eat! Berlin aiming to sparkle in spring

Berlin is one of the world's most vibrant cities - and a potential magnet for food and wine lovers early in the new year. 

The eat! berlin 2026 gourmet festival runs from February 19 to March 2, 2026 showcasing German and international cuisine.

The festival boasts a prominent international line-up including star Austrian chef Lukas Nagl, who will will be a guest at the "From the Other Shore" event at the Rutz Zollhaus, while leading Alsatian chef Lucas Ramstein will bring a culinary journey through France with "Le Tour de France" to the Brasserie Quarré at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski.

Among the two-Michelin-starred chefs are Tony Hohlfeld, who will create a special evening at Restaurant Horváth, and Daniel Schimkovitsch, a guest chef at POTS. 

The national line-up covers a broad stylistic spectrum - from classic produce-based cuisine to modern regionality and internationally inspired concepts.

Among the program highlights of 2026 is the premiere of "SpizzaPizza", which makes a promise of "from oven to hand in two minutes". 

Local star chef Tim Raue (top) will present his new gastronomic concept for the first time at eat! berlin and will showcase it on February 24 at his eponymous restaurant. 

There will be a completely Vegan cinema evening at the Astor Film Lounge, while a perennial audience favourite the Tagesspiegel Blind Date; where neither the chef nor the wine supplier is known.

With "SparklingB!", eat! berlin 2026 is expanding its portfolio for the first time to include a major, independent sparkling wine trade fair. 

See www.eat-berlin.de 

Melbourne to celebrate food and wine in style

Putting together your 2026 food calendar?

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival returns next year with a Greek-themed "World’s Longest Lunch", a Cake Picnic and some top culinary talent heading to Victoria. 

The festival will run from March 20-29 with events being held across the state. 

"There is so much to be excited by in the 2026 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, presented La Trobe Financial,” said Anthea Loucas Bosha, CEO of Food + Drink Victoria, the not-for-profit parent company behind MFWF and a very keen promoter of the event's sponsor. 

“I’m thrilled that the 2026 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival program features an incredible special events program with 170 events across Melbourne, alongside our regional special events program, bringing 26 events to towns and regions across Victoria.

"Our final weekend has us back at Fed Square, where Melbourne’s best bakers and patissiers will be on show at our fourth and supersized Baker’s Dozen. 

"For 10 days in March there will be nowhere better to eat and drink in the world."

The party kicks off with the return of "World’s Longest Lunch" (above), celebrating Melbourne's Greek community. 

This sees 1,600 guests sitting down to a three-course meal, across more than 600 metres of table.

"The 2026 program includes guests making their way to Melbourne from Mexico City, Manila, Chiang Rai, Valetta, London, New York City, Singapore, Paris and beyond," says MFWF creative director Pat Nourse. 

“They’re cooking in fine-dining restaurants and in pubs, serving food on china plates on damask cloths, and straight out of restaurant windows, doing it savoury, sweet, spicy and everywhere in between." 

For details and ticket sales visit mfwf.com.au. 

Its OK to go NoLo: No one feels guilty any more

It is OK to go alcohol free.

No guilt.

The team at Heineken 0.0, which is the best-selling non-alcoholic beer, has revealed that almost three-quarters (72%) of people are confident enough to skip alcohol over the holidays without fear of being judged or excluded. 

A recent study, carried out in five countries in partnership with the author of Sober Curious, Ruby Warrington, shows attitudes are changing fast.

It revealed over two-thirds (67%) of people surveyed now say it's outdated and inappropriate to ask why someone isn't drinking alcohol in 2025.

Also, 81% agree it's acceptable to say "no" to alcohol at festive events - with no explanation required.

"The question 'why aren't you drinking?' belongs firmly in the past," Warrington says.

"People everywhere now feel free to choose if and when they drink alcohol without fearing social pressure or awkwardness. When I coined the term 'sober curious' nearly 10 years ago, the goal was to normalise the choice not to drink – and we're finally here."

