What’s open in Geelong for the Easter Long Weekend 2024
It’s the Easter long weekend and between sleep-ins and chocolate eggs, there are plenty of spots to visit if you feel like venturing out for a coffee or proper meal.
Here are the cafes, restaurants and bars staying open in Geelong over the four-day weekend, from Friday, March 29 to Monday, April 1, or for some portion of it.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
Please note, this list is not exhaustive. There are plenty more businesses that are most likely opening their doors for the long weekend, so if there’s somewhere you’re craving be sure to check their website or socials directly.
Sweet Adeline Cafe
Whether you’re keen to hit the walking track or just stock up on some sweets, Sweet Adeline Cafe is the pop-up you need to swing by. They are also hosting an Easter Toy Hunt which is sure to be a hit with the kids.
They’ll be open all weekend from 8am-2pm.
Where: 1/560 Latrobe Blvd, Newtown
63 Degrees, Geelong West
Pakington Street is on to another winner in the mint green façade that is 63 Degrees. With an ever-changing seasonal menu 63 Degrees rotates a huge range of brunch options sure to keep brunch aficionados on their toes.
The team at 63 will be slinging the goods all long weekend from 9am until 2pm.
Where: 140 Pakington Street, Geelong West
Pickers Union
Serving delicious food every day, The Pickers Union are a favourite amongst the crew at Forte, and they’ve got a decent brekky and lunch menu sure to get the taste buds dancing feverishly!
They’ll be open 10am-3pm Saturday, Sunday and Easter Monday.
Where: 3 Mackey Street, Geelong.
The Grove Coffee Co
Renowned for its great quality coffee, simple but quality-driven food, and an ethos of friendly, light-hearted service driven by a want to please, this little gem is also open over Easter. Open 6:30-12:30 every day.
Where: 2/85 The Terrace, Ocean Grove
Paddington
When talking about the great service at a cafe people often mention how great it is when the staff knows them by name. But how often do you find a place where the staff knows the names of the canine regulars as well? Offering Clark St Coffee (a brand renowned for its sustainable ethos and emphasis on environmentally-friendly packaging), Paddington Café is the go-to for when you need a buzz that both does the job and is rich in delicious flavours.
Paddington will be open for takeaway only on Friday and Saturday from 8am.
Where: 134B High St, Belmont
No. 10 James Street
This quirky cafe is famed for it’s great coffee, stunning bread baked onsite, exceptional service and quality atmosphere. Formerly James Street Bakery, No. 10 James Street will be open 8am-3pm on Easter Saturday only.
Where: 10 James Street, Geelong.
Winters Cafe
Located at the river end of Pako, Winters has become a mainstay in the Geelong brekky scene. Their menu comes equipped with a local, seasonal focus meaning you’re always going to get the best locally sourced ingredients Geelong has to offer.
They’ll be open Easter Monday from 9am-2pm.
Where: 330 Pakington St, Newtown.
That Place Patisserie
If you’re looking to teleport yourself to the streets of Paris on this public holiday, there’s no better place to start than at That Place Patisserie in Belmont. Head here to pick up those last-minute buns.
They’ll be open Good Friday only from 7-11am and for order collection Saturday from 8am – 11am
Where: 110b Mt Pleasant Rd, Belmont
9 Grams, Torquay, Newtown, Mount Duneed and Geelong
Bless those that know the public holidays should not be devoid of caffeine. If you’re looking for a brew, these guys are your saving grace and will be slinging takeaways coffees and sweets. We’ll be asking for a double shot…
Open 7am to 4pm on the public holiday across all venues so plenty of time for coffee and brunch!
Where: 1/343 Pakington Street, Newtown; 101 Unity Drive, Mount Duneed; 1 Malop Street, Geelong; and 6 Gilbert Street, Torquay.
Blank Space
Providing flavoursome and fresh dishes and exceptional Constant Coffee, supporting local suppliers, and featuring many sweet, savoury, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, it’ll be hard not to find multiple things that tickle your fancy.
They’ll be opening the doors on Easter Saturday and Sunday from 8am-2pm.
Where: 4/343 Pakington Street, Newtown.
Mortadeli
In the heart of Torquay is the new home to Mortadeli, a modern twist on a retro deli with a whole lot of soul, looking to keep traditions alive, in a modern and simple way.
They’ll be open Fri and Sat 8am-5pm, and Sun and Mon 8am-3pm with the grocer section open 10am-5pm daily.
Where: Shop 8/4-6 Gilbert Street, Torquay
King of the Castle
KOTC never fails to hit the cravings when it comes to caffeine and all things delicious, especially with their Kings Breakfast, brioche French Toast, banoffee waffles and avocado toast.
Luckily for those spending the long weekend in Geelong, KOTC will be open from 7:30am-2pm every day.
Where: 24 Pakington Street, Geelong
Local Geelong
Local Geelong is a well-loved cafe slinging coffee, cake, brunch and pastries all day. With treats seven days a week and some of the smoothest coffee around town, we’re stoked that the team have decided to stay open all long weekend! Slinging takeaway goods for all, you’ll be able to load up with a range of pastries, buns, bread and snacks.
Open from 7:30am-12pm on Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon.
Where: 175 McKillop St, Geelong
Untitled, Armstrong Creek & Geelong
They might be known for their famous bagels (seriously, so good), but the overarching reason we race down there on the daily is for their piping hot cups of coffee, made with their own specialty blend ‘Smooth Blend’, courtesy of Three Little Beans roastery, located right here in Geelong.
Geelong venue will be open Friday and Saturday 8am-2pm, and Armstrong Creek will be open Saturday and Monday 8am-3pm
Where: Shop T14: 500-540 Torquay Road, Armstrong Creek & 197 Yarra Street, Geelong.
Warralily Cockatoo
If you ever find yourself asking what’s better than a morning sleep in, the answer is a day spent with an excellent coffee in one hand and a spoonful of something delicious in the other – and both can be done at Warralily Cockatoo on the public holiday.
They’ll be open all weekend.
Where: Warralily Village Shop 19, 3/33 Central Bvd, Armstrong Creek
Surfside Café
If you feel like hitting the beach or exploring OG, these guys (winners of the best coffee btw) will be open Saturday and Easter Monday 8am-3pm
Where: 65/70 Shell Rd, Ocean Grove
Wild Goat Coffee Co
Whether it’s a flat white, cappuccino, long black, a latte on ice or even a mocha choc you’re after, Wild Goat’s friendly but speedy baristas have you sorted, churning out high quality coffees at an impressive rate. Drive on through and grab a coffee to go. Open 7:30am-1pm all weekend.
Where: 42 Fellmongers Rd, Breakwater
Sodi
Sodi on Pakington Street is the dog friendly café that serves up brunch options for humans and their four-legged friends. They’ll be open from 7am-1pm on Good Friday and Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday from 7am-12pm, and Easter Monday from 8am-2pm..
