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Australia

Australian TV Shows explained

The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk

Understanding Australian culture and lifestyle are difficult for any foreigner, especially upon the first arrival. So it’s always a good idea to immerse yourself in the Australian culture, lifestyle activities and traditions in society. One way you can do this is by watching popular Australian TV shows, where you can understand more about the way of life in Australia as well as maybe even end up discovering a new favourite TV show! Below is a list of some of Australia’s most popular TV shows, so be sure to check them out.

MasterChef Australia – Channel 10

If you’re a foodie or love to be creative in the kitchen, then be sure to watch MasterChef Australia for some unique blends of flavour, thrilling team challenges and spectacular dishes that look more like artwork than food! Watch how everyday Australians cook up a storm in the kitchen and take the ultimate test to be crowned Australia’s MasterChef.

Home & Away – Channel 7

If you’re one for drama and deep storylines, then Home & Away may be the perfect show to tune into and follow. It’s Australia’s most popular soap-opera that’s known for its setting in fictional beach town Summer Bay. Watch and follow the lives of residents and the drama that unfolds in each of their unique storylines.

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House Rules – Channel 7

Are you hands-on, practical, passionate about interior design or have a creative flair? Watch how six teams of everyday Australians taken on the incredible challenge of renovating each other’s homes to outstand the judges, score points and win the ultimate prize. Judge for yourself each house reveal and see what if your favourite team can make it to the top of the leaderboard.

The Project – Channel 10

If talking about current affairs, politics and relevant social issues interest you, then tune into The Project. It’s a panel-discussion show that delivers news differently, with celebrity guest appearances and comedic segments and punchlines to keep you amused throughout the program. Watch how debating interviews, controversial opinions and current social issues are put to the stage and delivered to the everyday Australian in a way that is unique and engaging.

The Voice Australia – Channel 9

Good tunes and blasting hits are what you’ll be in for if you tune into The Voice Australia. See how everyday Australians take on the incredible challenge of singing their way to the top to become Australia’s The Voice winner. See how judges coach them, critique them and motivate them to become professional performers, world-class rockstars and talented artists who want nothing more but than to sing their hearts out.

For more details, episode recaps and some behind-the-scenes footage, be sure to check out the website for each program.

The Best Free Things to do in Brisbane

The article is written by Nina Sudnitsin

If you’re running low on cash or you’re in need of a cultural intervention when in Brisbane, there are a multitude of activities to fulfil your sightseeing needs that keep your wallet decently full.

Brisbane is a culturally diverse city and home to beautiful nature which offers many free events and experiences that will suit people from any corner of the earth. So, if you’re craving an adventure, longing to take a break from your impending exam revision or you’re just feeling the mid-week blues, try out one of these free activities that fall under the categories of culture, music, fitness and nature.

CULTURE

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Take a city hall tour

What better way to explore a new city than exploring its landmark building? The Brisbane City Hall exudes 1920s art deco vibes and is a heritage listed building which schedules daily tours from 10:30am to 2:30pm. If you want a guaranteed spot, be sure to book online (it’s free!)

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Pick up a book at the State library

The State Library of Queensland (SLQ) is a unique library, thanks to its extraordinary architecture and its split five-level design. The SLQ is a custodian for Queensland’s history, so be sure to check out the wonderful small odes to our history as a state around the library. When you’re done exploring, pick a book, settle down in a comfy chair by the large glass windows and enjoy a quiet afternoon.

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Stroll through QAGOMA

Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art located in South Bank (next door to SLQ) are more than worth a day of exploring. Each season brings about new exhibits, so strap on your walking shoes, put on your thinking hat and get ready for a day of art critiquing.

Have a laugh at Knockoff

Every Friday evening, the Powerhouse, located in New Farm, plays host to a free comedy show. Local as well as national artists take the stage to deliver hilarious rants and epic one-liners. The evening takes place in an iconic Brisbane venue and this event is a great way to meet new people and have a good laugh.

MUSIC

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Sunday Sessions on the Green

There’s no better way to spend a Sunday evening than listening to great live music along the river. Every Sunday evening, a local music act plays enchanting tunes and funky grooves for the public. Enjoy the last bit of the weekend evening along River Quay in South Bank with a picnic blanket and some snacks to share with good company.

The Sound Society

The Sound Society is another live music program which is held in two locations –South Bank (from 2-7pm) and Roma Street parklands (9am-12pm) – on the first weekend of each month. With the backdrop of trees and palms, the chill atmosphere is a lovely way to spend your weekend catching up with friends or relaxing in the sun.

