tasmania and its seasonal bounty

 

Tasmania is renowned for hosting several outstanding festivals.

Events like Taste of Summer, Festivale and Dark Mofo are all major drawcards.

Less commercial and more connected, ECHO is the East Coast Harvest Odyssey festival, a smaller. more focussed "festival of the senses" that will run from March 13-15 in 2026.

The brainchild of singer and gin-brand owner Ange Boxall, ECHO has grown from small beginnings in 2019 into an event that Boxall describes as being "all about connection".

 


The event launch was held today in Hobart and full details are now available at echofestival.com.au.

ECHO is a festival of storytelling with close connections to First Nations culture, but also indigenous food experiences, hands-on adventures and music.

There is also plenty of wine, with several local producers involved - Spring Vale, Gala Estate, Mayfield Estate and Craigie Knowe among them - as well as Boxall's Spirited Gin brand.

From bush foods and medicine to morning yoga and drinks masterclasses, ECHO showcases live music, art, culture, storytelling and knowledge-sharing. It is a celebration both of harvest and the laid-back East Coast lifestyle.

"Our theme, Layers: Woven in Time, celebrates the people, stories and landscapes that give the East Coast its unique rhythm," says Boxall (below, at the launch).

 

"This year’s early program release features coastal storytelling with surf legend Dustin Hollick, woodworking using rare Hydrowood timbers, a cultural creative space with palawa creative Melissa West, blacksmithing in a historic forge and more.

"The music line-up brings together a powerful mix of emerging voices and established artists from Tasmania and beyond. Across intimate stages and open coastal spaces, musicians will share original sounds rooted in place, story and community. Expect soaring vocals, rhythmic collaborations and atmospheric performances that echo the landscape itself."

The much-loved Native Bounty Feast will also return as the key element of the opening evening.

ECHO, held in Swansea. is supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania.

See https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/90c6baf5-d569-408a-bc77-91650ed7ff7b

Moran enters the burger business

Celebrated chef and restaurateur Matt Moran - known for a four-decade career rooted in fine dining - is going into the burger business.

Moran has announced the launch of Proper Burgers, a brand he says is built on his philosophy of simple food, done well.

The brand is making its debut this summer, with the first outlet opening at Optus Stadium in Perth.

"I have been cooking my whole life, and one thing I have learnt is that simple food, done properly is hard to beat," Moran said. 

"That’s what Proper Burgers is all about. For me, that means starting with grass-fed beef, seasoned properly and cooked with care. It means soft milk buns, sharp cheese and sauces we make ourselves. 

"It’s the kind of burger you remember - simple, satisfying, and bloody delicious. Big flavour. Nothing fancy, just damn good burgers.”

Moran says he sees Proper Burgers as the foundation of a broader national vision, with plans to expand the brand beyond Optus Stadium. 

Further details on the brand’s next chapter will be announced in due course.

Proper Burgers will be open on all major event days at Optus Stadium on Aisle 128, 

Mount Pleasant joins wine tourism collective

Historic Mount Pleasant Wines in the Hunter Valley is the latest producer to join the Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia (UWEA) wine tourism collective.

One of the Hunter Valley’s most storied wineries, Mount Pleasant was founded in 1921 by Maurice O’Shea, who is widely regarded as one of the fathers of modern Australian winemaking for his pioneering approach to table wines, innovative blending techniques and use of French oak, at a time when fortified wines dominated the market.

Located in Pokolbin, a two-hour drive north of Sydney, Mount Pleasant offers visitors a heritage experience through its stylishly renovated cellar door and tasting programs.

Refurbed in 2022, Mount Pleasant’s cellar door is set within the original homestead buildings. The space offers an expanded tasting area, a private tasting room and a separate members’ lounge in the adjacent barn.

There’s also wine store described as “a Disneyland for wine lovers” housing some of Mount Pleasant’s oldest and most significant wines, where aficionados can purchase museum bottles.

Guests visiting the winery can choose from three Ultimate Winery Experiences ranging from $100 to $1000 per person.

Hosted by chief winemaker Adrian Sparks (when available), ‘The Maurice O’Shea Legacy’ experience is an immersive journey featuring a guided vineyard and winery walk, tank and barrel tasting, private tasting of rare wines and a shared-style lunch at the winemaker’s table.

‘The Mothervine Experience’ is a captivating journey through the origins of Australia’s pinot noir, which reveals how 70% of the country’s greatest pinot noir vineyards trace their lineage back to a single vine still thriving in Mount Pleasant’s historic Mothervine vineyard.

A guided vineyard walk is followed by a pinot noir-focussed winery tour and tasting followed by a charcuterie lunch.

‘Love on Mount Pleasant’ includes a self-guided tour of the estate’s private art and photography collection, which include pieces by renowned Australian artist and Archibald Prize winner Garry Shead, before a guided tasting of eight Mount Pleasant Wines accompanied by olives, cheese and lavosh.

Ultimate Winery Experiences executive officer Sarah Myers said she was thrilled to welcome Mount Pleasant to the collective.

“Mount Pleasant is a prestigious winery renowned for producing benchmark Hunter Valley styles such as semillon and shiraz, and with its stylish new cellar door and incredible art collection, it’s an unmissable Hunter Valley wine tourism destination,” she said.