It was the second survey in 12 months recording positive attitudes.

Heineken’s partner in its original January study, Charles Spence, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, said: "These two studies show how quickly attitudes shift. Alcohol has been central to social life for generations, but the data now proves moderation is for everyone."

How people plan to celebrate this season also tells a story. 

At least 37% will moderate their intake, 27% plan to abstain altogether, and 1 in 5 will raise a 0.0 beer instead. Gen Z are leading the charge for balance with 30% planning to 'zebra stripe' their drinks, alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic all night.

Fear of missing out has finally gone out of fashion with 86% saying they are comfortable drinking low or no-alcohol options at festive events, and 76% say they don't need alcohol to feel included.

In fact, 90% say they'd support a friend choosing to drink low or no-alcohol versions this festive season - showing social pressure has given way to social acceptance.

# The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 10,001 adults aged 18+ in the UK, US, Spain, Japan and Brazil.

Vancouver puts on the culinary glitz

Vancouver is one of the most spectacular cities in North America. It has a great food and drink culture and has the advantage of being in Canada, rather than its belligerent neighbour. 

If you are heading to British Columbia early in the new year be sure to check out Dine Out Vancouver, Canada’s largest food and drink celebration, which will return for its 24th year. 

Destination Vancouver has announced that foodies can enjoy 19 days of feasting fun from January 21 to February 8, 2026. 

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival (DOVF) is an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to celebrate the city's culinary scene. 

Diners can look forward to a line-up of special menus from local chefs, unique culinary experiences, and a schedule of tasty events. 

The 2026 DOVF will showcase more than 400 restaurants from the North Shore to downtown, through Richmond and beyond, dishing up menus in fixed price points ranging from $25 to $70 per person.

Guests can also enjoy exclusive menus from Michelin-starred restaurants Burdock & Co. and Published on Main for $110.

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival will feature more than 30 ticketed dining events, including a three-course dinner in one of Rocky Mountaineer’s luxury rail cars at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. 

There will also be the “Chowder Cup”- a competition where chefs can showcase their creativity by featuring a sustainable seafood ingredient to win over a panel of judges. 

Also think events like a Sea Foraging Adventure. a Chinatown Walk, Talk and Dim Sum and a Grand Mezcal Tasting Event. 

Participating downtown Vancouver hotels will be offering up to a $250 Prepaid Mastercard with a two-night hotel stay, or a $75 Prepaid Mastercard with a one-night hotel stay (terms and conditions apply).

As the official airline of Dine Out Vancouver Festival, Air Canada will be offering discounted fares. 

For more info see https://www.dineoutvancouver.com/attractions/.

Many different facets of the Barossa

From new experiences, new tastes and new places to stay, the Barossa is one of the liveliest wine regions to visit in Australia.

New at Jacob's Creek, as part of its membership with Ultimate Winery Experiences, is a suite of horse riding experiences from their Barossa cellar door, created in collaboration with Olympic medallist and eventer Megan Jones and her team at Hallmark Farm.

The partnership aims to blend the best of wine tourism and agritourism, offering guests the chance to explore the beautiful vineyards and surrounding landscapes on horseback before returning to enjoy a taste of the local product.

The experiences range from a horse ride and picnic, to a scenic trail ride and private curated tasting.

Meanwhile, Barossa Grand Retreats’ Benbullen Pavilions (above), set within 10 acres of peaceful countryside in the Barossa, are aimed at couples or groups seeking privacy and comfort.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and native landscapes, each pavilion features three suites, each with its own en-suite bathroom and private deck.

Open-plan living areas include gourmet kitchens with premium European appliances and a spacious butler’s pantry.

Located just outside Angaston, Benbullen Pavilions offers high-speed wifi and sustainable design principles.



When you've had enough wine but still want a drink, The Distillery Door at the Barossa Valley Distillery (above) might fit the bill.

