This is your March 2016 edition of the What’s On newsletter. Each month our local staff curates a round-up of their favorite events and must-do’s for the month. It includes everything from dance parties to fun runs. Current TEAN Australia students can check their inbox to get the full digest for their city.
Townsville
Ocean Film Festival Australia [$30.50]
When: March 3, 7-10pm
Where: Riverway Arts Centre, Thuringowa
Showcasing more than 2 hours of sublime footage taken above and below the surface, the Ocean Film Festival is not to be missed! They include short and longer films from all around the world, so if you’re into freediving, spearfishing, sailing, or blowing bubbles of any kind, check it out.
North Queensland Dry Tropics Celebrate the Sea Festival [FREE]
When: March 6, 8am-1pm
Where: Pallarenda Beach, Townsville
Annual free event to celebrate both Clean-up Australia Day and National Seaweek. Held at beautiful Pallarenda Beach. Including entertainment, food, interactive displays, activities, and presentations by marine scientists & traditional owners.
Flickerfest 25th International Short Film Festival [$20]
When: March 4, 7:30pm (Best of Australian Shorts) and March 5, 7:30pm (Short Laughs Comedy)
Where: School of Arts Theatre, Cnr Stanley and Walker Streets, Townsville City
View the 2016 selection of highlights from Flickerfest’s Australian Academy Award accredited competition for short films, bringing you the best of Australian shorts. Doors open 6:30pm, with bar and snacks available.
Colour: Secret Language of the Reef [$7.50 for local residents, $15 otherwise]
When: On throughout March, 9am-5pm daily
Where: Museum of Tropical Queensland, Townsville City
A new interactive exhibition which explores how coral and marine creatures on the Great Barrier Reef use colour, light, patterns and textures to communicate. After decades of research, scientists have a good understanding of the Great Barrier Reef’s changing kaleidoscope of colour. Today we know it can indicate the health of the reef, warn of danger, promise partnership and assist in deception and concealment.
Riverway Movie Night: SpongeBob Squarepants Sponge Out of Water [$7.50 for local residents, $15 otherwise]
When: March 18, 7:15-9:15pm
Where: Riverway Lagoon, Riverway, Thuringowa
See Spongebob, Patrick the Starfish and friends come ashore to salvage the stolen recipe for their most sacred snack – Krabbie Patties. Pirate Burger Beard the super villain thief is an unruly match for the underwater friends. However, they learn that the only way to stop a super villain is to become super heroes! Don’t miss SpongeBob’s most heroic adventure yet while relaxing in the lagoon.
Gold Coast
When: March 4-20
Where: Various locations – see website
Bleach* Festival connects art with community. With sophisticated, contemporary and innovative artistic programming, Bleach* Festival is an expression of music, theatre, dance, visual arts, outdoor events and much more. Bleach* Festival 2016 will feature eight world premiere works created by some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists, across three huge weekends. With events and displays planned for a variety of locations, jump online to see what’s happening near you. (There are dance, visual arts and music events happening at both Bond and Griffith campuses)
BeachCare Broadbeach
When: Saturday, March 5 from 9-11am
Where: Broadbeach foreshore
Come along and care for your local beach with BeachCare! Help make a difference to our coastal environment by planting natives, removing invasive weeds and picking up litter. Activities are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Equipment and light refreshments will be provided, please bring a water bottle, wear enclosed shoes and sunsmart clothing. Email Tegan at beachcare@griffith.edu.au for more info.
Surfers Paradise Beachside Night Markets [FREE]
When: Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night
Where: Surfers Paradise Foreshore
Make your way to the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets to wander along the coastal stretch of more than 120 market stalls, while live entertainers set a casual mood in their performance. One of the largest of the Gold Coast Night Markets, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets feature a variety of premium products, including fashion, jewellery, accessories, artworks, photographs, beauty products and decor. It has a funky vibe and you can pick up some unique stuff for family and friends back home.
The Village Markets [FREE]
When: March 6 and March 20 from 8.30am to 1pm
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Lower Gold Coast Hwy
95+ of the best boutique market stalls around by the loveliest of folk in fashion, vintage, art, homewares and lifestyle, plus street eats, live tunes and plenty of sweet Sunday vibes.