FITNESS

Take a free fitness class in South Bank

Every few months, South Bank parklands hosts free fitness classes. You heard right: no need to sign up for a gym membership! Whether you’re an early bird or night owl, there’s a class to suit any need. Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi are only a few of the multiple offerings. Bookings are not required and it’s an activity suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

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Hike up Mt Coo-tha

Located 15 minutes west of the CBD, taking a hike to the summit of Mt Coo-tha is a rewarding experience. There are over 60 different tracks to choose from and a helpful guide by the Brisbane City Council offers a great overview! Mt Coo-tha forest track map

If the options are overwhelming, why not settle on the route taken most, the Summit Circuit. It combines the Summit Track with the Mahogany Trail, and provides a complete circuit from JC Slaughter Falls to the unforgettable Mt Coo-tha Lookout.

NATURE

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Stroll through the Botanic Gardens

Speaking of Mt Coo-tha, the Botanic Gardens at Mt Coo-tha are stunning and it’s arguably the best parkland Brisbane has to offer. There are free guided walks from 11am to 1pm (excluding Sundays) or if you’d prefer to take a break from walking, there are free mini bus tours as well. Definite highlights at the Botanic Gardens include the beautiful tropical dome and the Japanese garden, so be sure to visit them.

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Visit the koalas at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre

In an outdoor setting and open every day from 10am-4pm, admission to the Koala Centre is free! Visitors can’t cuddle or pat the koalas as they’re situated in their natural habitat, but definitely bring a camera with you to snap the cute mammals as they go about their daily routine of eating and sleeping. There’s also an abundance of area for bushwalking and picnics!

Feeling the chill? Four tips to make the most of your winter

The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

Oh summer – it felt like you would last forever! The cool change has finally come around and its that time of year again that has us reaching for our ‘uggies’ (ugg boot/slippers). While it might feel like there’s little to do but rug-up and enter hibernation, the winter months are some of the best to explore new regions, start new activities and best of all, do all the things you’ve forgotten to do because you were at the beach. Turn off the heater and grab your scarf – here’s four things that are sure to make the most of your winter!

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1. Hit the slopes!

Remember your winters in Val Thorens? Skiing all-day, partying all night. If the Australian sunshine had you distracted last European winter, never fear -Australia has plenty of slopes and après-resorts to fill that Charmonix sized hole in your heart.

The Kosciuszko National Park is home to Thredbo, one of Australia’s most popular ski resorts. Thredbo also has the largest vertical drop of any Australian ski resort, at 672 m. Ski packages start at $171 per person, per night. Head to their website for more details.

Still thirsty for more adventure? Take a short flight over to the adventure-sport capital of the world, New Zealand. Flights from Sydney in July start at just $250 return.

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2. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

Remember all those hikes you googled in summer but never got around to? Winter is the perfect time of year to explore your cities array of national parks and coastal walks

With cooler weather and less crowds, that waterfall you’ve saved pictures of in your Instagram collection is bound to be 10x more beautiful up-close.

Winter is also the perfect time for overnight hiking. Visit your state’s national parks website for all the information you need to know before heading out.

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3. Get Gigging

Splendour in the Grass is arguably the highlight of the year for Australian music. If you missed out on tickets to the four-day extravaganza, be sure to check out the Splendour side-shows taking place in capital cities around Australia.

The Wombats, Marmozets and Ben Howard have already announced their tour dates, but event organiser, Secret Sounds, says there is plenty more to come.

Keep an eye out for updates as tickets are sure to sell-out fast!

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4. Shred for Summer

Still dreaming of those warm-nights and sun-drenched days? Get your body moving so you’re summer ready!

Winter is the best time to invest in your health so start a new sport, join a new gym or get yourself to a class you’ve been dying to try. Get training for August’s City to Surf fun-run, give Pilates another go, or check out F45 to see what all the hype’s about.

There’s no better way to warm up than to work up a sweat!

If you’ve tried and tested this list and you’re still feeling chill-ish, grab your favourite bikini and head north. It might be winter, but it is always warm somewhere in Australia.

6 TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY WHEN TRAVELLING IN AUSTRALIA

This article is written by Jane Churchill

When you realise how big Australia truly is, it can seem incredibly overwhelming when trying to arrange some cheap travel plans. Unlike Europe, trains are incredibly expensive here and buses are less accessible. However, don’t fret! Here is some advice on how to travel within Australia without breaking the bank!