The Distillery Door Tasting Room & Cocktail Bar is housed in the Old Penfolds Distillery in Nuriootpa.

It is home to some of the oldest commercial stills in Australia, including a Coffey Still of which there are only three in the world.

The Distillery is a celebration of all things spirits, offering tasting paddles of gins and cocktails, alongside local Barossa wines and beers from smaller producers. 

imbibe in the historic bar or in the botanical garden seating area outside. There are pizzas from Friday-Sunday.

See https://www.barossa.com/

easyJet unveils new cheap flight options from the UK to Europe

One of the thrilling surprises for Australians visiting the UK is the ready availability of flights to exotic destinations for the cost a rail trip back home. 

There may be all sorts of restrictions; the extras can pile up and some of the flights leave from secondary airports. But there are some real bargains to be had if you have a sense of adventure. 

EasyJet - one of the leading budget airlines - has just unveiled two new routes for summer 2026 from the UK to Germany and Italy. 

Seats now on sale to Naples from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and to Munich from London Southend. 

The Naples flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays from August 3, while easyJet’s new flight to Munich will start on September 17, operating twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays and starting ahead of Oktoberfest. 

EasyJet holidays has also launched packages to both cities with flights and accommodation included. 

“We are really pleased to be launching even more new routes and package holidays," said  Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK country manager. 

"By continuing to grow our network, we are providing even greater choice and connectivity from across the UK.” 

As of today, easyJet serves 22 UK airports, offering more than 640 routes to 140 destinations from the UK to Europe and beyond. 

The airline also recently announced new routes from across eight UK airports including new connections to Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, the Canary Islands, Egypt and Malta. 

Worth checking out. Just don't expect any frills. 

Michelin turns its beady eyes to wine

First it was restaurants. Then hotels. Now Michelin is turning its hand to rating wines. 

The Michelin Guide this week announced plans to introduce a three-tier ‘Grapes’ system to rate wine producers. 

Burgundy and Bordeaux (how very predictable) will be the first regions to be assessed in 2026. 

Michelin has unveiled a new global distinction for wine, expanding the Guide’s long-established expertise in gastronomy into vineyard assessments for the first time. 

The new system, called the Michelin Grapes, will award one, two or three Grapes to wine estates, alongside a “Selected” category for producers chosen for regular review. 

Described as "a new benchmark for wine lovers", Michelin says the move offers wine enthusiasts a trusted reference point for discovering producers worldwide. 

The Grapes will evaluate estates using five criteria: agronomy, technical mastery, identity, balance and consistency across vintages. All assessments will be carried out by a team of professional wine inspectors employed by the Michelin Group. 

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director for the Michelin Guide, told reporters: “After having oriented wine-lovers towards the finest tables in more than 70 destinations and to the world’s most elegant hotels, the Michelin Guide is delighted to open a new chapter with the world of wine. 

"This new reference is designed for both the curious amateur and the most ardent expert.” 

He added that the distinction rewards “the people who are building the most demanding vineyards around the world.” 

Three Grapes will recognise “exceptional producers” whose wines can be relied upon “whatever the vintage”. Two Grapes will go to “excellent producers” that stand out within their peer group and region, while one Grape highlights “very good producers” crafting wines of character, particularly in strong vintages. 

The “Selected” category identifies dependable producers chosen for continued review. 

The inspectors are described as "seasoned professionals", including former sommeliers, specialised critics and production experts, selected for their ability to apply the methodology “with rigour and integrity”. 

To be honest I couldn't give a damn what these instant experts say. They will need to earn respect over the several years.   

Image: Ben Donath, Scop.io

Asia leading the way in the changing tourism space

Asia is at the forefront of emerging travel trends for 2026 and beyond, leading travel platform Agoda reports. 

“The travel landscape is transforming at an unprecedented pace – and Asia is at the forefront of emerging trends," says the Agoda 2026 Travel Outlook report.