Where: 149 Pakington St, Geelong West
Darling West
Darling West is the adorable and wholesome new look from the Three Little Figs team! Family vibes, great food and epic coffee. They’re open Friday 7am-3pm. Saturday 8am-3pm.
Where: 240 Pakington St, Geelong West
Box Office
Box Office might just be the most exciting shipping container in Geelong, serving up a whole host of café classics and international-themed dishes.
Serving coffee from Axil Coffee Roasters, these guys are open for all your coffee and food needs from 6:30am, plus are open nights Friday and Saturday this week, as well as 6.30am – 4pm Easter Monday.
Where: 77 Preston St, Geelong West
The Salty Dog Café
A café located right on the beach, this one is perfect for you and your pup’s morning coffee. There’s nothing like soaking up the view over Fisherman’s beach with a selection of breakfasts, toasties, beverages and cakes. You’ll find a tonne of water bowls scattered around the place as well as puppaccinos and plenty of space to stretch their little legs. Salty dogs are always welcome.
Bring your doggo by from 6am to pick up your goods and then mosey on down to the beach to spend your Easter long weekend.
Where: 50 The Esplanade, Torquay
Bean Squeeze
These coffee drive-throughs are spotted all over Geelong and they’ve good for much more than just speedy coffees. If you’ve got a furry pal with you, you’ll get some smacko treats with your drink. Perfect for when you’re on the run!
For the Easter long weekend, they’ll be open from across various times between 5:30am – 5:30pm at various locations.
Where: various locations around town
Mercy Cafe
Operating out of a beautifully renovated shipping container, Mercy serves up some damn fine cups of Mikro Coffee Roasters coffee with a food menu that features a bevvy of sandwiches and baguettes all made on-site.
Mercy will be open on the public holidays from 7-1 for takeaway only on Fri and Mon, and from 7-2 Sat and Sun.
Where: 401 Eastern Park Circuit, Geelong
Iberia Geelong
Your favourite Geelong local cafe serving up coffee, food & liquor. Locally roasted coffee, a fresh, delicious and considered menu. Iberia will be open all weekend from 8am-2pm
Where: 137 Shannon Ave, Manifold Heights.
Skinny Dippers Café
Renowned for their Gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo and vegan/vegetarian whole foods. Open Easter Monday 8-2 at Newtown and 8-2 every day at East Geelong.
Where: 2 Lambert Ave, Newtown & 261 Myers St, East Geelong.
Kyosk Cafe
Kyosk Café is in Ocean Grove and is dedicated to serving up delicious food, booze and coffee from 7am all Easter long weekend.
Where: 91 The Parade, Ocean Grove
Maple Bakery
Canadian Inspired Bakery in the heart of Torquay. Serving coffee supplied by Surf Coast Coffee Roasters with modern or traditional treats. Open from 8am to 2pm every day over the long weekend.
Where: 40/10 Cylinders Drive, Torquay
Van Loons Café
Van Loons Café serves delicious house-made meals and cakes and they’ll be open from 9am all Easter long weekend.
Where: 405 Grubb Rd, Wallington
Woodhouse Café
Tucked away on the busy Belmont High Street strip, get your caffeine hit from 8am until 2pm on Saturday and Easter Monday.
Where: 170A High St, Belmont
Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie
There’s no denying this venue’s pull. Chocolate and ice cream, is there anything else you need in life? Well yes, they do coffee too. Open from 9am-5pm every single day over Easter – and there’s a whole lot of fun Easter treats!!
Where:1200, Great Ocean Road, Bellbrae.
Pavilion
Pavilion Geelong is a modern cafe along the shore of Eastern Beach, serving breakfast, lunch, coffee, and takeaway sweet and savoury treats. Open from 6:30am-4pm every day over the Easter long weekend if you’re after a scenic caffeine hit.
Where: 95 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong
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Restaurants
Frankie Geelong
Emanating a rich and welcoming ambience suited to smart casual dining, Frankie is elevated further by the exceptional menu on offer. Spanning all parts of Asia, the result is a stunning feast that will transport your tastebuds to cloud nine, welcoming the summer season in the very best way. Frankie will be open Friday 5-late, Saturday 12-late, and Easter Monday 5pm-late.
Where: 9-11 Malop Street, Geelong
Baah Lah
Stamped with innovation and packed full of personality, Baah Lah! places seasonal and locally sourced produce at centre stage, delivering a polished, evolving menu that reflects the best of the region and surroundings. They are open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday 5:30pm to late. A 15% public holiday surcharge applies.
Where: 1/100 Pakington Street, Geelong West
1915 Geelong
Set in the former Federal Woollen Mills, one of the city’s most iconic and historic buildings, and beneath the historic North Geelong smokestack, is 1915, a whimsical restaurant laced with old-world charm. They’re closed Good Friday and Easter Monday but open for the rest of the Easter long weekend.
Where: BH2 / 33 Mackey Street, North Geelong
Emerge
For an intimate occasion, Emerge Dining is a favourite within the region specialising in premium steak. They’re closed Good Friday, but open Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Where: 112 Ryrie Street, Geelong
La Cachette
Translating to ‘the hideaway’ in French, La Cachette is a modern, intimate and quiet 25-seat bistro, tucked away in Steampacket Place on the lush Geelong Waterfront. They’ll be open Good Friday and Easter Saturday.
Where: Steampacket Place, Geelong Waterfront
Fisherman’s Pier
Sitting pretty along Geelong waterfront and offering fresh, hand-picked seafood on the dining menu, you’re guaranteed to have a unique sea-filled treat at Fisherman’s Pier.
They’re open all Easter long weekend from 11:30pm-2:30pm for lunch and 5:30pm-9:30pm for dinner.
Where: 1a Yarra Street, Geelong
El Santo
With a range of Mexican dishes, including tasty tacos, quesadillas, burritos and even chimichangas, it’s always a good idea to head to El Santo for a festive dining experience like no other. Sombreros optional.
Open Friday and Saturday for Easter.
Where: 115 Ryrie Street, Geelong
BeachHouse Barwon Heads
Once the old Fire Station, BeachHouse Barwon Heads showcases some of the Bellarine Peninsula’s finest produce, wine, cider and beer.
The BeachHouse will be open all long weekend.
Where: 48 Hitchcock Ave, Barwon Heads
Recess Bar
Recess is Central Geelong’s only Gluten-Free Restaurant offering you a space to run around, have a snack, play with friends and make new ones! For Easter, they’re open Good Friday with Drag Shows, Easter Saturday with bottomless lunch and Saucy Saturday drag show and Easter Sunday for bottomless dinner. Plus there is no added public holiday surcharge – win!