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1. Flying

Flights between major cities is actually incredibly affordable in Australia. On websites such as Google Flights and SkyScanner, you can fly return between most major cities (excluding Perth) for under $100.00 on discount airlines such as Jetstar and Tiger Airways. If you jump onto SkyScanner, enter your destinations and search “Whole Month” the cheapest travel dates will pop up for you. Flights can be as cheap as $25 from Brisbane to Sydney or $50 one way between Sydney and Melbourne.

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2. Ride Sharing
If you’re really trying to squeeze on costs, ride sharing is another great option. Some great websites to use are:
Share Ur Ride – shareurride.com.au
Life Social – lifesocial.com.au

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3. Utilise Social Media
Facebook and Instagram are great tools for connecting with other travellers. For example, a Facebook Group titled “Les Francaise en Australie” has over 23,000 members of active travellers who are constantly posting about different opportunities/car pooling. Other groups such as Melbourne Australia Backpacker/Traveler have almost 50,000 members! Search Facebook for groups from your country!

4. Stay in Hostels and Airbnbs
If you’re trying to travel cheaply then staying in a hotel will blow most of your budget. Hostels are not only cheap, but a great way to connect with other travellers. So don’t be afraid if you’re travelling solo, because you will be surprised how easy it is to make friends! A great website to search for hostels is Hostel Word.

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5. Couch Surfing
Couch Surfing is an app available on Android and iOS which allows you to connect and even stay for free with locals in your desired destination. This is a great way to get an authentic experience, however do be careful with who you choose. A good indicator of safety is through the reviews and ratings left by previous travellers who have stayed/met with this person.

6. Venture out from major cities
Although the major cities might seem the most attractive and accessible, if you’re trying to save money they won’t be your best bet. The average cost for one night in a dorm style hostel in Sydney is about $50-$60. Try some other destinations still within a close proximity to a major airport such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Wollongong, Newcastle & Nelson Bay and Byron Bay. All these places accomodate to travellers with sights to see and places to stay, but you will be spending significantly less on food and accommodation.

And for the best deals for courses for international students, you better check Study Anywhere or you can contact them directly to hello@studyanywhere.com.au

Must-try Activities in Brisbane

The article is written by Kelsa McIntyre

Don’t know what to do this weekend in Brisbane? From Ghost tours to Kangaroos, we’ve got you covered.

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Wine and Painting

If you like the sound of Wine combined with Painting then this might be the perfect activity for you. BYO wine or beer and enjoy a night of creativity at Cork and Chroma. Sessions are $55 and include all of the essentials for you to get your creative juices flowing including a qualified artist to guide you along the way. So grab a friend, your fave bottle of wine and enjoy a night of tipsy creativity.
Where: 4 Montague Road, South Brisbane.

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Guided Tour

Whether you’re new to Brisbane or think you know the city well. A free guided tour is a way to explore new parts of the city and offers a chance to meet new people. The tour will take you through the Brisbane Arcade, the Botanical Gardens and many more of Brisbane’s attractions. Tours run seven days a week departing at 10:30am. Oh, and did I mention they’re FREE.

Where: Meeting point is the Brisbane Visitor Information and Booking Centre, 167 Queen Street Mall.

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Ghost Tours

If a free-guided tour doesn’t excite you maybe a GHOST TOUR will. Established in 1998, Ghost Tours takes you on a historical adventure through some of Brisbane’s and surrounding suburbs scariest sites. A tour guide will entertain (or give you nightmares) with their ghoulish storytelling as they take you through the haunted sites. Brisbane Ghost Tours have themed tours or cemetery tours depending on what interests you. Prices range from $15 for Students to $20 for Adults, with speciality tours incurring higher prices. There’s a ghost tour every weekend and some on weeknights so be sure to check out the Brisbane Ghost Tour website for all the details.
Where: Dependent on what Ghost Tour you choose, each tour will have a different meeting point.

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Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

If you haven’t held a Koala or pet a Kangaroo yet, there’s no better place than the World’s First and Largest Koala Sanctuary. You can experience a free meet and greet with a Koala every day, where you are able to pat and stand next to a Koala in order to get the classic Koala tourist pic. The Sanctuary is home to 100 species of Australian native wildlife, including platypus, Tasmanian Devils and many more. If cute animals aren’t enough to get you excited maybe free movies after your adventure filled day will help. Every 1^st and 3^rd Friday of the month there are free outdoor movie screenings at 5:30pm. Check out The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary website for all the details. The Sanctuary is open 7 days a week with student prices of $24 or $36 for Adult admission.
Where: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket.