"Our research finds that change is fuelled by emerging markets, new destinations, tech innovations, streamlined visa processes, expanded flight routes, improved tourism infrastructure, and more," says Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern. 

"With so many moving parts, 2026 feels like the beginning of  a new era in travel."

Based on survey and industry insights, the report identifies key insights poised to shape the travel industry in 2026. 

Efforts to reduce friction in travel are evident across Asia, in air travel infrastructure, visa policies, and digital finance, paving the way for increased intra-regional and international tourism. 

Airlines in the Asia Pacific region are scheduled to take delivery of an estimated 615 new aircraft in 2026. Additionally, AI innovation is driving the convergence of travel services, with travellers increasingly expecting the technology to provide travel inspiration and enhance the booking process.

Respondents in Agoda's survey stated that price remains a crucial factor for travelers when selecting accommodation, with savvy consumers seeking great deals that enable them to enjoy more experiences and visit more destinations. 

Secondary destinations continue to gain popularity as travellers look for authentic and immersive cultural experiences. 

Experiential travel, including concerts and food trips, is becoming mainstream, with travellers prioritising memorable experiences over simply visiting destinations.

The 2026 Travel Outlook Report by Agoda can be downloaded via https://ago-da.co/2026-report.

Image: Priyanka Juneja, Scop.io 

One of the world's most famous pizzerias opens in Sydney

One of the most famous pizzerias is opening its first outlet in Sydney. 

L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, the 155-year-old Naples institution featured in the Julia Roberts film Eat Pray Love, opening its first Australian doors this week. 

Da Michele now has more than 80 locations worldwide and aims to bring "an authentic piece of Naples to Sydney’s dining scene", its media release proclaims. 

“Sydney, the wait for true pizza is finally over,” says Da Michele representative Giuseppe Costagliola, who has a bit of confidence about him. 

“For years, Australians have travelled to Naples for the real deal, or have been eating overpriced fakes. Now, we’ve brought the same ingredients and craftsmanship to Australia, so locals can experience the real pizza that started it all.”

Since 1870, the Naples Da Michele has been "widely regarded as the global benchmark for true pizza, and still family-owned by the founder’s descendants".

Every element, from imported Italian tomatoes and Agerola Fiordilatte cheese, to specialist equipment and tools, has been sourced from Naples. 

“Many pizzerias claim to serve ‘Neapolitan style,’ but no others can live up to the original,” says cocky Costagliola.

“We’ve brought everything from our hometown: the oven, the artisans, the vitality of Naples, so that every bite can transport you there in an instant.” 

Prices are a surprise. Da Michele has pizzas costing from $18. 

“When it comes to food, luxury is about authenticity, not about money,” says Costagliola. “

The menu will highlight Da Michele’s iconic margherita and marinara pizzas, along with a selection of antipasti, pastas and desserts. 

L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele officially opens at 50 Pitt Street, Sydney CBD on Friday, December 5. 

The venue will be fully licensed and open seven days a week, 11:30am-11:30pm.

New look and menu for a pioneering vineyard restaurant

 

An old favourite will have a brand new look when wine lovers visit Crittenden Estate on the Mornington Peninsula this summer.

The Crittenden family has been a leader in the wine and tourism space for over four decades, with Garry Crittenden a pioneer of planting Italian grapes in Australia. 

Now the Crittendens have transformed one of Victoria's most beautiful vineyard - and waterfront -  restaurants with a new chef in charge. 

Crittenden Restaurant, first opened in 1988, and is now back completely under the control of the founding family. 

Garry and and the late Margaret Crittenden helped create Mornington’s wine scene. When Garry planted his first vines in Dromana, he doubled the Peninsula’s wine plantings overnight, and a decade later, Margaret’s idea to offer food kickstarted one of the region’s very first winery restaurants.