Where: 247 Moorabool Street, Geelong
Tomodachi Izakaya & Bar 2.0
Experience Japanese-inspired brunch, casual lunches and bowls of tenderly-cooked ramen on Geelong’s stunning waterfront. They’ll be open from 8.15am all Easter long weekend and 9am Easter Monday.
Where: 6/8 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong
Justin Lane, Geelong
A year ago now Burleigh’s much-loved pizzeria Justin Lane has made the trip down South, bringing everything there is to love about the beach-facing Italian hotspot to the Geelong waterfront, including masterfully-crafted pasta made fresh in-house, gourmet sourdough-base pizzas, and salads perfect for sharing.
They’re open 12pm to late from Good Friday through to Easter Monday.
Where: 57-59 Brougham St, Geelong
Caledonia Shores
Caledonia Shores is a relatively new spot that captures the waterfront’s unique energy and inimitable soul, giving diners a cosily lit front-row seat to the breathtaking views of Geelong’s Eastern Beach.
It’s open all Easter long weekend.
Where: 95 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong
Bob Sugar
With a focus on super-fresh ingredients and authentic techniques, pretty much everything you’ll find within the four walls of Bob Sugar is mouth-wateringly delicious. They’re open all Easter long weekend except Easter Monday.
Where: 17 The Esplanade, Torquay
Novotel
Take your love out to dine on the waterfront with gorgeous bay views while you enjoy an epic spread at Geelong’s Novotel. Open all weekend with various special events to book.
Where: 10-14 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong
Toki Modern Japanese
From the moment you slide your way up the stairs at the newly developed site at 4-6 Gilbert Street and into the up-scale restaurant, you’re left breathless by the hushed, calming and elegant atmosphere. Open Friday and Saturday.
Where: 4-6 Gilbert Street, Torquay
Meet Me At Mary’s
Meet Me At Mary’s takes form as part dining room, part lounge, part wine bar, where the owners lean into their deep-seated love of modern Australian fare with worldly twists and drinks to match. Open Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 66 Pakington Street, Geelong.
Che Vuoi
Staying true to their roots, the guys at Barwon Head’s rustic Italian restaurant Che Vuoi are using authentic techniques and recipes from their Nonna, hoping to share the love they feel in food. Their modus operandi? Come as a guest, leave as a friend. So Italian!
For Easter, they’re open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 47 Hitchcock Avenue, Barwon Heads
Pistol Pete’s Food N Blues
Pistol Pete’s Food n Blues is a Southern American, Louisiana and Blues music restaurant run by Geelong chef and Blues lover, Pete Raimondo. They’re open Good Friday and Easter Saturday from 12pm.
Where: 93 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Black Sheep Geelong
Gin Bar & Restaurant, Black Sheep Geelong is the home of Geeelong’s Chamber of Gin featuring the best 5 local distilleries. For Easter, they’re open Friday 5pm-late, Saturday 5pm-late, Sunday 11:30am-3pm and Monday 5pm-late.
Where: Ground Level, 66 Brougham St, Geelong
TonTon
Pushing the boundaries of what we understand the cafe experience to be, TonTon is one of the newest venues to join the Geelong hospitality scene, gifting locals and tourists alike another bright new dining spot. They’re open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Monday 8am-2pm, closed Sunday.
Where: 9/65 Barrabool Rd, Highton Village
Nova Balinese Kitchen
A taste of Bali in Newtown, Geelong. This gem is open all long weekend.
Where: Shop 7/321 Pakington St, Newtown
Bird Rock
Bird Rock is a restaurant and bar offering a southeast asian style menu, cocktails, local beers and indoor and outdoor dining.
With live music all weekend, they’re open Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday.
Where: 2 Princes Terrace, Torquay
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Pubs and Bars
Edge Geelong, Geelong
With a gorgeous north-facing bar, New York loft styling and a trendy outside deck area; not only does Edge give patrons a world-class view of the beautiful Corio Bay, but from the moment you arrive, you feel like you’ve entered a relaxed paradise.
Open everyday ’til late from Easter Thursday to Easter Monday, they’re celebrating with ‘Choc-tail House’ $16 Chocolate Cocktail Specials; 2 for 1 Friday Knock Off Drinks, and live Music lined up everyday/night from local Acoustic & DJ legends.
Where: 6/8 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong
Little Creatures
A true brewery village experience, with a bustling Canteen, mysterious White Rabbit Barrel Hall and the colourful Mystery Lane.
Little Creatures will be open all long weekend including Good Friday and Easter Monday; Brewery Tours will commence from Easter weekend; with kids activities across the weekend with an appearance from the Easter Bunny on Sunday.
Where: 221 Swanston St, Geelong
Blackmans Brewery
Blackman’s Brewery is an independent and family-owned business based on the Surf Coast of Victoria with venues in Torquay, Ocean Grove and Geelong. They’re open all weekend.
Where: Various locations
Torquay Hotel
The Torquay Hotel is an iconic pub situated in the heart of the Surf Coast and as always, they’ve got a packed weekend for the entire Easter weekend.
Good Friday sees the they are having a party, while Easter Saturday and Sunday will host DJs all night long. As for the restaurant/pub, it’s open all weekend long.
Where: 36 Bell Street, Torquay
The Sporting Globe
With 50 plus flat screens, an epic menu and a number of drink specials, The Sporto is always a safe option when you’re craving beer, pub classics and bar snacks to go with your Easter long weekend footy viewing. They’ll be open every single day.
Where: 175-177 Ryrie Street, Geelong
Sailor’s Rest
This multi-level gem offers dinner, drinks and a view. Located on Geelong’s waterfront, Sailors Rest shakes it up from an all day brunch spot to a certified good time as the sun goes down thanks to their incredible rooftop bar. They’re closed Friday but open Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 3 Moorabool Street, Geelong
The 18th Amendment Bar
Take a step up the Little Malop Street stairway and back in time to experience class and concoction innovation. With groundbreaking cocktail creations and Instagrammable designs, The 18th Amendment Bar is more than a drink with friends.
For Easter, they’re open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 82A Little Malop Street, Geelong
Wah Bar
Sharing the bao bun and delicious dumpling menu (the crispy chicken bao bun is to die for) of its sister company, Wah Bah takes up the vibrancy and boldness of the cocktail menu and adds a dancefloor to the mix. They’re open Saturday and Sunday this weekend 12pm to late.
Where: Cunningham Pier, 10 Western Beach, Geelong
There There
If you love killer retro beats, if you love cocktails and if you love to boogie down, There, There is your place. They’re open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 8 Malop Street, Geelong
Medusa
Medusa is one of Geelong’s best-kept secrets, offering a tantalising blend of drink specials, live music, DJs spinning vinyl and movie nights. Medusa will be open Friday from 2pm-late before closing up for the rest of the long weekend.
Where: 2 Rock O’Cashel Lane, Geelong.