“The site is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, dating back to 1880, so there’s an incredible amount of history for guests to unearth when they visit."

Mount Pleasant joins nearby Hunter Valley winery Audrey Wilkinson, and fellow New South Wales wineries Printhie Wines and Swinging Bridge – both located in Orange – as members of the Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia collective.

Mount Pleasant is open seven days from 10am-5pm, and is located at 401 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin.

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Discover more at www.ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au.

Buy some silly socks; a shoe-in to help women in need

Today is a good day to buy - and wear - some silly socks.

Global hotel giant Accor is celebrating Australia's first-ever National Silly Sock Day - a new initiative created in partnership with DV Collective to raise awareness and essential funds for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

The launch coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the beginning of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from today until December. 10

This year's UN Women theme focuses on digital violence against women, an increasingly urgent issue that affects millions worldwide.

National Silly Sock Day reflects the group's belief in the power of community-led action.

Across Australia, more than 5,000 pairs of limited-edition socks are available for purchase from participating Accor hotels, with all proceeds going directly toward placing additional beds in domestic violence shelters that urgently need support.

Every pair sold helps provide safe nights for women and children when they need it most and helps expand DV Collective's rapidly growing network of shelters, frontline services and counselling organisations.

This year's inaugural Silly Sock design was created by Tshering Gyem from Mercure Perth, whose artwork was selected from entries across the Accor Pacific network.

At the top of the sock, red heart-shaped threads weave across the fabric, "symbolising the emotional bonds that connect Accor's teams, guests and partners".

Accor's partnership with DV Collective began earlier this year through the Accor Community Fund, with an initial $20,000 contribution made to support DV Collective's mission of reducing the impact of domestic and family violence in Australia.

The organisation works to eliminate the waitlists and resource shortages that prevent women from accessing safe accommodation, legal support, trauma recovery programmes, counselling and essential materials.

DV Collective now supports more than 300 frontline services nationwide, including 75 women's shelters, and has this year alone contributed an additional 80 beds, representing more than 29,000 safe nights, alongside more than 100,000 donated hygiene and essential items.

With incidents increasing and shelters under extraordinary pressure, their goal for 2026 is to place 500 new beds into the system, a target that National Silly Sock Day will directly contribute to.

Accor's Chief Operating Officer in the Pacific region, Adrian Williams, said the creation of National Silly Sock Day affirmed the hotel group's commitment.

“Domestic violence affects far too many families in Australia, and the lack of safe accommodation is one of the most critical barriers for women and children seeking help." he said.

"National Silly Sock Day is a simple but powerful way for our teams, guests and communities to come together and drive real impact. Every pair purchased brings us closer to ensuring that no woman or child is turned away when they need safety.”

National Silly Sock Day will be held annually on November 25, with a new sock design released each year.

Members of the public can purchase socks or donate directly by visiting dvcollective.org or by purchasing through participating Accor hotels.

Discover a new vineyard escape on the Great Ocean Road

 

Want to be among the first to check out chic new vineyard accommodation along the Great Ocean Road?

Basalt Retreat has just opened bookings for its new vineyard villas set among the vines of its 24-year-old near Port Fairy, where it grows pinot noir, tempranillo and riesling.

If you are looking for a gourmet-accented adults-only escape along the Great Ocean Road, these two villas - Pinot Noir and Tempranillo - might fit the bill.

Basalt's tasting room and eatery have proven popular with visitors, who can now, for the first time, stay for a few nights. 

Each villa stay includes a Queen bed with cloud-soft premium bedding; a selection of locally sourced snacks, wines and small-batch spirits; indoor fireplace for cooler evenings; a locally sourced breakfast hamper; kettle, toaster and coffee machine; a barbecue overlooking the vines and an in-room supper menu (pre-order required). 

Guests get a complimentary wine tasting at the cellar door and priority dining reservations. 

Villas cost from $495 per night with a two-night minimum stay, although one-night stays are available Sunday through Thursday.

"After years of dreaming, planning and careful craftsmanship, our boutique vineyard villas are now open for bookings," says vigneron/patron Shane Clancey. 

"Nestled within the vines of our 24-year-old vineyard, these architect-designed villas offer a rare experience on the Great Ocean Road. This is a retreat created for stillness, connection and quiet indulgence." 

It has been a while since I visited but Basalt is a delightful destination in a lovely location. 

For details see https://www.basaltwines.com.au/stay/

We’re thrilled to share something truly special. After years of dreaming, planning and careful craftsmanship, our boutique vineyard villas — Basalt Retreat — are now open for bookings. Nestled within the vines of our 24-year-old vineyard, these architect-designed villas offer a rare experience on the Great Ocean Road: a luxury stay immersed in nature, shaped by vineyard life, and made for slow, grounding moments. Wake to soft coastal light drifting through the vines. Settle in for long, Mediterranean-inspired lunches at the cellar door. Savour a glass of Pinot Noir on your private deck as the sun melts over the farm. This is a retreat created for stillness, connection and quiet indulgence.

Pirie Tasmania ups the ante in sparkling wine space

Pirie Tasmania has upped the ante with two new releases in the Australian premium sparkling wine space. 

Pirie has announced the launch of its Millésime Prestige Range, which it says is "a rare and refined expression" of Tasmania’s cool-climate potential. 