Their children, Zoe and Rollo Crittenden, have grown into the business: Rollo as a very talented winemaker and GM; Zoe as director of marketing. 

When Margaret fell ill 20 years ago, the family leased her restaurant to an outside operator. Last year, Zoe and Rollo brought the business back and embarked on a complete ground-up redevelopment that cost over $1 million. 

In charge is executive Chef Brunno Melo, a Brazilian-born, Le Cordon Bleu–trained culinary leader with over 15 years of experience transforming kitchens and dining destinations, who was previously at Audrey's.

His menus celebrate local, seasonal produce. 

The menu aims to balance bold flavours with accessible dishes, featuring Josper-grilled swordfish with smoked maple chimichurri, and a half roast chicken with harissa and chargrilled corn. Both sound delicious. Or perhaps a Raven’s Creek free-range, dry-aged Tomahawk pork chop. 

Ingredients from neighbours like Torello Farm feature across the menu. 

“It’s a ground-up renovation and a complete remake and rethink on the space… very much in keeping with the style of food and, of course, the wine that we want to present to visitors,” says Rollo Crittenden. 

Guests can enjoy a four-course feast paired with estate wines, graze on small plates of fresh seafood on the deck, or share a charcuterie platter under the umbrellas on the terrace. 

Something for everyone. 

“This new space definitely reflects the way we want people to experience food and wine at Crittenden today,” adds Rollo. 

“We’re honoured to continue Mum’s legacy and her commitment to genuine hospitality,” says Zoe Crittenden. "Our new space is both modern and welcoming - designed to showcase fresh, thoughtful dishes that pair beautifully with our cool-climate wines.”

The Crittenden cellar door next door remains the home of the family’s excellent pinot noir, chardonnay, and savagnin, while the Crittenden Lakeside Villas offer waterside retreats among the vines.

I haven't visited the new eatery yet - but it is certainly on my list over the next few months. I have very fond memories of previous visits. 

Crittenden Restaurant serves lunch seven days and dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings.

See www.crittendenwines.com.au

Qantas ups the ante at the pointy end

Qantas is adding extra oomph at the pointy end of its planes.

Customers travelling in first class on the Australian flag carrier can now expect elevated dining options, exclusive Aesop amenity kits, premium Bollinger champagne and redesigned pyjamas as the airline introduces a range of enhancements to its A380 premium cabin.

Rolling out across the airline's international network from this month, the enhancements are described in a media release as "part of the airline's ongoing investment in customer experience and have been shaped by customer insights and inflight trials".

Food will be a priority with Qantas creative director of food and beverage Neil Perry serving up signature dishes from his star Margaret restaurant in Sydney, alongside a range of new menu items featuring Australian producers from across the country.

Think dishes like tartare of yellowfin tuna with gochujang, toasted sesame and baby cos; roasted Wollemi duck with orange caramel, crisp Chinese greens, golden sesame and jasmine rice, and crumbed Margra lamb cutlets with shaved fennel, pine nuts, rocket, salsa verde and lemon.

The new First dining experience will be paired with award-winning Australian wines, a wider selection of cocktails and a signature pour of Bollinger La Grande Année 2015 alongside Pommery Cuvée Louise 2006.

New Aesop amenity kits in three exclusive collectable designs created for Qantas First will be offered to customers alongside the introduction of new navy Qantas-designed pyjamas and loafer-style slippers for inflight comfort.



Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the updates reflect the airline's ongoing investment in delivering a premium experience across its international network.

“Our customers fly First because they value the quality in every detail," he said. "On longer flights, a fine dining experience, premium amenities and complete comfort really matter, so we've focused on improving each of these areas.

“Our incredible cabin crew have been undergoing inflight trials and an intensive training program. It is great to welcome new premium partners onboard and we look forward to delivering this new experience for our First customers."

First customers will be able to opt to dine on demand throughout the journey to allow for maximum rest.