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Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (QGOMA)

With over 17,000 works of historical, modern and contemporary art QGOMA is the leading gallery of South East Queensland. There are new exhibitions every couple of months so even if you’ve visited in the past the exhibitions are sure to have changed. Entry to QGOMA is free however some special events may incur an entry fee. Spend the day strolling around the gallery then the night exploring South Bank. South Bank is just a short stroll from the gallery and features many delicious dinner options as well the famous Wheel of Brisbane.

Where: Stanley Place, South Brisbane.

Anyone of these activities is sure to engage and excite you in different ways. Be sure to let us know if you partake in any of the activities mentioned by tagging us in your post! @studyanywhere

SYDNEY EXPLORED: YOUR HIGHLIGHT GUIDE TO VIVID 2018

The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

Sydney’s Vivid Festival is back! From May 25 – June 16, Sydney will light up as Australia’s biggest art and culture festival transforms the city into an array of colour and sensory experience. The best way to explore Vivid is by foot. Here’s a guide to some of this year’s must-see locations.

SEE:

Harmony Valley – Rainbow of Peace & Trees of Friendship
The Rocks
I’m guilty of having already selfied with this site prior to the official Vivid Launch, but once you set eyes on this masterpiece of warm-and-fuzzy’s, you’ll understand why.

The piece by numerous Australian, Iranian and Asian artists represents harmony, joy and happiness through a set of large inflatable sculptures. The Japanese ‘kawaii’ references are obvious, as are feelings of youthfulness, friendship and vulnerability.

Event organisers are encouraging visitors to interact with the sculpture by forming a human chain that connects with each end of the rainbow. The sculpture responds to this show of connection with sounds, animation and pulsing light.

Hidden Art
Kings Cross
Created by TAFE NSW students, Hidden Art takes visitors on an augmented reality journey through the imaginative worlds of some of Australia’s greatest sculptors and visual artists.

Simply visit the Fitzroy Gardens and open up your Vivid Sydney app to unlock Hidden Art. The stories behind the new-age, media sculptures will come alive as users scan the area.

Installations change weekly throughout the Vivid Festival.

Lighting of the Sails: Metamathemagical
Circular Quay
To celebrate the 10^th Anniversary of the Vivid Festival, Australian artist Jonathan Zawada has transformed the Sydney Opera House sails into a series of kinetic digital sculptures.

Zawada’s inspiration for the concept came from imagery inspired by the Australian environment. Everyday objects and natural specimens will undergo metamorphosis in Zawada’s creation, featuring alongside a canon of Australian artwork.

Skylark
City and Surrounds
There’s little chance you’ll miss this installation by Iain Reed of 32 Hundred Lighting. Skylark incorporates interactive lighting of the Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay skyscrapers. For the first time this year, a fully interactive custom-built laser has been incorporated into the installation.

Every 30 minutes the beacon, skyscrapers, pillars of light and the Harbour Bridge put on a two-minute sky show.

Snugglepot and Cuddlepie
City and Surrounds
The iconic Australian characters of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie are celebrated in this year’s event, on their hundredth anniversary. Australian’s are familiar with May Gibbs’ famous children’s characters, who dropped out of a gumtree to a world of adventure.

Gibbs’ work is celebrated on the façade of Sydney’s 1845 Customs House.

Tumbalong Lights
Darling Harbour
Tumbalong Lights features four under-the-sea-themed, interactive-play installations. This year’s installation is all-inclusive, meaning that people with disabilities have full access to interact with the displays.

The display features the following works: ‘Beneath the Sea’ by Matt York; ‘Enchanted Garden’ by Lucka Slatner; ‘In the Scale of the Sea’ by George Buchanan and Govinda Webster; and ‘Ride into the Night’ by Antony Neeson and Mark Vincent.

Virtual Vibration
The Rocks
Fans of modernism should head to the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia to view the evolving light display created by the Spinifex Group in collaboration with Australian artist Jonny Niesche and composer, Mark Pritchard.

The display transforms the exterior façade of the MCA, lighting up the building with a psychedelic, sensory experience, accompanied by a mesmerising score.