Miami Marketta – Street Food Market [FREE]
When: Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday night, 5pm to 10pm
Where: 21-21 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Watch Miami come alive with Gold Coast’s first street food markets from all different nationalities – complete with a dessert hall! Street food brings together an eclectic and authentic food mix in an open air dining experience. The main stage hosts local independent blues, jazz, and indie alternative artists.
Chillout Sunday at Finders Keepers [FREE]
When: Every Sunday, from 2pm
Where: Finders Keepers Bar & Dining Lounge – 49 James Street, Burleigh Heads.
Every Sunday Finders Keepers hosts James Street’s ONLY Sunday session. Doors open at 2pm, with live music starting at 2.30pm. If you’re looking for a laid back and live Sunday, then Finders Keepers is the place to be! Live Music and weekly offers.
Surfers Paradise ParkRun [FREE]
When: Every Saturday, 7am (until March 26)
Where: Evandale Parklands (meet on the southern side of Evandale Lake)
ParkRun organise weekly, 5km timed runs. They are open to everyone, free, and are safe and easy to take part in. These events take place in pleasant parkland surroundings and people of all abilities are encouraged to take part.
Live Music – Saskwatch [$15]
When: Sunday, March 13
Where: Soundlounge, 165 Durringan St, Currumbin
Melbourne indie-soul band Saskwatch head out on a huge national tour to support their acclaimed third album. The new album was recorded over a month long period at Mt Slippery – an old silversmith warehouse come recording studio on the outskirts of Philadelphia, USA. Fresh off the main support for The Ruben’s big national tour this year and Groovin The Moo festival, Saskwatch smash out their live show, hard, rough and tight.
Strike Bowling Bar [$6 – $16 per game]
When: Everyday, 10am – 2am
Where: Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Situated smack bang in the middle of the entertainment precinct on Cavill Avenue, Strike Bowling Surfers Paradise is the jewel in the crown of Gold Coast’s nightlife. Not your typical bowling alley. Think 12 bowling lanes, ultra hip karaoke rooms, a killer cocktail bar and a pizza menu that will bowl you over! Then add giant AV projectors, the latest music clips playing all day long, pool tables and a weekend nightclub atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Strike Surfers Paradise is a firm favourite with the locals.
Aqua Splash Inflatable Water Park [$5 – $15]
When: Everyday, 7am – 6pm
Where: Broadwater Parklands, Marine Parade, Southport
Experience all the fun of the Gold Coast’s only inflatable water park! Book online. (sessions run every hour)
Australian Street Entertainment Championships
When: Friday, March 25 to Monday, March 28 from 10am – 9pm
Where: Surfers Paradise Foreshore
Surfers Paradise transform into carnival of laughter and entertainment with the return of the Australian Street Entertainment Championships. See both amateur and professional performers take to stages across Surfers Paradise, all vying for the crowd’s attention. See back-flipping daredevils, Flair Riders, and BMX stunt shows four-times daily in Cavill Mall.
Stand up Comedy Night [FREE]
When: Every Monday night, 7:30pm
Where: Broadbeach Tavern, Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Some of the best stand up comedians from around the country take to the stage to entertain you. The venue also hosts a Sunday Session featuring local and national bands.
Quicksilver Pro and Roxy Pro [FREE]
When: March 10-21
Where: Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta
Witness the world’s best surfers for the opening stop on the 2016 WSL Championship Tour. Join the top male and female surfers as they battle across high performance waves on the best right hand point breaks on earth. Beautiful beaches and warm water close to the buzzing and never sleeping Gold Coast in summertime. Watch it live on the Gold Coast.
Gold Coast Italian Festival [$7]
When: March 26-27 (Sat 10:30am-10:30pm, Sun 10:30am-8pm)
Where: Pratten Park, Broadbeach
Prepare to savour the tastes, sights and sounds of Italy when the 1st annual Gold Coast Italian Festival descends on Broadbeach. Over the Easter long-weekend experience a taste of Italy, from fine food to music, family entertainment and fast cars, the Gold Coast Italian Festival will celebrate all the best things about la bella Italia and its dolce vita culture.