Qantas First is available on services operated on A380 aircraft to destinations including Singapore, London, Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Dallas. The enhancements are expected to have been rolled out across the network by mid 2026.

New report show travellers are taking new directions

What direction is travel headed in 2026?

Booming hotel group Minor Hotels says travellers are re-thinking how they move through the world, seeking multi-dimensional experiences that resonate emotionally, relationally and spiritually.

The new report released this week, the inaugural Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report, explores various dimensions of connection that illustrate the shift for hotels from simply delivering service to helping guests find meaning through their journeys.

“Today’s travellers want more than destinations, they want stories, connections and meaning," says Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, parent company of Minor Hotels.

"Our trend report reveals a growing appetite for authentic engagement and conscious travel choices.

"For Minor Hotels, this is an invitation to continue shaping experiences that prioritise wellbeing and cultural depth, ensuring every journey offers something truly memorable.

"Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, the report finds that people continue to prioritise travel in the year ahead. The outlook for 2026 is overwhelmingly positive, with 94% of respondents expecting to travel as much or more in the coming year, with one-third planning more trips than in 2025.

"Ninety-four % plan to spend the same or more on travel in 2026, with almost half (47%) intending to increase their travel budgets. Luxury travellers are nearly twice as likely to travel more in 2026 compared to all respondents, with 61% expecting an increase in frequency."

The report says travellers are prioritising quality over quantity, seeking experiences that deliver personal value rather than simply more trips. While travellers remain optimistic for the year ahead, affordability remains a leading factor shaping plans for 53% of respondents, followed by seasonality (42%), ease of travel (40%) and time (40%).

Over half of respondents (53%) book their travel within three months of departure, showing a willingness to clear their schedule at short notice or to wait for greater clarity amidst ongoing uncertainty.

Hotel websites dominate as the most utilised planning tool for 80% of travellers, ahead of personal recommendations (35%) and online travel agents (29%). At the same time, emerging technologies, such as generative AI chatbots, are now used by 12%. Heaven help us all.

Even on group journeys, travellers are carving out space for solitude and nature to recharge with 71% of respondents agree that taking a break from technology, social media or work during their travel is important for their personal wellbeing.

"Forty-four percent plan to integrate more wellness or mindfulness - although I'm betting some of them have no idea what mindfulness is - rising to 73% among those already engaged in wellness practices. Spa treatments lead as the top-choice activity (75%), followed by nature-based experiences (59%) and fitness (49%).

Culture is discovered through flavour, with food the primary gateway for 85% of travellers, followed by historic architecture (71%) and nature (65%). Not so sure about all that love of architecture, either. 

# Read the full report and the trends shaping travel in the year of connection here:
https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/258457-minor-hotels-travel-trends-report-reveals-optimism-and-travellers-search-for-connection-in-20

Mövenpick goes large with new 1,530-room hotel

If you enjoy your hotels small and cosy then you've come to the wrong place. 

 
Global hotel giant Accor has just unveiled the world's largest Mövenpick brand hotel with the signing of Manila Bay Westside in partnership with Megaworld, the Philippines' largest township developer. 

The new Mövenpick hotel will have 1,530 rooms, marking a significant milestone in Accor's growth strategy in Asia. It is a re-branding of the Grand Westside. 

The revamp of the hotel will feature a sky bridge connecting it to the Westside City integrated casino and entertainment complex and the Grand Opera House.

Swiss-born, Mövenpick has evolved into a global brand "meeting the rising demand for high-quality, experience-driven hospitality among discerning travellers".

The hotel will be located within Megaworld's Westside City Township Development in Parañaque, a quarter offering a mix of retail, entertainment, business, and leisure attractions.

To re-open in mid-2026, Mövenpick Manila Bay Westside will offer a range of dining experiences including a specialty Filipino restaurant, an international all-day dining venue, and a signature bar. 

Guests will also be also enjoy Mövenpick's iconic Chocolate Hour, an immersive, complimentary experience offered every afternoon.