The range features the 2022 Blanc de Blancs and 2023 Vintage Rosé made at the Tamar Ridge facility in the north of the state. 

Millésime Prestige is "born from a philosophy that greatness can only be achieved when site, season, and skill align perfectly". 

Head winemaker Tom Wallace says these cuvées are drawn exclusively from Tamar Valley vineyards, where Tasmania’s cool climate and long, gentle seasons create sparkling wines of "extraordinary purity, tension, and elegance".

“These wines are a true expression of patience and provenance,” says Wallace.

 “They’re only made when the vintage is exceptional. 

“These wines are crafted for life’s most memorable moments. Whether it’s a milestone celebration, an intimate dinner, or simply elevating a quiet evening, Millésime Prestige brings a sense of occasion to every pour.”

The RRP is $100 per bottle, which includes a gift box. 

The wines are available exclusively online at pirietasmania.com.au and at the Tamar Ridge Cellar Door.

Sydney Opera House under fire for French wine deal

Sydney Opera House has found itself at the centre of a storm after signing a three-year promotional deal with Champagne House Pommery.

The taxpayer-funded venue has been criticised by a peak wine industry body for choosing to promote Champagne while local grape growers face oversupply crisis.

The NSW Wine industry has condemned the deal, calling it an insult to struggling local winemakers and grape growers at a time when the industry is facing its most challenging period in decades.

"The three-year partnership sees one of Australia's most iconic NSW Government supported venues turn its back on world-class NSW sparkling wine producers in favour of imported French Champagne," NSW Wine said in a media statement.

"The decision comes as NSW grape growers grapple with severe oversupply, with many pulling out vines and struggling to find markets for their fruit," NSW Wine president Mark Bourne said

"The partnership represents a missed opportunity to provide vital market access to local producers who are fighting for survival.

"While NSW grape growers face oversupply and struggle to find markets for their fruit, the Sydney Opera House - funded by NSW taxpayers - has chosen to import French Champagne instead of supporting our world-class local sparkling wine producers.

"This is an insult to the hundreds of families across our wine regions doing it tough, and it's a betrayal of the principle that NSW taxpayer-supported institutions should champion NSW businesses.

"NSW has sparkling wine producers from the Hunter Valley to Orange, the Southern Highlands and Tumbarumba to the Riverina, yet our own state institution has turned its back on them. Our winemakers don't need sympathy - they need customers, and our most iconic venue should be leading the way, not abandoning them when they need support most.

"The partnership creates the bizarre situation where international tourists visiting one of Australia's most recognisable landmarks will be served French Champagne while local producers struggle to survive."

Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM said she was "delighted with the new partnership" - a statement that has been met with anger by a local industry facing unprecedented challenges.

"While Applejack Hospitality's recent takeover of the Opera Bar has been a welcome return to showcasing local wines, this decision by the Sydney Opera House Trust undermines those efforts and demonstrates an outdated view of what taxpayer-supported venues should be doing to support local business," NSW Wine said

The decision follows the Art Gallery of NSW's partnership with Tasmanian producer House of Arras, raising serious questions about whether NSW's premier cultural institutions are committed to supporting the state's wine industry, the statement said.

"As we all strive to build more sustainable businesses, it's staggering that the Sydney Opera House feels proud and compelled to import sparkling wine from the other side of the world when it could be supporting businesses from any of our 16 wine regions," Bourne said.

"Taxpayer supported institutions have a responsibility to lead by example. This decision sends a terrible message not just to our industry, but to every NSW business that expects state venues to support local enterprise when it matters most.

"NSW Wine is calling on the Sydney Opera House Trust to reconsider its decision and demonstrate genuine commitment to supporting local producers during this challenging time for the industry."

* NSW Wine represents wine producers across the state's 16 wine regions, advocating for the industry and promoting NSW wines domestically and internationally.

Vietnam resorts target quick recovery after natural disasters

Some of Vietnam's leading tourist destination are racing to be ready for high season after after weeks of relentless rain and flooding.

The weather left historic cities in Central Vietnam submerged, mountain passes closed by landslides, and at least 55 people dead across six provinces, news hub Travel Mole reports.

As waters finally began to recede in parts of the region over the weekend, the scale of the devastation became clear. 

The popular city of Hoi An has been flooded three times within a month time.

The ancient UNESCO-listed town saw layers of mud coating its once-bustling walking streets after floodwaters retreated from the Hoai River.

Clean-up crews, armed with excavators and water tankers, fanned out across the town to scrape away sludge from sidewalks and shopfronts.

The middle section of popular Bach Dang Street, however, remained under about 40 centimetres of water.

Authorities have prioritized clearing the stretch from Chau Thuong Van to the iconic Pagoda Bridge to bring visitors back as quickly as possible.

Tourist boats continued to operate along the Hoai River even as workers raked mud into piles, removed debris, and pushed it back toward the river channel.

In coastal Nha Trang, entire neighbourhoods were submerged last week,

Deadly landslides ripped through highland routes near the Da Lat tourist hub, where hotel operators said bookings evaporated almost overnight as storms intensified.

Viet Nam Railways Corporation (VNR) on Friday announced the continued suspension of multiple passenger services departing from Hanoi, Danang and Ho Chi Minh City, as widespread flooding in the south-central region persists.