Malt Shovel Tap House
Malt Shovel Tap House is a home for craft beer lovers. Split into multiple dining areas, including an art deco front room, a beer garden, a more intimate booth setting and a beer hall reminiscent area, Malt Shovel Tap House caters for everyone with their well rounded offering. Open every day!
Where: Corner Malop St & Bellerine Street, Geelong
Geelong Hotel
With a much needed facelift, Geelong Hotel (better known to locals as GH), is a Friday and Saturday night go to for a classic pub meal, standout cocktails, beats galore and the occasional live music act in their dedicated upstairs bandroom.
They’ll be closed Good Friday but open Saturday and Sunday, with a special Easter Sunday event.
Address: 69 Yarra St, Geelong
The Elephant and Castle Hotel
It’s hard not to love this place, with its quirky, yet classic interior, the endless roster of live entertainment, the welcoming patrons and the generous pub feeds. They’ll be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 158 McKillop Street, Geelong
St Lords
Situated on the corner of Latrobe Terrace and West Fyans Street in Newtown, just a stone’s throw away from Kardinia Park, St Lords (previously Lord of the Isles Tavern) has been a favourite amongst locals for the past 40 years.
Closed Good Friday but open every other day.
Where: 3 West Fyans Street, Newtown
Manhattan Bar
Manhattan Bar provides all the vibes of a New York bar in the centre of Geelong – cheap drinks, an unpretentious atmosphere, and a unique experience with equally unique individuals.
They’ll be open Good Friday 5-1 and Saturday 5-1.
Where: 9 James St, Geelong
Beavs Bar
This charming venue behind the big red door has been a favourite hangout for years now and has become the go-to place to listen to some acoustic original singer-songwriters, chill out on the lounge having a drink with your mates or partake in a cheeky few rounds of karaoke on a Wednesday night.
For the Easter long weekend, Beavs is open 4-1 Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 77 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Piano Bar
As the name suggests, Piano Bar offers sing-along entertainment accompanied by the ivory keys, and, dependent on the night, by fabulous drag queens.
They’ll be open Friday and Saturday with requests by Shandelle and Dave.
Where: 90 – 92 Little Malop Street, Geelong
The Barwon Club Hotel
They have long been the go-to destination for the traditional pub experience in Geelong since it was first opened in the early ’90s, and it doesn’t seem like things are slowing down.
They’ll be open Friday and Saturday with gigs but closed Sunday and Monday.
Where: 509 Moorabool St, South Geelong
Belmont Hotel
A favourite pick as a function venue, Belmont Hotel has embraced their art-deco interior with complimentary classic pub meal meets fining dining selection and their wide cocktail range.
The Belmont is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday with DJs and live music and drink specials.
Where: 77 High Street, Belmont
The Deck
Since its killer makeover a couple of years ago, The Deck on Gheringhap Street has quickly become a favourite amongst locals looking for a cold beer, quality meal and decent tunes to see them through the week. Open all weekend.
Where: 2-4 Gheringhap Street, Geelong
The Inn Hotel
A quality spot for a Friday and Saturday night shuffle and a Sunday session all the same, The Inn has quality food from their seasonal menu, quality drinks (espresso martinis are a go-to!) and quality tunes.
They’re closed Friday but open Saturday from 12pm and on Sunday with a Block Party featuring Sam Alfred.
Where: 58 Corio Street, Geelong
The Cremorne Hotel
With great classic pub meals, cold frothies flowing, a great atmosphere and TAB and Keno facilities, The Cremorne is a local go-to spot.
Open Friday 12-8
Saturday 11:30-late
Sunday 12-late
Monday 12-9
Where: 336 Pakington Street, Newtown
Fyansford Hotel
This absolute gem is a must-visit hotel complete with a bar with a kids’ playroom and a deck, ideal for pub meals and weekly specials like all-day steaks.
For Easter, they’re open Friday 12-2am, Saturday 9am-2am, Sunday 10am-midnight, and Monday 9am-2am.
Where: 67 Hyland St, Fyansford
Leopold Sportsman’s Club
Leopold Sportsman Club features a relaxing lounge bar and bistro area overlooking two well-maintained greens available for use. For Easter, it’s open all weekend.
Where: 135 Kensington Rd, Leopold
Brewicolo
BrewiColo Brewing Co. is a family run independent craft brewery located on one of the most picturesque coastlines in Victoria, Ocean Grove. For Easter, they’re open Good Friday 2pm-7pm, Saturday 12pm-late, Sunday 1pm-late and Monday 2pm-7pm.
Where: 32 Marine Parade, Ocean Grove
Ceres Distilling Co
A new spot to check out, Ceres Distilling Co. is a Craft Vodka and Gin Distillery in Geelong. For Easter, they’ll be open Saturday 12pm-10pm and Sunday 12pm-8pm.
Where: 36/8 Lewalan St, Grovedale
Batesford Hotel
A family-owned venue, established in the 1800s, this charming hotel is located within the landscape of the beautiful Moorabool Valley. For Easter, they’re open Good Friday from 11:30am-close.
Where: 700 Ballarat Rd, Batesford
The Pierce Brothers: Masters of Musical Evolution Embrace the Grandeur with new album
The Pierce Brothers have carved a reputation for themselves as purveyors of electrifying live performances brimming with vigour, passion, and flair, establishing themselves as a hallmark of the Melbourne music scene. From their humble beginnings as Bourke Street buskers in 2011, Jack and Pat Pierce have honed their captivating stage presence and cultivated a connection with audiences that transcends boundaries.
The Pierce Brothers Tour
- THU 11 APR – Theatre Royal | Castlemaine
- FRI 12 APR – Volta | Ballarat
- SAT 11 MAY – Torquay Hotel | Torquay
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Unlike many street performers, the Pierce Brothers have seamlessly translated the raw, unfiltered energy of busking onto larger stages, captivating audiences far beyond their Melbourne origins. “From my busking days to now, there have been heaps of incremental changes that have turned us into the band that we are today,” Jack Pierce explains. “We’ve always been a band that evolves with the songs we write, and now we have WAY too many instruments on stage.”
“We used to play with two guitars. Then we dropped one while I picked up the Jam djembe, then over the years added the floor tom, mandolin, and electric guitar. “We’ve always been a band that evolves with the songs we write, and now we have WAY too many instruments on stage. Some of the best songs we’ve ever written came from jamming first. I think that’s where the magic lies.”
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Having mastered the art of exploration, experimentation, and livewire performances, their latest musical endeavour, Everything Is Bigger Than Me, marks a significant milestone in their artistic journey.
This album, their third studio venture, not only underscores the Melbourne-based twins’ growth as musicians and storytellers but also marks a significant leap in their creative journey. Having taken the reins of production for the first time, alongside Phil Threlfall (Illy, Bliss n Eso, Owl Eyes), Jack and Pat Pierce navigate new waters, steering their sound into uncharted territories while weaving narratives of love, loss, and the human experience.