The hotel will offer modern, flexible meeting and event spaces. 

“Across Asia, we continue to grow sustainably by collaborating closely with our partners and ensuring we bring the right brand to the right market," says Andrew Langdon, Chief Development Officer, Asia, for Accor. 

"This reflects our owner-centric approach, our adaptability, and the strength of ALL Accor in amplifying the visibility of our premium brands." 

Cleofe Albiso, managing director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said: “The opening of the world's largest Mövenpick is a powerful testament to our group's efforts to scale our world-class offerings and meet the demands of the broader international market. 

"It reflects our commitment to building the right facilities, empowering local talent, and reinforcing our readiness to welcome the rest of the world. 

"This partnership reflects our shared belief that the Philippines is ready to stand as a distinct global destination. As we rebrand Grand Westside Hotel into the world's largest Mövenpick, we continue to generate more jobs, help drive stronger tourism activity, and open doors for communities to grow alongside this development.”

The opening of Mövenpick Manila Bay Westside will see Accor become the largest international hotel operator in the Philippines with 13 hotels and more than 4,700 keys across eight brands. 

A way to reduce Hobart's massive potential stadium debt

 

How can Tasmania help ease its tremendous debt should the controversial new Macquarie Point Stadium get the go head?

User pays would seem to be be a very fair system to all should Hobart's contentious multi-purpose stadium eventually be built. 

The proposed stadium has critics who says who sat it is too expensive, in the wrong location, poorly planned and atrociously ugly. And does not need a roof. 

Others says it is essential for the state. Both for the progress of Tasmania's finances, tourism, and for the AFL dream to become a reality 

Fair enough. 

Let those who are keen on the stadium and want to attend events help pay for it to be build, and kept maintained. And those who do not want it can completely ignore it. 

To help cover costs every person buying a ticket for an event could pay maybe a $50 user premium. Each time they attend an event. Kids maybe $25, or even $10. 

The sports fans and concert goers will be able to pay for the right to attend the shiny new 23,000-seat stadium and enjoy all of its its benefits.

Because surely Tasmanians would not want the hopes and dreams of their children to be carried on someone else's shoulders.

And visitors splashing out on air fares and hotel rooms would be unlikely to be dissuaded by paying an extra $50 for a match, or concert ticket. 

Think what happens now. If you want to catch a bus, you pay for it. Or decide not to travel. . 

If you wat to go into a restaurant and eat, you pay the price. Or decide not to eat.

If you want to visit a national park, you choose to visit it and pay a fee, or have the freedom not to enter.

Similarly if you want to upgrade your airline flight. You pay a premium. 

Those who decide they want to attend one of the seven AFL matches to be held each year in Hobart could easily pay $50 (or even $100) per person extra per event. Or choose to go to a match in Launceston without a roof instead.  

They would get to see to see games they would otherwise have to travel to Melbourne so see. That said, they would be saving a lot of money on flights, hotels etc while also boosting the local economy. 

The same when Bruce Springsteen or Maria Carey, or a Creedence tribute band, play a concert under the expensive roof. 

Those who want to attend and pay a premium payment would be happy about for not having to travel interstate. Those who prefer not to attend do pay anything. 

For seven home AFL fames fans would play $350 each season, or maybe $700. Same with cricket same, and concerts.  

All perfectly equitable. 

In fact, what could be fairer?  All the while helping the state and reining in that potential massive debt.    

  

Young cocktail drinkers are bigger thinkers

Gen Z aren't drinking less, they're drinking differently, a new survey has revealed.

Bacardi VP Sean Kerry says Gen Z are drinking "earlier, lighter, and with more intention."

They are prioritising meaningful connections, micro-indulgence, and storytelling experiences over traditional consumption.

The seventh annual Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report, released by Bacardi Limited, in partnership with The Future Laboratory (TFL), draws on data from Bacardi-led and third-party research, consumer surveys, bartender interviews and TFL’s trend forecasting.