Yoga Classes, Robina [FREE]
When: Tuesday from 9-10 am and Thursday 11am-12pm
Where: Robina Community Centre, 196 Robina Town Centre Drive
In conjunction with the Gold Coast City Council’s Active and Healthy campaign, the centre presents many new yoga asana, relaxation and meditation classes. All these community classes are free or low cost, so take this opportunity to relax the body and calm the mind. Bring a yoga mat or large towel. *Classes also at Mermaid Beach
Brisbane
Sails Festival [FREE]
When: March 25 from 9am – 4pm
Where: Redcliffe
This year the Sails Festival will be hosting the 68th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race with over 150 Gourmet Foods, Market Stalls, Rides, Live Music, Kites and more!
Steam Train Sunday [Concession $18]
When: First Sunday of the month
Where: Roma Street Station
“Once a month you can travel over the Brisbane River and through some of Brisbane’s train stations in vintage carriages pulled by a coal fuelled steam train. With the breeze from the open carriage windows and the sound of the whistle blowing, you could almost imagine you are aboard the Hogwarts Express.”
French Film Festival [$17-38]
When: March 11 – April 3
Where: Palace Barracks and Palace Centro
Choose from over 20 different French films and attend their showing at The Palace Barracks and The Palace Centro on their selected dates.
The Sound of Music [Tickets $69-149]
When: From March 11
Where: Queensland Performing Arts Centre
“The world’s favourite musical The Sound of Music is returning to Australia. This critically acclaimed London Palladium production tells the uplifting true story of the von Trapp family’s flight across the mountains and works its magic once again, for young and old alike.” Get ready to sing along to some of your childhood favourites!
Fortitude Valley Markets [FREE]
When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 9am-4pm
Where: Brunswick Street Mall
The Valley Markets has a diverse range of vintage clothing, knick knacks, and accessories. It makes for a nice afternoon as it is located next to Brunswick Street, home to many of Brisbane’s popular restaurants. Night Markets are expected to start soon as well.
Disney Under The Stars [Tickets From $69]
When: Sunday, March 13
Where: The Riverstage Brisbane
Come sing a long to your favourite Disney songs that will be played by a live orchestra and some famous Aussie singers.
Eat Street Markets [$2 Entry]
When: Every Friday (4pm-10pm), Saturday (4pm-10pm) and Sunday (10am-3pm)
Where: Hamilton Wharf
“Eat Street’ is a wonderment of the senses. From aromatic international cuisines and vibrant textiles, to the enchanting sights and sounds of our live performers, Hamilton Wharf plays host to Brisbane’s newest and most interactive market experience.” Cronuts and Cruffins are a must! New Drive-In Theatre too!
Davies Park Markets [FREE]
When: Every Saturday from 6am – 2 pm
Where: Davies Park – West End
These markets have a wide range of goods in produce, clothing, and home wares. They also have a lot of international hot foods for you to try different tastes from around the world.
Brisbane Comedy Festival [Various Ticket Prices]
When: Feb 27 – March 24
Where: The Powerhouse, New Farm
“Starring dozens of international and Australian comedians, Brisbane Comedy Festival is a must-see if you need a giggle, chuckle, cackle or rip-snorter of a good time.”
Newcastle
Olive Tree Markets [FREE entry]
When: Saturday March 5 from 9am – 2pm
Where: Civic Park, (in front of the library and art gallery)
This is a great place to buy from a local artist. Want to get a gift for someone or a souvenir that’s more significant than a fake boomerang? This is the place! Discover Newcastle’s Leading Contemporary Handmade Art & Design Market in the beautiful grounds of Civic Park. Wander amongst over 150 unique stalls, meet the makers, sample gourmet artisan food, take part in workshops with local artists and designers and sit back and enjoy live music by talented local musicians. The Olive Tree Market is held on the 1st Saturday of the month, and the 1st & 3rd Saturday’s of November and December, from 9am–3pm in Civic Park, Newcastle. The Olive Tree market will run a program of free art & design workshops ‘Made in The Park’ in 2016.