“We did our best to lean more into our indie-folk inspirations, and always tried to harken back to the way that we perform live,” Jack Pierce explains. “It was also recorded at my home studio, which was also a first for us! Having said that, this gave us a lot of freedom to explore the songs as much as we could!”
“We did more pre-production than we usually do,” Jack adds, “and in that exploration of each song, we found new ideas that we would never have had the time to explore if we’d have just rehearsed them live, and then just gone guns blazing into a studio.” This meticulous approach to the recording process allowed them to delve deeper into each song, resulting in a richer and more layered sound and more ambitious tracks.
From infectious folk toe-tappers like ‘Bottle’ to haunting tracks like ‘Wilder’, which features Philadelphia-based twins LULLANAS, the Pierce Brothers are unafraid to explore and expand their sonic palette while staying true to the earnest lyricism and harmonious vocals that fans have come to adore. Rustic charm meets mass singalong potential in ‘Left You On Read’, while tracks like ‘Blood’ and ‘White Dress’ delve into themes of family, love, and introspection.
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With its soaring chorus and introspective lyrics, ‘Hollow’ stands out as a focus track, capturing the essence of their storytelling prowess. As Jack reflects on the song, “This was probably the saddest track of the record. We love to blend both melancholy and upbeat energy in our songs. It’s an outlier [in terms of theme],” he explains, “but we just really enjoyed the storytelling and the picture that painted, and we took inspiration from Paul Kelly in that way.”
Their evolution as artists, both personally and musically, since their debut EP The Night Tree, is palpable in this album. As Jack reminisces, “Listening back to The Night Tree, it’s hard to believe it’s already 10 years old.
“I’m really proud of most of the songs on that and would love to revisit some of the songs that I don’t think we gave enough time to. This new album represents us backing ourselves a little bit more, with lessons that we’ve learned from the incredible people we’ve worked with over the years, both writing and producing music.”
Despite the challenges they faced on their hugely successful European headline tour, including a hospital visit, lost voices, cancelled shows, a stolen credit card and a studio disaster back home, the Pierce Brothers remain resilient and determined to share their music with audiences around the world.
Having kicked off their extensive Australian tour at the esteemed Bluesfest, they look forward to bringing their new album to life on stage. “This will be our most extensive tour since 2019,” Jack says. “The good thing about this year’s tour is that for the most part it’s weekend on/weekend off. This was so I didn’t miss too many weekends with my young kids, but it certainly pushed the dates out a long way, because we really wanted to do that big regional run like we used to!”
As anticipation hangs heavy in the air for locals awaiting their performances in Castlemaine, Ballarat, and Torquay, the Pierce Brothers continue to leave an indelible mark on the indie-folk landscape. Everything Is Bigger Than Me is not just an album; it’s a testament to the duo’s remarkable journey, a journey that unfolds with each chord, each lyric, and each heartfelt performance.
Tickets to their upcoming tour are available for purchase now here.
Eora/Sydney based Jet City Sports Club announce second EP, Every Single Dream
Jet City Sports Club has added five new songs to their catalogue, today dropping their second EP, Every Single Single. With five slices of dreamy indie-pop perfection, the EP is a capsule of growth for the three-piece out of Sydney.
Including the previously unreleased ‘Chamomile’ along with singles ‘My Everything’, ‘Drug Store’, ‘Green Thumb’ and most recent ‘Sunny Morning’ the EP drops ahead of their national 10-date tour supporting Dear Seattle.
Jet City Sports Club Tour Dates
- Friday 10 May, Volta Ballarat
- Saturday 11 May, The Wool Exchange Geelong
With two back to back shows on the Victorian front, playing Ballarat’s music hub Volta on Friday 11 May, and Geelong’s own The Wool Exchange on Saturday 11 May, the trio are a must see this year.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
They have received rave reviews from their live shows supporting the likes of he VANNS, STUMPS, Connie Constance (UK), Genghar (UK), Ruby Fields, The Grogans and Trophy Eyes, and sweeping through festivals such as SXSW Sydney, Lost Paradise, Mountain Goat Valley Crawl and Icebreaker Festival.
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The tracks from Every Single Dream will flow seamlessly into their set. Armed with slick production from RAAVE, TAPES and The Buoy producer, Fletcher Matthews, Every Single Dream is a strong flex of the bands effortless, summery sound. On the lyrical side, the EP unlocks the shared memories and opportunities that Jet City Sports Club have collected, storing them tightly in a sonic photo album.
Of the new EP the band says, “The new EP is a collection of songs that are extensions of us, and the experiences being in this band has created. We named it Every Single Dream as it’s a bit ambiguous, and people can attach their meaning to it when they’ve heard the songs and made their own relationship with the EP. It also has a sort of second meaning where we see this band as a vehicle to accomplish every single one of our dreams.”
With Triple J and Unearthed behind them, Jet City Sports Club is well on their way to the top of the Australian industry ladder.
Tickets to see them in their live shows across May can be found below. Don’t sleep on Every Single Dream either!
Tickets to Jet City Sports Club at Volta Ballarat can be purchased here and tickets to The Wool Exchange Geelong can be purchased here.
Stars & Bars Festival Returns to Heathcote for the Ultimate Countrified Adventure
The legendary Stars & Bars Festival is making its grand return to Heathcote this month, this time expanding into a two-day musical spectacle like no other. Taking place on Friday, 26 April and Saturday, 27 April, this hybrid music festival combines the allure of a magical mystery bus tour and the infectious nature of country music with the delights of a winery and brewery exploration.
Now in its third year, Stars & Bars Festival Heathcote, created by industry veteran Lincon Boyd, is all about celebrating the best of music, wine, beer, spirits, food, and hospitality that the Heathcote region has to offer in the most experimental and adventurous way possible.
Kicking off on Friday, 26 April, the festivities commence with a special Family Dinner at The Union Hotel Heathcote, featuring a delightful blend of cuisine and entertainment in true Stars & Bars style.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
On Saturday, festival-goers are invited to embark on The Heathcote Express, an epic multi-locale magical mystery musical bus tour that culminates in the renowned Evening Session at Palling Bros Brewery. The tour, starting at 10:30 am, promises a scenic journey through Heathcote’s picturesque landscapes, including stops at Red Edge Winery for morning tea and wine tasting, historic Tooborac Hotel & Brewery for lunch, and Munari Wine at Lady’s Pass for a guided wine tasting and afternoon tea.
From engaging performances by incredibly talented artists to immersive experiences at unique locales, this festival promises an unforgettable adventure.