International airports were operating normally despite some flight delays.

The environment ministry said 55 people have died, with 13 still missing. More than 300,000 people remained without power over the weekend.

Image: Hoi An, Shirren Lee, Scop.io  

Ditch the pyjamas: American flyers told they need to dress better

Sean Duffy, the US secretary of transportation, doesn't want to punish airlines for cancelling flights or running late; but he does want passengers to dress smarter.

Duffy, you guessed it, is a Donald Trump appointee who clearly favours big business over the Average Joe.

Duffy this week kicked off a new "civility" campaign week that he calls “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You”. the New York Times reports. 

The campaign came with a 1960s-parody public service announcement that spliced together scenes of the country’s early air travellers, dressed in suits and hats, along with present-day clips of in-flight brawls and airport meltdowns.

In the background, Frank Sinatra sings “Come Fly With Me”.

 
The Transportation Department’s accompanying news release chastised fliers for forgetting to say “please” and “thank you” and for not helping older or pregnant passengers put their bags in the overhead bins.

“Are you dressing with respect?” asks the video. “Are you keeping control of your children?”

Data does back up the feeling that travellers in the US have become more unruly. 

Since 2019, the Federal Aviation Authority has reported a 400% increase of in-flight outbursts - ranging from disruptive behaviour to violence in the air. 

Duffy thinks getting passengers to dress better is one of the keys to reducing incidents. 

 

"Are you helping a pregnant woman or the elderly with placing their bags in the overhead bin?" he asks. "Are you dressing with respect?

"Are you keeping control of your children and helping them through the airport?

"Are you saying thank you to your flight attendants?

"Are you saying please and thank you in general?"

Sound like Americans need classes in how to behave like adult human beings. 

"Bringing civility back, I think, enhances the travel experience for everybody,” Duffy told Fox News. “Let’s maybe go back to an era where we didn’t wear our pajamas to the airport.”

While there is no doubt flying bogans are on the rise it is hard not to see the irony in taking advice on etiquette from a man whose boss likes to grab women "by the pussy", tells reporters to be "Quiet Piggy!" and how thinks his political opponents' opinions are "Punishable by Death".

 

And, unfortunately, the "dress better" initiative came just a few days after a Duffy decision to scrap a proposal that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for significant travel disruptions within carriers’ control. 

So airlines will not be held accountable for improving customer service.

* Sean Duffy is an American politician, attorney, and former television presenter who has been US secretary of transportation since January, 2025. 

Image: Erica Vigilante, Scop.io

Dr Seuss lands next to the d'Arenberg Cube

The whimsical artworks of Dr Seuss are back in Australia - at the d'Arenberg winery in McLaren Vale.

Harvey Galleries is presenting The Art of Dr Seuss in association with Art Evolution and d’Arenberg, Ultimate Winery Experiences reports.

From this weekend until April 26, 2026, a selection of art works from The Art of Dr Seuss Collection will be on display at the Modern Masters Marquee, adjacent to the d'Arenberg Cube.

Admission is free and visitors can explore and buy works from Dr Seuss’s best-known children’s books, as well as The Secret Art of Dr Seuss, a collection based on decades of artwork, which Seuss created at night for his own personal pleasure.

Perhaps the wackiest elements of the collection are Dr Seuss’s three-dimensional Unorthodox Taxidermy sculptures with names such as Carbonic Walrus, Powerless Pufferfish, and Flaming Herring or Seasick Walrus.



Theodor Seuss Geisel was an American children's author, illustrator, animator, and cartoonist. He is known for his work writing and illustrating over 60 books under the pen name Dr Seuss

For more info see https://www.darenberg.com.au/dr-seuss/

Kirkton Park aims to bring some romance to the Hunter

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its fine food and wine but voco by IHG Kirkton Park wants to add some romance to the mix. 

Set on a 70-acre estate with rolling lawns and mountain views, the hotel has unveiled Beneath the Roses, a collection of romantic experiences created for couples who want to "reconnect in nature, surrounded by beauty and calm".

The hero experience is a private floral dining dome in the rose garden. 

Guests can start with a slow wander through the gardens, then settle in for high tea or a three-course dinner created by the Locavore Restaurant team, where estate-to-plate flavours take the lead.

They can make a night of it with the Dine Amongst the Roses package which sees couples enjoy country accommodation and breakfast for two, along with a rose-inspired treat set that includes a locally made Hunter Valley soap, a bottle of First Creek Cuvée and a macaron and strawberry tasting plate scattered with rose petals. 

Summer is peak time in the garden with the estate promoted as being ideal for "slow walks and long conversations". Presumably not about rugby league. 

Just a short drive away, Hunter Valley Gardens offers another floral experience, with its Rose Garden and seasonal displays. 

Overnight packages start from $495 per night and including accommodation for two, and breakfast for two at Locavore Restaurant, along with a choice of high tea or romantic three-course dinner in the floral dome, and treat sets. 

  

See https://huntervalley.vocohotels.com/

Kinder's sweet pre-Christmas treat

 

Want to share a sweet Christmas experience with your kids, or grandchildren?

Kinder Bueno has launched its first-ever Advent Calendar, which is billed as "the sweetest way to countdown to Christmas".