Hunter & Gather Market [FREE entry]
When: Saturday March 19 from 9am – 2pm
Where: Pacific Park, East End Newcastle
Description: another awesome monthly market in Newcastle. This one is right by the beach. Make a day of it, buy some local bread and cheese and take it down to Newcastle beach for some sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen. A great place to grab a bit of Brekky and a killer coffee.
Sydney
Sydney Mardi Gras Festival and Parade [FREE]
When: Saturday March 5, 7-11pm
Where: Oxford and Flinders Street, Darlinghurst
The Sydney Mardi Gras Festival is one of largest annual LGBT pride celebrations in the world. Come see the amazing outfits and floats as they parade down Oxford Street. The parade is totally free of charge but make sure to get there early to get a good spot! This is a welcoming event available to anyone and a great way to see the diverse nightlife and culture that Sydney has to offer. There are additional LGBT events held throughout the first two weeks of March of which anyone can take advantage.
Royal Randwick Racecourse Autumn Carnival [$7.50]
When: Saturday March 5 and Saturday March 12
Where: Royal Randwick Racecourse (across from UNSW)
Come celebrate the beloved Australian pastime of horseracing on one of these two Saturdays in March. A day at the races is always jam packed with the thrill of winning, great food and drinks, and – of course – a trackside DJ to keep you dancing between races. Keep in mind, Australian racecourses are much different to those in the States and a dress code is required! So get gussied up and bring your fascinator (crazy hat) for a fun day in the sun.
Australian Open of Surfing [FREE]
When: March 1-6
Where: Manly Beach
Come see some of the top surfers in the world compete for the title at beautiful Manly Beach – all for free! In addition to surfing, there’s live music, food stalls, and other events on the sidelines. Don’t miss this!
Twilight at Taronga [$63.25]
When: March 4-5 and March 11-12
Where: Taraonga Zoo (Mosman)
Have you been to Taronga Zoo yet? If not, this concert series is a great excuse for a first visit to this incredible landmark. Listen to some great bands under the stars and take in exotic animals from around the world. Taronga Zoo boasts amazing views of Sydney Harbour and it’s only a ferry ride away from Circular Quay. It’s well worth the trip!
Taste of Sydney [$25 if purchased in advance, $30 at the door]
When: March 10 -13
Where: Centennial Park
Foodies unite! Taste of Sydney is a celebration of Sydney’s unique and progressive dining scene. This festival offers tastings from some of Sydney’s newest and hottest restaurants. There’s also a ton of interactive attractions and live entertainment in the park.
Moonlight Cinema [$16.50]
When: March 1-27
Where: Centennial Park
The moonlight cinema at Centennial Park is a beautiful way to spend an evening during the week or on the weekend. From brand new releases to cult classics, there’s a movie for everyone. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and BYOB if you please for a relaxing night under the stars.
Brewery Yard Markets [FREE]
When: March 6 and March 20 from 10am – 4pm
Where: Central Park, Sydney (28 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW)
On the first and third Sunday of every month, Central Park (less than a 5 minute walk from Central train station) is host to markets pedaling local eats and fashion alongside various live entertainment and art demonstrations. These markets are a great way to see another area in Sydney and gain appreciation for the unique arts and culture scene this city has to offer.
Party in the Park [$85]
When: Saturday March 19
Where: Rat Park, Warriewood, NSW
Party in the Park (PITP) is a classic Aussie festival featuring local up and coming bands. Festival-going is a common pastime for Australian uni students and this is a great way to meet some locals doing what they love. This festival is located on the far north side of Sydney but is still accessible via public transport. Because many people come in from far and wide to attend this festival, some attendees camp overnight in the nearby area. Camping information is available on the event website.
Romeo and Juliet at the Sydney Opera House [$45]
When: March 1-27
Where: Sydney Opera House
A classic tale on a classic stage! Seeing Romeo and Juliet at the Opera House is an event you’ll never forget.
The Gin Garden @ the Museum of Contemporary Art [FREE]
When: Thursdays – Sundays in March
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art
Inspired by a British exhibit currently at the museum, the MCA has created a pop-up bar (a Sydney pastime) that recreates the environment of a British summer garden party. Stop by the Gin Garden after a wander through the gallery (it’s free!) for some imaginative cocktails and great surrounds.