The Locales
At the heart of this whole experience is the festival locales. Carefully selected for their immersive qualities, the locales offer more than just venues for musical performances. They provide an enchanting backdrop with indoor/outdoor stages against stunning vistas, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Among the notable locales hosting this year’s festival is The Union Hotel Heathcote, a historic establishment renowned for its traditional charm, hearty meals and excellent selection of local wine and beer. This is where the festival kicks off with a Friday Night Family Dinner.
Red Edge Winery, with its sweeping vistas, offers the perfect setting for morning tea, wine tasting and a taste of alt-country vibes during the festival.
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Meanwhile, the Tooborac Hotel & Brewery, steeped in history since 1857, promises a family-friendly atmosphere and modern craft beer delights. With an on-site brewery, this charming spot is also Victoria’s oldest National Trust-listed country pub. Munari Wines, a celebrated family-owned vineyard, invites visitors to experience the passion and precision behind their exceptional wines with an expertly guided wine tasting flight.
And finally, a favourite on this whistle-stop tour, Palling Bros Brewery delivers the perfect backdrop for the climatic Evening Session. As the original brewer in Heathcote, this gem serves as the ultimate hub for handcrafted artisan beer, fine dining, and live music in the vibrant indoor-outdoor setting of the beer garden.
The Artists
As you taste and explore the Heathcote region with this countrified music bus tour, you’ll get to enjoy live performances from a handpicked selection of mavericks, maestros, and misfits guaranteed to captivate with their diverse sounds.
The Seven Ups
Prepare for a mesmerising musical journey with Melbourne’s very own The Seven Ups. This seven-piece powerhouse from the vibrant northern suburbs infuses funk, psychedelic rock, and cinematic soul into their electrifying performances. Fresh off the release of their masterful album A Free Blowing Wind in 2023, The Seven Ups promise to sweep you off your feet with their captivating blend of groovy rhythms and blistering solos. Having graced stages like the Port Fairy Folk Festival, they’re set to ignite the dancefloor at Palling Bros Brewery.
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Nathan Seeckts
Dynamic local singer-songwriter Nathan Seeckts seamlessly blends Americana, folk, country, and blues into his compelling music. Drawing inspiration from legends like Bruce Springsteen and Lucero, Seeckts crafts songs that resonate authentically with his audiences. With critically acclaimed albums under his belt, Seeckts’ performance, accompanied by bandmate Sean McDonnell on guitar duties, promises to be an unforgettable journey from Melbourne to Memphis.
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Riley Catherall
Australian artist Riley Catherall captivates audiences with his heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth in the Americana and alt-country music scenes. His debut album When I Go garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his ability to connect deeply with themes of love and loss. With a new release imminent, Catherall’s performance, backed by a full band, offers a preview of things to come from this rising star.
The Drunken Poachers
The Drunken Poachers have entertained audiences for over a decade with their rambunctious drinking songs and foot-stomping singalongs. Known for traversing the spectrum of Bluegrass and country music, they promise a special trio show for Stars and Bars, with a few surprises up their sleeve.
Luke Sinclair
Luke Sinclair, of Raised By Eagles fame, presents his solo work ablaze with country soul, pop, and rock n’ roll. With his debut solo release ‘Heavy Dreams’, Sinclair showcases his evocative lyrics and universal songwriting that has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Grim Fawkner
Grim Fawkner, the rambling man of acoustic-driven storytelling, brings tales and musings from his global travels to the stage. From soft ballads to upbeat roots/country/blues, Fawkner’s performances connect with audiences of all sizes, making him a beloved figure in the folk scene.
Jungle Jim Smith
Prepare for an electrifying experience with Jungle Jim Smith, the one-man-electric-boogie-band. Armed with a foot-powered drum set and guitars, Jungle Jim delivers a dynamic mix of blues and garage grooves that guarantee an irresistible foot-tapping, head-bopping experience.
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Bill Barber
Blues virtuoso Bill Barber’s soulful voice and masterful guitar work resonate deeply with audiences. Celebrated for his electrifying live performances and profound connection with his listeners, Barber continues to push the boundaries of contemporary blues music.
Special Guest DJ Chunky Love
Geelong’s international superstar DJ Chunky Love brings Big G-Town Energy to the H-Town Long Weekender. With vintage vinyl classics and dancefloor fillers, DJ Chunky Love promises an unforgettable musical experience at both the Union Hotel Heathcote Family Dinner and the Palling Bros Brewery Evening Session.
Ticket Options
For an unforgettable musical adventure at the Stars & Bars Festival in Heathcote, choose from three ticket options:
Heathcote Express Bus Tour: Join the all-day tour on 27 April for $120 + booking fee. Experience seven acts across four locales, with guided wine tastings and entry to the Evening Session included.
The Evening Session at Palling Bros Brewery: Enjoy performances by four acts for $30 + booking fee on 27 April from 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm. Limited tickets are available online or at the door.
Friday Night Family Dinner at The Union Hotel Heathcote: Kick off the weekend on Friday 26 April for $10 + booking fee. Enjoy food, drinks, and performances by Jungle Jim Smith, Bill Barber, and DJ Chunky Love.
With the (almost) Anzac Day long weekend providing ample time to explore Heathcote at leisure, the Stars & Bars Festival offers the perfect opportunity to leave the city behind and immerse yourself in Victoria’s heartland.
So, why wait? Secure your tickets now and embark on a sonic journey like no other. As they say, buy the ticket, take the ride. Tickets are at https://www.starsandbars.com.au/
Queenscliff Music Festival Director Andrew Orvis says farewell after ten years
With Queenscliff Music Festival’s Early bird tickets for 2024 going live last week, sadly current festival director, Andrew Orvis will not be at the helm. After ten dedicated years with the festival, the born and bred Queenscliff local is stepping down.
In a statement he says,
“I’ve loved my time at the Queenscliff Music Festival, and whilst I’m sad that it’s coming to an end, I’m excited about new adventures and opportunities in the future. It’s such a wonderful place, amazing people, a brilliant event, and has been an absolute honour to work on the Festival over so many years. It’s now time for someone else to take charge and lead Queenscliff Music Festival for many more years of successful Festivals.”
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Spearheading the multi-award winning Bellarine festival across a decade, Orvis, who started working at the festival 16 years ago, has overseen ten successful sold-out iterations of the annual three-day November festival, welcoming in over 1000 artists and 100,000 punters throughout his time.
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Orvis’s time with the QMF has also seen the proud dad introduce the ‘Daddys Festible’ which saw performances from Bluey, Teeny Tiny Stevie’s and ABC icons the Banana’s in Pyjamas. During Covid years, Orvis successful navigated the festival-front, inspiring him to introduce summer venue The Pelican Bar, as well as taking over the Queenscliff Town Hall for monthly concerts. His time with the festival has not only seen major growth, but spawned countless memories.