The sweet treat is available exclusively at Big W stores in Australia for $16 -or online  at https://www.bigw.com.au/product/kinder-bueno-advent-calendar-181g/p/6036226  

For those not familiar, Kinder Bueono is a mix of hazelnut, chocolate and wafer that can be just a little bit addictive. In a good way.

The Kinder Bueno Advent Calendar is described as "elevating the holiday countdown with a touch of light, irresistible indulgence".

I am clearly not the target market, but several friends thought it a great idea.

Behind every door of the calendar is one of a selection of Bueno favourites – including Classic Minis, White Minis, Bueno Eggs and even a full-size Bueno bar.  

Global recognition for Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills

Luxury property Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills is the latest Australian property to be accepted into the exclusive Relais & Chateaux group, which represents 580 independently operated hotels and restaurants around the globe.

Relais & Chateaux recognises privately owned  top-notch hotels and restaurants.

Sequoia Lodge's custodians, South Australian hotelier David Horbelt and his family, together with business partner Malcolm Bean, developed the bijou lodge on the grounds of the historic Mount Lofty Estate, opening in August 2021.

Horbelt said Sequoia Lodge expanded on the story of the 175-year-old Mount Lofty Estate with 14 luxury suites offering 180-degree views of the vineyard of the Piccadilly Valley and "a level of opulence enhanced by exemplary personalised service and fine dining".

“The Lodge and its offering were born from our passion and deep connection with the beauty and history of the Adelaide Hills and the enduring hospitality story of Mount Lofty Estate, building on the much-awarded offering that Malcolm and I developed at Mount Lofty House,” he said.

“Surrounded by thousands of hectares of national parks and botanical gardens, Sequoia's guests connect not only with the land, but with its people through luxury bespoke experiences that celebrate our local artisans and produce.

“The Sequoia team's mission is to give guests an unparalleled journey of discovery of the Adelaide Hills' iconic food, wine, wellness, history and nature experiences through in-house dining and while exploring the region."

Each suite has a sunken lounge room featuring a stone-clad fireplace, a spa-retreat bathroom, and moon window allowing guests to sleep under the sky on a custom-made bed.

Artesian spring-fed pools, an infinity pool and a wildlife enclosure are within the lodge grounds. 

More information see sequoialodge.com.au.

# Established in 1954, Relais & Chateaux comprises a collection of 580 hotels and restaurants throughout the world, operated by independent owners.

See www.relaischateaux.com

Switch that power bank off now!

Wanting to use a power bank during your flight on Qantas or Virgin Australia?

No go from next month after a series of incidents - including fires - on several carriers.

Australia’s big two airline groups are to ban the inflight use of all power banks, news hub Travel Mole reports. 

Virgin will start imposing restrictions from December 1 with Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar imposing similar restrictions effective from December 15.

Virgin says it will allow Ino more than two power banks to be carried - and they must be accessible and within sight during the flight.

They cannot be used or charged, and high-power devices (above) must get advance airline approval.

“Globally, more lithium battery-powered devices are now being carried by travellers, and while these items are generally safe, this move will minimise any potential risks,” Virgin COO Chris Snook said.

While power bank use is banned, the airlines said charging devices will still be permitted using in-seat charging ports where available.

Where available being the key.

Several international carriers including Emirates, Singapore Airlines and Vietnam Airlines have banned the use of power banks on board.

Image: Maksim Chernyshev, Scop.io 

You can now book for Australia's "next great walk"

 

Bookings are now open for the much-anticipated Ngaro Track, Queensland’s newest multi-day hiking experience on Whitsunday Island. 

World Expeditions is to deliver guided walks along the landmark 32-kilometre trail – the first of its kind in the region.

With first departures starting from May 2026, the World Expeditions Australian Walking Holidays division will provide a fully supported three-day/two-night walk complete with expert guides, all meals and purpose-built infrastructure including two campsites that showcase the natural beauty and cultural significance of the island. 

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Accessed by boat from Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour, the 32-kilometre Ngaro Track, which has been created by the Queensland Government, offers an opportunity to explore the biodiversity and Indigenous heritage of Whitsunday Island, the largest island in the Whitsunday Islands National Park and a key site within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

Walkers will traverse rainforest, vine thickets, rocky headlands, and high lookouts like Whitsunday Craig. The Ngaro Track links iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Walkers will enjoy multiple opportunities to take a dip in the ocean along the trail.

The project was developed in close partnership with the Ngaro People, traditional owners of Whitsunday Island. 

Interpretive totem posts carved from local hardwood feature art and stories contributed by Ngaro families, will offer walkers a chance to learn thee knowledge, values and ancestral ties that have been passed down through generations.

“At the heart of what we do is creating journeys that honour and protect the landscapes we explore,” said Michael Buggy, director of World Expeditions Travel Group (WETG) Australasian Operating Companies. 

“The Ngaro Track represents that mission. We’re privileged to work with the traditional owners of Whitsunday Island, the Ngaro People, to help shape this spectacular walk.”

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the multi-day Ngaro Track will open up one of Queensland’s outstanding destinations in a way that respects and protects Country.

“The Ngaro Track will soon become a must-do walking experience for the Whitsunday region, for people to embrace the stunning scenery, learn about cultural connections to the landscape, and leave only footprints behind,” Powell said.