All light installations begin at 6:00pm and finish at 11:00pm from May 25 – June 16.

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EAT:

The Squire’s Landing
Circular Quay, The Rocks
Take in the sights and sounds of this year’s Vivid Festival at the newly opened, The Squire’s Landing. The microbrewery and bar is the latest venture by a master brewer, James Squire. Offering striking views of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, The Squire’s Landing serves up an array of on-tap beer and fresh food.

For a limited time only, The Squire’s Landing is home to the world’s oldest surviving beer, The Wreck Preservation Ale. The beer is crafted using 220-year old yeast discovered upon the wreckage of Australia’s oldest merchant shipwreck, the Sydney Cove.

6 Free Walking Distance Places to visit in Adelaide City

The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk

If you live in Adelaide or plan to visit this beautiful city, then you’ll know that there’s plenty of fun things to do. Adelaide is a city that is much smaller than Sydney or Melbourne, but thanks to its ingenious and practical grid design, it’s a city made for you to easily walk around and explore its sights.

Lucky for you, we’ve thought of 6 places to visit in Adelaide city that are all free and within walking distance from each other.

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Botanic Gardens
Why not surround yourself with nature and stroll through green fields and exotic flower gardens in Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens? It’s a perfect setting if you simply want to relax and admire the natural scenery or shoot some awesome close-ups if you’re an avid photographer.
Location: North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000 (north-east corner of Adelaide City)
When: Open from Monday-Friday 7.15am to 5.30pm, and Saturday-Sunday 9am to 5.30pm.
Entrance: Free

Adelaide Central Market
Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a fresh produce market and indulge in an array of international cuisines and multicultural eateries. Adelaide’s Central Market offers something to satisfy everyone’s appetite, whether it be finger-licking pastries and desserts, tasty treats, wholesome health-foods, or fresh and deliciously filling soul-food.
Location: 44-60 Gouger St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Open from Tuesday 7am to 5.30pm, Wednesday-Thursday 9am to 5.30pm, Friday 7am to 9pm and Saturday 7am to 3pm.
Entrance: Free

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Chinatown
Walk through Adelaide’s Chinatown and see for yourself the well-established presence of Asian culture and cuisine. Enjoy authentic Asian food or wander through countless greengrocers and supply stores.
Location: Within the Adelaide Central Markets (between Grote and Gouger Streets)
When: Open 24 Hours
Entrance: Free

Art Gallery
Surround yourself with all things art and creative by entering the South Australian Art Gallery. Wander through quiet halls and dark lit exhibition rooms as you gaze around visual displays and abstract expressions.
Location: North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
When: 10am to 5pm every day
Entrance: General admission is free, but some exclusive previews and exhibitions require entry fees.

Museum
For curious minds and history buffs, why not explore the South Australian Museum and see what historical treasures it has to offer. There’s so much to see around every corner, so make sure you spend enough time to see as much as you can!
Location: North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
When: 10am to 5pm every day
Entrance: Free

Victoria Square
At the heart of the city is Victoria Square, a public parkland and space featuring a fountain and where a number of festivals and events are held annually. It’s the perfect space to read a book and relax while surrounded by Adelaide’s stunning cityscape and heritage buildings.
Location: Grote St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Open 24 hours
Entrance: Free

A glance in the Aussie espresso culture

The article is written by Paola Bianchi Cover photo by Sacha Fernandez

Coffee culture in Australia is a big deal and entirely different from other heavy-coffee-drinkers countries around the world like Brazil, USA or Finland. Not better or worse, but different.

Even though people buy lots of instant coffee (ugh!) from the supermarket, if we are looking for quality and real flavour, what Aussies care about a lot, we should check out the glorious cafe culture that has been arising in Australia since immigrants arrived from Italy and Greece with their coffee expertise.

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Alpha on Flickr

ESPRESSO IS (STILL) THE KING

Espresso is the main (often the only) brew method used to drink coffee in every cafe. Espresso machines are kind of the heart of the coffee shop and require a knowledgeable barista to run it, or two or three baristas during peak hours! Yeah, you hear right.

One barista will be doing the shots of coffee, this means grinding and weighing the coffee with the aim to hit the perfect extraction by balancing grams of coffee grounds and ml of water and avoiding under-extracting the coffee (resulting in a sour flavour) or over-extracting it (getting a bitter flavour).

Another barista will be steaming and frothing the milk. The milk should be silky and shiny. Each type of milk has different tolerance to the heat, and therefore soy milk will burn faster than full cream milk for example.