Now the search is on for the new captain of the QMF ship. The Queenscliff Music Festival Inc Board are calling for industry operatives interested in tackling the role to submit their Expressions of Interest. Submissions are open now via www.qmf.net.au
Whilst the search gets underway, punters are encouraged to jump onto the 2024 festival. The subscriber ticket allocation is exhausted by Early Bird tickets are on sale now.
Twenty One Pilots announce massive global headline tour including three dates in Australia
Ahead of their forthcoming album, Clancy, Columbus, Ohio duo Twenty One Pilots announce their biggest headline tour to date. Titled The Clancy World Tour, Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun will head through North America with dates following in New Zealand, Australia, Europe and United Kingdom.
Twenty One Pilots The Clancy World Tour AU/NZ Dates
- Spark Arena, Auckland, Sunday 17 November
- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Tuesday 19 November
- Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Thursday 21 November
- Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, Sunday 24 November
Twenty One Pilots will commence their Australia & New Zealand tour on Sunday November 17 at Auckland’s Spark Arena, followed by Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday November 19, Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Thursday November 21 and concluding at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday November 24.
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The announcement is accompanied by single ‘Next Semester’, from the incoming Clancy, set to be released Friday 17 May via Fueled By Ramen. Last month they hit fans with lead single ‘Overcompensate’ which immediately rocketed up the Alternative charts, sitting at number 5. It adds to their already impressive 33 billion streams worldwide with this tour further adding to their already over 3 million tickets sold across global headline tours.
Tickets for all shows go on sale on Friday 5 April at 10am (local time).
My Live Nation members can secure tickets during the exclusive pre-sale beginning Thursday 4 April at 10am and concluding on Thursday 4 April at 11:59pm.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.com.au
Geelong Symphony Orchestra Bring Music From Movies To The Stage
“Get this much money and buy all the classical music you can find downtown,” were the words of director Stanley Kubrick when building the intense moments of the mind-melting 2001: A Space Odyssey. The careful use of Richard Strauss’s tone poem ‘Also Sprach Zarathustra’ scored the crescendoed embryonic space scene, cementing it as a cultural moment that lives on in cinema history whilst being heavily referenced in pop culture.
Just last year we saw it adapted in the realm of Barbie World and in February pop-punk legends Blink-182 dramatically entered the stage each night of their fifteen-show tour to the orchestral piece.
Kubrick is not the only director to use this transformative formula to heighten scenes, enhance characters and world-build. ‘The Imperial March’ defined the formidable villain, Darth Vader, and Steven Spielberg built the hero narrative around Indiana Jones through John Williams’ composition of ‘The Raiders March’. Williams also sonically transported audiences into the magical world of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and Howard Shore took us on a journey through Middle Earth scoring The Lord of The Rings trilogy.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Now these iconic musical moments are being brought to the stage by the Geelong Symphony Orchestra in concert, Music From The Movies.
Taking place at Costa Hall on Saturday 11 May 2024, Music From The Movies sees the GSO perform a stacked program of music themes from the aforementioned 2001: A Space Odyssey, Star Wars, The Lord of The Rings trilogy, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, along with pieces from Schindler’s List, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Mission, The King’s Speech, and Zorba the Greek.
“We have selected themes that have made an impact in pop culture and have become timeless. Whether you have seen the movie or not, you know Beethoven: Symphony No.7 or have heard the Star Wars theme. We wanted things that were really satisfying to the players to play,” says Music Director and GSO President, Wendy Galloway.
With the intention of carrying the audience into the screen through score, Music From The Movies enlists 60 talented musicians under the direction and mentorship of internationally renowned conductor Mario Dobernig. With Susan Pierotti in the Concert Master seat and well-known Australian opera singer and entertainer Sally-Anne Russell as the presenter, the GSO aims to prove their place as a top tier symphony orchestra.
“Geelong Symphony Orchestra is known for our high reputation across performances and our talented players, mainly local players. About 70% of our players are local but we did have to bring in a few imports from Melbourne,” explains Galloway.
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Consisting of teachers, doctors and engineers, GSO members are all involved not only because they are incredibly talented with their instrument, but because they are passionate about playing with Galloway commenting that “they all jumped at the opportunity to play together”.
Established in 2016 as Galloways brain child, the Geelong Symphony Orchestra’s track record is solid, taking on waltzes and orchestral show pieces from Johann Strauss II, Franz Lehár, Brahms and Puccini in Vienna – City of Dreams, mastering Sibelius Finlandia for Titans, and tackling Elga’s Enigma.
In Music From The Movies, audiences need not have a classical ear. As a 3PM matinee session, the two hour concert – including an interval – is accessible to all walks of life; symphony orchestra enthusiasts, classical music novices, film lovers, and families.
“We aim to have all of our events as early evening or a 3PM start to make sure it is accessible to everyone. We try to keep it very audience friendly – if it is fully serious classical music you can turn people off but music stays famous for a reason. People are getting more excited about symphonic orchestras and there has been a buzz about our Geelong Symphony Orchestra with strong audiences. Music From The Films is a good starting point for new audiences,” comments Galloway.
Aiming to run three shows per year, the end of the year sees the orchestra take on Mozart and Beethoven in Heroica on Saturday 26 October from 5pm at Costa Hall with further programming sorted for 2025.
“There’s certainly a desire with the players and with the audience for more shows so we’ll keep filling the need as long as we can!”
But for now audiences can dive into the cinematic universe through the swirling sound of the Geelong Symphony Orchestra in Music From The Movies. Tickets to Music From The Movies are on sale now via Geelong Arts Centre website.
Building Better Psychology Outcomes
“Music industry faces mental health ‘crisis’ as COVID-19 takes toll on vulnerable workers” reads a 2021 headline from The ABC. “‘Startling Findings’ Uncovered In Music Industry Wellbeing Survey” continued the thread in 2022 as published by The Music citing research from the first-ever music industry mental health and wellbeing survey conducted by Support Act.
That research reported statistics such as 66% of participants reported high to very high levels of psychological distress, 59% of participants had experiences suicidal thoughts at a staggering 4.5 times the proportion of the general population, and 35% reported having a current mental health condition.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Whilst these findings are specific to the music industry focused, mental health is not an industry isolated issue within Australia. Too many people are on waitlists for mental health support, while many find that their first experience with a psychologist isn’t the right fit leading to a trial-and-error approach to finding the right psychologist for them. This leads to people feeling less hopeful that there is effective support that will make them feel happier and confident in their lives.
On the Geelong front, psychologist Dr Nathan Castle is trying to solve this issue through his practice, Psychology Outcomes. Psychology Outcomes is the first Precision Mental Healthcare Service in Australia and the first clinic to be able to scientifically find the most effective psychologist for every client that calls.
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Scientific matching, as it is now called, has been tried and failed for 50 years. Psychology Outcomes partnered with an innovative tech company, Outcome Referrals, to bring scientific matching to Australia in 2021. Since that time, Psychology Outcomes has not only published their results in articles to demonstrate the effectiveness but also published the clinic results on the front page of their website so clients interested in seeking support can review them first before booking a session.