All About Women Festival [$27/event]
When: March 6
Where: Sydney Opera House
The All About Women Festival is a prelude to International Women’s Day on March 8. In its fourth year, All About Women is one of Sydney Opera House’s flagship festivals. It’s a full day of talks and discussions about ideas that matter to women and provides an important platform for women’s voices.
Wollongong
Twilight Markets [FREE]
When: March 4
Where: Flagstaff Hill, Wollongong
Bring a picnic blanket, enjoy light music, and savour flavours from international food stalls this summer at one of Wollongong’s iconic venues. From wood-fired pizza to French cuisine to delicious desserts – there will be something for everyone.
Great Ocean Pool Crawl [$30 Donation]
When: March 13 at 10am
Where: Start at the Corrimal Hotel
The Great Ocean Pool Crawl is an annual charity event, raising much-needed funds for Cancer Council NSW. You’ll get to swim two laps in seven different ocean pools with a free courtesy shuttle to take to from pool to pool. Once you complete your last swim, you’ll get lunch and a hot shower at the surf club.
BBQ n’ Beats [FREE entry]
When: March 27
Where: Pepe’s on the Beach, North Wollongong
Join the locals for a classic Aussie BBQ and some live music while you overlook the ocean at Pepe’s on the Beach. What better way to spend a Sunday?
Open Mic Night [FREE entry]
When: March 3 from 7 – 10:30pm
Where: Jane’s Café (40 Flinders St)
Want to work on your Aussie sense of humor? This open mic night is sure to be a colorful evening with lots of off-color humor. For anyone who may want to test out their American jokes on a new crowd, you can still sign up to participate!
Art on the Grass [FREE entry]
When: March 12
Where: Wentworth Street, Wollongong
Meet the working artists and browse the studios and stalls. Items include ceramics, paintings, drawings, sculptures, wood-work, jewelry, photography, felt crafts, candles, greeting cards and more. All produced by talented local artisans. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the shaded courtyard and listen to live music.
Melbourne
Queen Victoria Night Markets [FREE]
When: Every Wednesday night till March 30
Where: Queen Vic Markets
Eat and drink your way around the world one dish at a time with more than 50 street food traders cooking up a global feast. Check out the new BBQ Pit and meet up for a drink to quench the Summer heat in the Little Creatures Beer garden while being entertained by some of Melbourne’s hottest live performers. And if that’s not enough, there’s also specialty shopping from artisan designers and vintage collectors to keep you browsing well into the night
Festival of Live Art [Various prices from $20]
When: March 1-3
Where: Various venues around Melbourne
Adventurers, risk-takers and the just-plain-curious, get ready for Melbourne’s second Festival of Live Art. The Festival of Live Art captivates inner Melbourne for 13 days springing you out of your comfort zone with over 50 surprising, participatory and interactive art experiences Live art happens at the moment of encounter between artists and audiences; it can unfold in the street, the theatre, on the phone or over the internet. Don’t just watch: the Festival of Live Art is equal parts observing, creating and participating. Designed for curious audiences of one or two or hundreds, the Festival of Live Art takes the lids off all the boxes, offering journeys both microscopic and epic, from the seats to the streets. Tickets can be booked for one singular event, or purchase a Town Hall pass where you can see all events happening in the one day at the one venue.
French Film Festival [Students from $15.50]
When: March 2-24
Where: Various cinemas around Melbourne
If you prefer your films a little on the French side, don your beret and check out what’s on offer at the French Film Festival. With over 50 films on offer, there is bound to be something to tickle your French fancy.
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival [FREE and ticketed events]
When: March 4-13
Where: Various venues around Melbourne and Victoria
Melbourne is big on its food and wine, so of course we have a festival that is all about the good things in life! Melbourne Food and Wine Festival started as a spark of an idea in 1993 with a modest program of 12 events dreamt up by Peter Clemenger. Twenty three years later, the Festival has grown to host over 200 events througout the city. A highlight of this year’s festival will be the Melbourne Burger Invitational, in Thornbury. Seven of the cities top burger retailers will be on display and for for $33 you can sample each of the best burgers Melbourne has to offer,
The Little Sparrow Market [FREE]
When: March 6
Where: Federation Square
The Little Sparrow market is held three times a year. With over 60 design, art and gourmet food stalls, you’re sure to find some unique treasure to take home with you.