Pic from Market Lane Coffee Facebook page

ART LATTE BECAME MANDATORY

In super busy cafes there may be another barista just doing the milk pouring! This person would be the ‘art latte master’ of course. The forms made with milk is absolute no requisite for a flawless coffee, but it has become a required aesthetic in the Australian coffee culture. Hearts, tulips and rosettes. This is known as ‘free pouring’ and there even are competitions!

BARISTAS CAN AGREE ON THIS

Some will say that doing the shots is the most critical part of the job, and others will state that the milk is the most delicate part. But everyone will agree that there is one thing that makes the difference: coffee beans must be ground as close as possible to the moment of the brewing process. The aroma and flavour of the coffee starts to degrade as soon as hits the air.

Barista

Tristan Kenney on Flickr

STARS IN THE FLOOR

It is fair to say that (good) baristas are essential to the industry, some courses provide certifications, and any café’s regulars customers will want to establish a friendly relationship with the barista. After all, they are making their coffee hit every day!

Usually, they are called gun-baristas, because of their efficiency in the espresso machine. It’s normal that they will remember almost every face, name and coffee preference of the café’s regulars. Yeap! Good memory these Hospo workers!

Note that saying ‘expresso’ is a common mistake you do not want to make in front of your barista.

Single Origin coffee

Joanne Wan on Flickr

TRENDS ON BEANS

When the coffee is sourced from various producers and countries and then mixed to take the best of each bean is called ‘blend’ and it’s by far the most sold coffee and you will find it in 99% of the coffee shops. Each cafe will use one particular blend that will be distinctive to that specific shop, and what customers will come back for! (besides their friendly service)

Each brand or coffee company has a few blends and cafes that roast their own coffee will often have seasonal blends. Speciality coffee they say! This is what distinguish top-notch trendy cafes from others. These cafes will often have ‘single origin’ coffee which means that the coffee is sourced from one single producer or region in one country, and purists will swear that is the best quality you can find.

Purists will also argue that decaffeinated coffee should be erased from a menu and that alternative kinds of milk like soy, coconut and almond are not acceptable. In reality, most cafes offer them to adapt to what customers actually want, which is their ultimate goal, right?

coffee selection

Alpha on Flickr

BLACK OR WHITE

Do you drink coffee to wake up? Or you wake up to drink coffee? Either way, here are three steps to order your coffee like a genuinely mature, well-informed coffee drinker in Australia.

1. Know your espresso options: ‘black’ or ‘white’.

Black options:

– Espresso or also known as ‘ short black’ (just one shot of espresso)

– Short macchiato (one espresso and a drop of milk)

– Long black (hot water and double espresso on top, like an Americano but the water goes first to avoid breaking the crema)

– Long mac/ long macchiato (double espresso with a drop of milk, some places serve it with a little of hot water at the bottom)

Milk-based drinks are:

– Latte (more steamed milk than foam)

– Cappucino (lots of foam, little-steamed milk, chocolate on top)

– Flat white (no milk foam at all) – This type of milk coffee was actually invented in Australia!

– Mocachino (milk foam, espresso mixed with chocolate and more choc on top)

2. Know how much actual coffee to order:
By default, a regular size of coffee (8oz) has one shot of espresso, and a large size (12oz) will have two shots unless you ask your preference:

– Strong, for two shots in regular or 3 shots in large size.

– Weak, for half shot in regular or 1 shot in large.

3. Know how to express your desired coffee:
All the adjectives of your coffee should be said before the type of coffee itself.

For example, don’t say ‘please a latte with skinny milk, with 2 shots and 3/4 full’.

Better say ‘a strong, 3/4 full, skinny latte please’. Sounds nicer, right?

Oh! When doing takeaway, if you are having sugar in your coffee (yes, you are allowed) make sure you ask for it before the barista makes your coffee. Not wasting barista’s time can be much appreciated during peak hours!

Okay, are you ready to make your order? Pay and sip!

Road Trip to the Isa

The article is written by Ebbony Lawman The cover photo by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

You possibly say g’day mate on the daily, reference The Castle in a convo and wait for your mates to tout one back whilst you all proudly listen to Triple J. Maybe you subtly name drop that time you’ve seen Thor in Byron Bay. Not to mention the Gold Coast is your weekend escape and your hikes are through conveniently mapped and pathed national parks, so much so you can proudly say you’ve seen the best parts of Queensland. But there’s one part of Queensland that not many people talk about, which unlike the above, rings closer to what you know Australia is famous for, is the land down under, the actual outback, littered with kangaroos, cattle and cowboys, where grassy greens are traded for prickly spinifex and distant water is later realised to be just an inferior mirage from the dry desert heat, sound fun?