“Showcasing the Whitsundays’ breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it’s truly a perfect example of Queensland’s ecotourism potential - and it’s the tip of the iceberg for what’s to come."

The Ngaro Track has been enhanced with two purpose-built, elevated campsites - Bowarri yamba (Moon Camp) and Dhula yamba (Tree Camp) - developed to offer a low-impact, immersive walking experience. 

These facilities feature communal cooking areas and gathering spaces with sweeping views over secluded bays and beaches, marking a significant investment in sustainable visitor infrastructure.

Travellers joining the World Expeditions' guided Ngaro Track walk benefit from a fully supported experience: they walk with just a small pack and arrive to camps already set up with raised camp beds, comfortable tents, pillows and freshly cooked meals (dinner and breakfast), with a picnic lunch served whilst on the track. 

It is priced from A$2195 per person for three days/two nights including boat transfers. Bookings via worldexpeditions.com/ngw.

Independent walkers are also catered for on the newly constructed trail where they carry their own equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, food and cooking supplies. 

To preserve the remote and natural experience of the Ngaro Track, independent walker permits are limited to 15 walkers per section per day. Independent walker bookings for the 2026 season are available now from www.ngarotrack.com.au.

Emirates upgrades its fleet; codeshares with South African Airways

It has been a big week for Emirates Airlines, which has entered a new phase of refitting its aircraft and entered into a new deal with South African Airways.

Emirates' retrofit program sees 60 A380s and 51 Boeing 777s set to receive cabin innovations including next-generation, fully immersive in-flight entertainment systems and upgraded wifi connectivity.

Emirates will introduce the latest seating designs and a new onboard lounge on 60 A380s, paired with Panasonic's advanced Astrova inflight entertainment system.

“Emirates’ retrofit programme is about continuously elevating standards across our entire fleet," says Sir Tim Clark, the airline's president.

"Working with our long-standing partners, we're taking this commitment a step further with the aim of delivering product consistency at scale, in tandem with next-generation innovations in seating, entertainment, and connectivity being brought into service with our newly delivered fleet.

"Our customers expect an excellent experience every time they fly Emirates, and this investment ensures we deliver on that promise in the years to come, wherever they travel with us.”

Business class on both the A380 and Boeing 777s will receive a major upgrade while Emirates is installing fleet-wide Starlink connectivity.

Meanwhile, Emirates and South African Airways are working towards a reciprocal codeshare agreement, ahead of the busy peak travel season.

With single ticket fares and unified baggage handling, Emirates customers will be able to enjoy seamless access from Johannesburg to three domestic points in South Africa - Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), as well as a further thirteen regional points in Africa including Abidjan, Accra, Gaborone, Dar es Salaam, Kinshasa, Windhoek, Lagos, Lusaka, Lubumbashi, Harare, Victoria Falls, Windhoek, and Mauritius.

The codeshare will enable Emirates to tap into feeder traffic from South Africa, and regionally alongside long-haul connecting passengers from the UK and US.

This builds on the existing codeshare partnership that provides South African Airways customers with access to Dubai on Emirates’ soon-to-be 56 weekly flights from three gateways.

Based in Dubai, Emirates is one of the two flag carriers of the United Arab Emirates.

 

See emirates.com, flysaa.com or travel agents.

Visions of generations past exhibited in Melbourne

The European Union’s flagship cultural diplomacy exhibition Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life featuring photographs by Luigi Spina has opened to the public at CO.AS.IT in Melbourne.

The Museo Italiano will be showing the images until December 23, offering a glimpse into one of Europe’s most iconic archaeological sites in the city considered the most European in Australia.

This free exhibition by the European Union Delegation to Australia is part of the EU’s foreign policy initiatives and aims to highlight the importance of cultural diplomacy between the EU with its like-minded partners.

The exhibition explores how history has shaped European identity and culture, and shows the everyday lives of Pompeii’s people, from intricate mosaics and personal graffiti to household objects and grand public spaces.

The commonalities with a modern way of life are striking and Melbourne - with its vibrant multicultural community and deep European heritage - provides the perfect setting for this dialogue between Europe’s past and a shared future, says the EU.

Renowned Italian photographer Spina captured the images during the Covid-19 lockdown, when Pompeii was closed to visitors.

His 38 large-format images take audiences inside the homes, streets, and everyday spaces of the ancient city, capturing a moment of stillness that connects today’s audiences with lives lived two millennia ago.

“As the EU-Australia partnership goes from strength to strength, we take time to celebrate culture, history, heritage and our shared humanity," said EU Ambassador to Australia, Gabriele Visentin.

"Melbourne is so often considered the most European city in Australia, and its vibrancy reflects these same values - freedoms that should be celebrated and preserved through greater dialogue and cooperation.”

Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life - Photographs by Luigi Spina will be held at CO.AS.IT. Museo Italiano, 199 Faraday St, Carlton, until December 23. Admission is free. 

Shining a light on stellar chardonnay in the Hunter

There are literally dozens of grape varieties grown in the Hunter Valley, but virtually all the region's flagship wines are made from shiraz, or semillon. 

Chardonnay is pretty much an afterthought for many producers, so Meerea Park sprung a surprise when it released a 2024 Stratos Chardonnay with a $120 price tag. 