Melbourne Fashion Festival [FREE and ticketed events]
When: March 7-13
Where: Various venues around Melbourne
For those into their fashion, check out the Melbourne Fashion Festival. The festival is a true feast for the senses. You will be witness to the most stylish, week-long entertainment on offer including world-class runway shows featuring Australia’s established and emerging designers, state-of-the art production, beauty workshops, industry seminars and forums, live entertainment and much more!
Moomba Festival [FREE]
When: March 11-14
Where: The Alexandra Gardens and Birrarung Marr
Moomba is Australia’s largest free community festival and one of Melbourne’s favourite annual events. Over the long weekend the city will come alive with free music and events, including the famous Birdman Rally and Parade. Big events happening on Opening and Closing night of the festival so check out the full festival guide for more info.
Port Phillip Mussel Festival: A Seafood Street Party [FREE]
When: March 12-13
Where: South Melbourne Market
Complete with mussels, music and merrymaking, this is one seafood street party you don’t want to miss. Spend the day in the sun with friends and family, feasting, drinking, dancing and celebrating seafood, all to the sounds of Melbourne’s hottest jazz. Over the weekend expect a great mussel cook up from iconic Melbourne chefs, plus street peddlers, the sounds of Bourbon Street, a little bit of calypso and great local wines. Think sangria and piping hot mussel paella, wok cooked drunken mussels and craft beer, mussels cooked in Bia Ha Noi with a crisp white wine, and artisanal ice cream and fun for the kids.
National Gallery of Victoria: Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei [Students $22.50]
When: Now until April 24
Where: The NGV, St Kilda Road, Southbank
A major international exhibition featuring two of the most significant artists of the 20th and 21st centuries – Andy Warhol and Ai Weiwei – opens at the National Gallery of Victoria in December 2015 and The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh in June 2016. Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei, developed by the NGV and The Warhol, with the participation of Ai Weiwei, will explore the significant influence of these two exemplary artists on modern art and contemporary life, focussing on the parallels, intersections and points of difference between the two artists’ practices. Surveying the scope of both artists careers, the NGV exhibition will present more than 300 works, including major new commissions, immersive installations and a wide representation of painting, sculpture, film, photography, publishing and social media.
Brunswick Music Festival [FREE and ticketed events]
When: March 15-20
Where: Various venus around Brunswick
The Brunswick Music Festival has been held annually in March since 1989 and is one of Victoria’s premier music festivals and a major multicultural event for Australia. Now in its 28th year, the Festival program showcases ethnic, indigenous, acoustic and traditional music, featuring local musicians, alongside interstate and international guests. The highlight of the Festival is the FREE Sydney Road Street Party. Jam-packed into a 800m stretch of Sydney Road between Union to Victoria Street, the Sydney Road Street Party is a one-of-a-kind free fiesta of the hottest local music, dance, food and market crafts that represent the Moreland municipality. With its strong migrant-culture and explosive artistic population, this community is an inner-city hotspot that perfectly illustrates the bohemian and multicultural heart of Melbourne.
Jurassic World: The Exhibition [Students $26]
When: March 19 – October 9
Where: Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton
Get closer to dinosaurs than ever before in Jurassic World: The Exhibition! Based on one of the biggest blockbusters in cinema history, the exhibition immerses audiences of all ages in scenes inspired by the beloved film. Now, the park that was only a promise comes to life…right before your eyes.
When: March 20
Where: Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford
The Shirt and Skirt Market is an institution at the Abbotsford Convent, showcasing the creations and designs of emerging Melbourne artisans. Regular stallholders include offbeat fashion label Two Threads, which specialises in upcycled, sustainable garments, textiles and home decor brand Studio Antic, jewellery and accessories, designer Jude, and many more.