Well if you point your google maps towards North-West Queensland, burrowed among the Selwyn Ranges and the banks of the Leichhardt River there’s a small town called Mount Isa which is affectionately known as the ‘oasis of the outback’. Mount Isa is the town where you’ll quickly appreciate downing an ice-cold beer and at the end of the day and indulging in the best steak sourced locally from the stations. This town is far different to what Thor feels on the coast with a mine at the town’s fringe. So why should you visit this small town in the middle of nowhere? Well, it’s home to the world’s third largest
rodeo which occurs annually in August and this year happens to be the 60^th anniversary!

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The Rodeo has been around since 1959 and is sure to give you the true Aussie experience you can’t get anywhere else;
‘It’s where the romance of the Australian Outback meets the grit of a mining town, east meets west and man meets beast’ Isa Rodeo 2018.

All the famous Australian icons will be there from Nolesy (Shannon Noll) to Barnsey (Jimmy Barnes) and many more. You’ll be able to get up close in the action including; ‘saddle bronc, bareback bronc, bull riding, rope & tie, steer wrestling, team roping, ladies barrel racing, ladies breakaway roping’ Isa Rodeo 2018.

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Photo by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

*TIP Be sure to book your accommodation in ASAP, as this time of year hotels fill up fast!

Right, so you’re ready to leave the coast and head to the outback, you’ve got your RM Williams boots and cowboy hat ready! It’s going to be a long but exciting trip to get there.
There are three ways to travel and we’ve got all the best tourist spots to keep your journey memorable.

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Brisbane to Mount Isa (Flying)

The quickest way to get to the Isa is flying, the two-and-a-half-hour flight which will set you back about $600 return, exy I know but, they do have specials.

*Tip Subscribe to Virgin Blue Happy Hour email alerts.

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But why not hit the road and experience the true blue, fair dinkum Aussie way to go bush? You don’t need to be an expert off-roader to explore the legendary Queensland Outback and get a taste for life on the land.

Brisbane to Mount Isa (Inland)

Say goodbye to the dairy cows, grassy pastures and ocean air and tip your hat towards dry desert heat and craploads of kangaroos who will happily flex their pecs at you on the road, make you stop, and slowly hop off like they won ‘that one’. You’ll also learn to appreciate a quality roadhouse steak burger, as franchises fade away when you cruise inland through Toowoomba, Roma and Longreach.

*Tip Be careful driving at night though as there are a lot of kangaroos, emu’s and they will do more damage to your car then you will to them, trust they will hop out of nowhere and in front of you.

Furthermore, it’s important to take lots of pit stops and fuel up, snacks and drinks during your trip, we recommend stretching your legs at Roma (478km) and experience the Roma Saleyard Australians largest cattle selling centre. Tours of the Saleyard are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the raised walkways give you an excellent vantage point to catch the excitement of cattle sales.

Next stop Tambo (900km) Teddy Bear shop perfect for a quick cuddle and a collector’s item. Then onto Longreach (1200km) where you can check out the Australian Stockman’s Musem and if you plan it right, attend The Stockman show which celebrates the stockman’s skills and horsemanship.

From Longreach it’s a long hall as it’s 6hrs drive to Mount Isa, we recommend stretching your legs at Cloncurry Rotary Lookout and soak up that country air if you have time to spare you can drive out the Ernest Mine, it’s a site worth seeing. Then you’re only one hour left to your destination Mount Isa.

unnamed-5 Photographed by Tane Cadman

Driving from Brisbane to Mount Isa (along the coast)
This drive via Townsville is longer – 2300km – but has the beautiful Queensland coast and way more attractions to see. First, stop Hervey Bay (283km) stay the night and explore Fraser island with shipwrecks and stunning beaches, this place will leave you in awe and wanting to move here permanently.

Next stop Bundaberg the birthplace of Bundaberg rum visit the Bundaberg Distillery (110km) and learn about how this famous rum has become such an Australian icon. Then on to Rockhampton, you can take a nightcap here as there is plenty of accommodation to choose from, plus you can explore the Capricorn Caves (288km) this is a must-see.