It is a superbly poised and precise wine made in tiny quantities; from just two barrels, in fact. 

Our Hunter Valley correspondent Rick Allen wrote about the wine for the Newcastle Herald. 

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When you bring out a new flagship wine and immediately make it the most expensive of its variety in the region, you leave yourself nowhere to hide.

And for brothers Garth and Rhys Eather of Meerea Park Wines in the Hunter, so be it.

Their Meerea Park Stratos 2024 Chardonnay has just been released at a hefty $120 a bottle, and they’re more than happy to let the wine do the talking.

Still, there’s no doubt the price point is bold considering there’s a lot of exceptionally good chardonnay made in the Hunter, some with great history and pedigree.

“I don’t look at it on a local level, but national - and in that regard I believe the price is very reasonable for the quality of wine you’re getting,” managing director Garth Eather said.

“I love the Hunter Valley and I’m sick of people getting the perception that our chardonnays aren’t as good as those from other regions like Margaret River or the Yarra because we don’t charge as much.

‘Also, we’re a small producer, don’t have our own vineyard, nor the same economy of scale as larger operations.

“So buying in the best fruit and using the very finest Sirugue oak barrels is expensive.”

The Stratos production equates to about 50 dozen bottles, and the wine will only be produced when vintage quality warrants it.

The idea of a flagship white to sit alongside their flagship BLACK shiraz had been on the agenda for a while.

“I didn’t want to do it with semillon because there’s not much you can do with semillon," Eather said. “But chardonnay is different. There’s a lot of choices you can make and I think it’s a product of how good the winemaker is going. And when they get it right, it’s beautiful. 

“I had the Stratos named trademarked and had been waiting for the right time and right wine to use it.”

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The fruit comes from the top-notch Casuarina vineyard. 

Eather's verdict: “Terrific balance, no arms and legs sticking out, lovely richness of fruit, round and creamy. It has varietal character, length and depth. That’s what great wine is all about.”

See https://www.meereapark.com.au/

Niche spirits producer goes small as it aims to grow

Innovation is one of the keys to success in the rapidly changing drinks space.

A new 200ml  hip flask bottle adopted by peanut butter-flavoured whiskey liqueur Skrewball offers a portable, shareable and potentially recyclable format that is being trialled in Australia and New Zealand.

Skrewball Whiskey says its PET hip flask offers identical flavours to those in a full-sized bottle in packaging suitable for a party, or picnic (or for sneaking into a concert). That's my idea, not theirs.

The launch comes as smaller, portable spirit formats gain momentum with 200ml hip flasks experiencing high growth in the US.

“We’re thrilled to bring this new size and shape to Australia and New Zealand, offering our consumers more flexibility while maintaining the premium quality they expect from Skrewball,” said Steven Yeng, the company co-founder.

“With its deliciously sweet, nutty spirit, now in a compact 200ml hip flask, consumers can enjoy  Skrewball wherever the celebration takes them - from backyard barbecues to picnics and beyond.” 

For retailers, the 200ml  hip flask represents a versatile new option: it encourages trial among new consumers, complements larger bottle offerings and is well-suited for impulse purchases or gifting occasions.  

In Australia:  Skrewball’s 200ml bottle is available at independent retailers and online across Australia at an RRP of $24.99.  In New Zealand it is available at Liquorland and Thirsty Liquor with an RRP of $21.99. 

Capital idea: in high spirits in Canberra

Gin and whisky lovers can head to the national capital for a spirited weekend.

The new Spirits at the Foreshore tasting event will be held at the Old Transport Depot in Canberra on November 28-29..

The will be pourings of more than 200 spirits from 40 Australian and international distillers in a lakeside setting.

Over three tasting sessions across two days, festivalgoers can discover bold Tasmanian whiskies, new styles of gin, authentic Mexican tequila, limoncello, rum, vodka paired with a caviar bump, and more, the organisers promise.

Tickets include unlimited tasting samples (to be sipped sensibly, of course), a branded tasting cup, Long Rays tonic and soda water, and a tote bag to stash your purchases.

Food trucks will be on site to keep guests fuelled between sips, and every bottle on taste will be available for take-home purchase direct.

Tickets are $70 for a three-hour session, with “Any Session” tickets available for $110.

A limited number of masterclass tickets are available for $90, including entry to the festival.

Friday features the Hugo Vodka Masterclass, while on the Saturday, White Light Beverages will host a cocktail session with tips and tricks for tequila, vodka, gin and whisky, an insider’s guide to shaking the perfect margarita, elevating your martini, and making the most of their expanded award-winning range.

Distillers confirmed include Hugo Vodka, Prohibition Liquor Co, Ester Spirits, Volume Australia, White Light Beverages, North of Eden, Renegade Spirits, Gindu Distillery, Brix Distillers, Beachtree Distilling Co, Camden Valley Spirits, Noble Bootleggers, Turner Stillhouse’s Three Cuts Gin and more. 

Renegade Spirits and Gindu Distillery are among those making their Canberra debut.

Tickets are on sale at ginevents.com.au.

I wish I had not opened this bottle of wine

Ever opened a bottle of wine and immediately regretted it? 

That was the case at the weekend when I tasted the 2022 vintage release of Vasse Felix's benchmark Tom Cullity cabernet blend. 