The report also reveals the cocktails which are set to be the most popular in 2026 and trends for younger consumers.

“Gen Z isn’t drinking less, they’re simply drinking earlier, lighter, and with more intention,” says Kerry.

“Around the world, we’re seeing a move towards more meaningful drinking moments whether that means in-person get-togethers with friends, discovering flavours rooted in local culture, or embracing new forms of creative expression through cocktails."

Martin Raymond, co-founder of The Future Laboratory, says: "Consumers are moving from curating experiences to cultivating connections. The pendulum has swung from digital convenience to human creativity, and the drinks industry sits at the centre of that shift.

“In 2026, value will be defined not by scarcity or status, but by depth: the provenance of ingredients, the stories behind serves, and the ability to transform a moment into meaning.”

Globally, the survey suggests the top 10 cocktails in 2026 will be:

1. Margarita

2. Mojito

3. Piña Colada

4. Rum and Coke

5. Whisky and Coke

6. Spritz

7. Vodka Lemonade

8. Vodka Soda

9. Gin and Tonic

10. Dry Martini Cocktail

Australia producing too many wine grapes

Bad news today for the Australian wine industry as national stock levels rise.

Wine production exceeded sales in 2024–25, leading to a rise of 5% in national stock levels, The Australian Wine Production, Sales and Inventory Report 2025, released by Wine Australia.

The worsening imbalance between supply and demand comes as global conditions for wine remain tough. 

Analysis of global market conditions suggests that the outlook for wine has deteriorated in the past 12 months. 

Global consumption has continued to decline and remains lower than global production. Consumption is forecast to decrease further in the next five years.

These unfavourable market conditions are compounded for Australia by the high stock levels carried forward from 2024–25. 

The increase in Australian wine stocks without an increase in sales is likely to reduce future demand for wine and wine grapes. As a result, grape prices are unlikely to improve in the next few years.

Results large winemakers in Australia indicated that total Australian wine production from the 2025 vintage was 1.13 billion litres, or 126 million 9-litre case equivalents. This was 9% higher than in 2024, but 7% below the 10-year average of 1.22 billion litres.

The production of red wine increased by 15%, while the production of white wine increased by 2%. 

Wine Australia manager for market insights Peter Bailey said that the result was expected, after the grape crush in 2025 increased by 11%, with nearly 90% of the additional tonnes being red.

“Production was still below the 10-year average, but it was the second vintage in a row where the crush increased from the 20-year low in 2023, despite the high levels of stock going into the 2025 vintage,” Bailey said.

Export sales increased by 3% to 638 million litres, driven by growth in exports to mainland China, which increased by 53 million litres to 85 million litres in the latest 12-month period.

Image: Andrii Omelnytskii, Scop.io

Mornington Peninsula favourite returns after five years

 

A favourite Mornington Peninsula destination for wine and food lovers is back after a five-year absence.

Ten Minutes by Tractor, one of the leading wine producers in the region and a member of Ultimate Winery Experiences, has announced the return of Petit Tracteur, a familiar name with a refreshed identity. 

Petit Tracteur closed five years ago during a major refurbishment of the venue's main restaurant. 

Earlier this year, a pop-up offered guests a brief return of the bistro - and the enthusiastic response made it clear to owner Martin Spedding that Petit Tracteur held a special place in people's memories.

Reinstated as a permanent offering and serving lunch from Thursday-Sunday, Petit Tracteur now sits within the cellar door, complementing the flagship restaurant. 

The menu aims to blend classic French technique with the produce and personality of the Mornington Peninsula, presenting a contemporary interpretation of bistro dishes: think confit salmon with wasabi and dill, and twice-baked cheese soufflé with roasted hazelnuts.

The dishes are designed to complement the winery's chardonnays and pinot noirs. 

See https://www.tenminutesbytractor.com.au/