Next stop the famous Airlie Beach (481km) soak up the sun, visit the Airlie beach lagoon grab a bite to eat. Then onto Townsville (275km) where there is plenty of fun to be had, book a hotel and enjoy the various amounts of restaurants, shopping and the Reef HQ.

Then inland to Mount Isa (904km), make sure you’re well rested, fuelled up and got lots of snacks as this is going to be a long drive. If you get there early make sure to book a tour down a mine shaft at Hard Time Mines, you’ll learn first-hand what it takes to be a miner and what life is like underground.

unnamed-8 Photographed by Tane Cadman

As we mentioned earlier Mount Isa has some of the best steaks in Queensland, be sure to book yourself a table at the Isa Hotel and try their Wagyu steak it won’t disappoint! If that’s not up your alley check out The Ovi, Mount Isa’s favourite pub known for the affordable-yummiest crumb steak in town. If that’s not your thing, grab a picnic basket and head down to Lake Moondarra and grab a selfie with the peacocks.

unnamed-9 Photographed by Tane Cadman

*Tip Make sure to get a selfie at the famous crossroads and check out the view on Telstra hill.

Then onto the Mount Isa Rodeo, were your days and nights will be filled with outback entertainment, country folk and good food and beverages.

unnamed-2 Photographed by Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo

By the end of this trip, your Instagram will be flooded with some of the most unique photos of Queensland and you’ll have hundreds of stories to tell your friends and family for years to come.

Just remember that Queensland’s Outback is connected by both sealed roads and dirt tracks. Before you head off, don’t forget to brush up on the road rules, grab a first aid kit for the car to ensure a safe and successful road trip and most importantly have fun!

I would like to thank my Fiancé and his family for sharing their experiences of Mount Isa with me, to create this wonderful post that I can share with you.

Let us know in the comments, about your Outback adventure!

How to eat like a Melburnian

The article is written by Paola Bianchi

5 essential things to be on the right track

1. Feeling like toast for breakfast? Better be Sourdough!

You can find Sourdough bread (fermented dough) in any respectable bakery, cafe and supermarket. If it is wholemeal, organic, mixed with Rye or with seeds, you are closer to eat like a Melburnian. Give a try to the classic buttered bread with Vegemite and avocado. Yummy!

For Melburnians, it’s all about gut health.

Bonus: our fav spots in Melbourne are Baker D. Chirico and Tivoli Road Bakery. You won’t be disappointed!

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2. When ordering eggs, the waitress will ask ‘how do you want your eggs’
and it is expected to be a specific answer. Most menus show an ‘eggs your way’ option. What does that mean? It means you can choose between a lot of possibilities! We definitely haven’t seen this in my hometown.

Boiled eggs (soft or hard); scramble eggs (soft and fluffy); fried eggs (sunny side up or over); poached eggs (hard or runny) and baked eggs.

Bonus: for eggs made like in heaven, head to The Kettle Black or Hardware Société. These places have been delivering awesome eggs for a long time.

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3. Have you been invited to a Christmas meal?
Fabulous! Make sure to bring wine or dessert. Any good quality red wine will be happily accepted. If you want to please sweet tooths, get a lovely dense fruit cake, plum pudding or the old fashion gingerbread.

According to a survey made by Woolworths (a big chain of supermarkets), over half a million pavlovas are usually sold on the week previous to Christmas. Get a pavlova; you can’t go wrong!

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4. Did you think that ordering a coffee is easy peasy?
Think again! The coffee culture in Melbourne is a serious thing, and the competition between cafes, roasters and coffee suppliers is a hot subject.

To cover the basics, we have the espresso coffee which can be black (think long black or double ristretto) or white (with your choice of milk, think lattes or cappuccinos).

There are also other alternatives that are becoming incredibly popular like filtered coffee (served hot and black) and cold drip/ cold brew (served cold, black or white)

If unsure of which coffee to get, we suggest to talk to the barista and ask for a recommendation. Usually, they are happy to go quickly through their options to help you determine which drink suits you better.

Bonus: our top-notch places for coffee fans are St Ali in South Melbourne (sit in one of the communal tables) and Patricia Coffee Brewers in the CBD (no sitting here, it’s a standing room!).

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5. Keep the politeness.
We know it can be exciting to try new things and you may want to do it ASAP. But always say this two magic words: ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. We found that Melburnians are so polite that even when they didn’t do anything wrong, they will say sorry first.

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