It was dark and inky, complex and full, a quality statement; but also taut and very young. 

The 2022 Tom Cullity will, in my opinion, be a much better drink in five years or more. 

Unfortunately when you write about wine and are sent a sample the expectation is that you will taste and review right away - not five years down the track. 

"We recently tasted through 10 years of this wine and the Tom Cullitty remains the same in its stature, meaning and beauty from the old vines, and tells the story of only the minor nuances of 10 beautiful seasons," says winemaker Virginia Willcock. 

"The 2022 simply looks vibrant, energetic, powerful and delicious. It is our timeless tribute from the original vines that shaped Margaret River cabernet."

Made from cabernet sauvignon (87%) with a small amount of malbec (14%) this vintage, Tom Cullitty has become an icon over the past decade. 

Willcock says the Vasse Felix team has "consistently found the wine is ready to drink after two years in the bottle, or three-and-a-half years of age". 

It is a good wine now, but I suspect it will be great, so I'm taking a chance on disagreeing with a leading winemaker and show judge. 

The 2022 Vasse Felix Tom Cullitty is made from fruit grown on 55-year-old vines, honours a regional pioneer who planted the Vasse Felix vineyards and will set you back $200 a bottle. It would make a terrific Christmas present. 

See https://www.vassefelix.com.au/

New adventures way out west

Looking for a new travel experience? Western Australia has plenty to share, both in Perth and the regions, Tourism Western Australia reports.

Helispirit and Box Hill Esperance partner on scenic experience

New premium accommodation offering Box Hill Esperance​​​​​​​ has partnered with award-winning aviation operator Helispirit to offer luxury experiences in the Esperance/Kepa Kurl region. Guests can now join a Helispirit tour direct from their doorstep at Box Hill and be whisked away on scenic flight before landing for a secluded beach swim or private picnic.

Lighting the Sound tour to pop up in Albany

Albany Tours has launched a twilight hike experience to coincide with the 'Lighting the Sound' event by Kari Kola, occurring over three weekends in Albany in March 2026. Beginning in the late afternoon, the hike will depart from Whalers Cove and conclude at Uredale Point (above) for a spectacular vantage point view of the installation.

Pemberton Discovery Tour launches new agritourism experience

Visitors to the Southern Forests region can discover more about the region's local incredible produce on a new tour by Pemberton Discovery Tours. 'Beyond the Farm Gate' takes food-loving visitors behind the scenes, with three exclusive stops to showcase the best produce of the season. Growers may include avocado orchards, apple or potato farms, strawberry fields or beef of poultry farms depending on the season.

Sunsets, sips and dips: new experience by Quokka

Quokka Adventure Tours has launched its 'Beaches of Perth Sunset Picnic and City Lights Tour' just in time for summer. Starting in the Perth CBD, the tour takes a scenic drive through several riverside suburbs, stopping briefly for a riverside stroll, before arriving at the iconic Cottesloe Beach. Here guests can opt for an afternoon dip, before heading north along the coastline to City Beach and Scarborough. Guest will enjoy a light supper accompanied by a glass of Margaret River wine (surely the local Swan Valley would be more appropriate). The return journey to Perth includes a dessert stop at Kings Park and Botanic Garden.

Wildlife tour experience launches in Perth

Off the Beaten Track's new Kaarakin Wildlife Experience invites visitors to experience the beauty of Banyowla Regional Park, located on the outskirts of Perth, while learning about the state's red-tailed and white-tailed black cockatoos. The full-day tour starts with a guided behind-the-scenes experience at the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre, where guests meet cockatoos, kangaroos, emus and dingoes.

Dwellingup Mountain Bike Trail network complete

Dwellingup's growing reputation as a Trail Town has received a boost with the opening of Stage 2 of the Dwellingup Mountain Bike Trail network. Visitors to the region can now explore a 68km trail. Just over an hour from Perth, Dwellingup is known for its forests, rivers and array of wildlife.

Meet a sparkling new venue in Champagne

Anyone planning a trip to Champagne might want to make note of a recently opened wine destination.

Champagne Thiénot has marked marked its 40th anniversary this year with a move into wine tourism as it opens a boutique hotel, bar and spa, and tasting experience in the heart of Reims.

Called Le 3, after its address in pedestrian alley 3 Rue du Marc in the city, the new offering occupies a historic building not far Veuve Clicquot’s Hôtel du Marc.

Maison Thiénot - well known to Australians for its collaborations with Penfolds - was founded by Alain Thiénot in 1985, and is now run by by his children, Garance and Stanislas.

Thiénot describes Le 3 as “an immersive journey through Champagne tradition and innovation, with restored cellars, interactive exhibits, and an open-air garden”.

The venue also includes a vinothèque with Champagnes going back to the first vintage expression made by the house from the 1985 harvest.

Le 3 - a 10m-minute walk from Reims Station - also has a Champagne rooftop bar and spa, and an upcoming  boutique hotel with 12 rooms, news hub drinks business reports.

Maison Thienot says its purpose is to "provide an immersive and educational wine tourism experience centred on Champagne Thiénot".

The target audience is anyone interested in Champagne, from novices to aficionados, with options for both guided and self-guided exploration.

Check out this link: https://www.champagne-thienot.com/en/wine-tourism-experience/cellar-tours-at-champagne-thienot/