This strategy has led clients to call Psychology Outcomes directly and led them to feel more confident that they will get a psychologist who is committed to helping them achieve the best results.
A recent recipient of the TAC Value-based Healthcare Innovation Grant, Psychology Outcomes is changing the face of health care and finding the right psychologist for the right client every time.
This method is attracting psychology clinics across Australia to join the Precision Mental Health Network in an attempt to improve recovery from mental health nationally. Innovative clinics such as Lawson Clinical Psychology, Launch Psychology, ACT of Living, Solid Rock Psychology, Rhythm Psychology, Strength Psychology and Goals Psychology have joined the network in an effort to get better results for clients struggling with mental health issues. Through scientific matching, the network aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of private psychology organisations treating chronic pain, trauma and mental health.
This move to turn the traditional mental health model on its head comes from the belief that therapy can be done better. Too many Australians have experienced seeing a psychologist that simply wasn’t the right fit and know they could have gotten better results.
Through the roll out of Precision Mental Health Network, this new scientific matching method allows Psychology Outcomes to create a positive impact to Geelong locals, whilst also influencing highly effective treatments to each state to help clients more than ever.
Dr Castle notes that research has shown this innovative scientific matching approach doubles the results of mental health treatment. The best part is that clients don’t have to do anything different and psychologists don’t need to do anything different either. Asking for more from psychologists is unlikely to lead to better treatment results across Australia as they are often already overworked and, in some cases, burnt out.
It is actually more simple to identify which clients psychologists are most effective with and match clients to them. Unsurprisingly, this leads to better care, more confident clients and more fulfilled psychologists. Importantly, it allows for the reduction of the trial and error of finding the right psychologist, in turn enabling people to feel better faster, building confidence to manage their own mental health and reducing the length of costly ongoing care.
Within Psychology Outcomes alone, scientific matching is seeing amazing results. With a team of seven psychologists strong and specialising in trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional difficulties, OCD, panic attacks and substance use, the clinic is seeing an overall client reliable improvement outcome of 76%. These results are the type of outcomes that can change clients lives and family as well as friends notice.
Dr Castle comments, “As a Geelong local, business owner and clinical psychologist, I’ve seen the strain that mental health care has on everyday Australians. That’s why, in 2020 we opened Psychology Outcomes with the belief that targeting depression, anxiety, panic attacks and OCD in adults needs to be more effective so that clients can get back to their lives.
“We have improved our results year after year since we started because we are committed to thinking outside of the box as well as keeping the client outcomes front of mind. We publish our results every two years and are currently in the top 30% of effective psychology clinics internationally.”
To learn more about Psychology Outcomes and the Precision Mental Health Network or to book an appointment, head to their website at https://www.psychologyoutcomes.com/.
Splendour In The Grass Is Cancelled for 2024
Whilst the festival are yet to release an official statement, the annual 4-day music festival, usually held in North Bryon Parklands, will not go ahead this July.
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The Splendour In The Grass cancellation comes just two weeks after the line-up announcement, headed by Australian pop megastar Kylie Minogue in an exclusive festival appearance.
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The sad news follows a sling of festival cancellations with both Coastal Jam and Groovin’ The Moo biting the dust earlier this year.
UPDATE:
Splendour In The Grass has made the official announcement of cancellation at 4.00PM this afternoon via their Instagram.
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Whilst the reason for cancellation is not yet clear, it is sad to see another major festival bite the dust.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Pond Announce Australian Tour With Stinging New Album
Mark your calendars for Friday 21 June 2024 as ‘Daisy’ and ‘Paint Me Silver’ songsters, Pond release their highly anticipated tenth album Stung! out via Spinning Top Records.
The news of the new album is accompanied by a new single and music video ‘(I’m) Stung’ along with a host of tour dates for a national run throughout June and July, their first time back since 2022. Their homecoming sees them head to Hobart, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle, along with a stop at VIVID Sydney and Splendour In The Grass.
POND AUS TOUR JUNE/JULY 2024
- Friday, 14 June 2024 – VIVID Sydney at Carriageworks – Sydney, NSW
- Saturday, 15 June 2024 – Altar – Hobart, TAS
- Thursday, 27 June 2024 – Lion Arts Factory – Adelaide, SA
- Friday, 28 June 2024 – Northcote Theatre – Melbourne, VIC
- Saturday, 29 June 2024 – Princess Theatre – Brisbane, QLD
- Saturday, 6 July 2024 – Freo Social – Fremantle, WA
- Saturday, 20 July 2024 – Splendour in the Grass, Byron Bay NSW
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Since 2008, the collaborative project has seen the band churn out exciting, mind-binding tracks and playing infectious live shows, earning them massive support spots alongside fellow rockers Queens of the Stone Age across Australia and New Zealand, as well as playing sold-out shows across the UK and Europe for their headline tour.
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Their upcoming offering is no different with last months single ‘Neon River’ leading the charge, receiving praise from the likes of NME, Rolling Stone AU, DIY, The Line of Best Fit and Rough Trade.
With that in mind, you won’t want to miss their live shows.
Frontier Members can access presale tickets for the Australian Tour from 12 noon today (local time) ahead of the general public sale on Thursday 28 March at 12 noon.
Jebediah Head Dragon Club Series in Torquay This Easter Long Weekend
Presented by Moon Mother Productions and Turner Events, The Dragon Club Series is an enormous Easter long weekend of music, food and drink, and surfing, with indie darlings Jebediah at the helm of the celebrations.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
A fundraiser event for the Torquay Life Saving Club, the Dragon Club Series kicks off Good Friday, 29 March with a multi-dimensional event Track Party, seeing DJ’s, live bands, performers, pro surfers and prize give-aways blend together in a whirling overload of the senses. The Goons of Doom, DJ Eddy and Purple Disturbance get things cooking on the stage whilst Feed Me Surf Coast, Blackmans Brewery, FlowState Distillery have the food and drinks sorted.
Beloved Perth band Jebediah, responsible for 90’s anthems ‘Leaving Home’ and ‘Harpoon’ and 2011’s Kosciuszko track ‘She’s Like A Comet’, leads a solid lineup of artists for an all-in celebration on Saturday 30 March, including Bags VS DK (bliss and Eso), Durrt, Hazel Ray Band and Coastal Sounds DJ’s.
Jebediah’s headline slot for the 6 PM until midnight event comes ahead of their new album release on 12 April titled OIKS, with lead singles ‘Rubberman’ and ‘Motivation’ already making the rounds.
It’s the first show for the Kevin Murphy led group since Spring Loaded in February and their run of Good Things festival appearances closing out 2023.
They will be backed up on Sunday evening by locals The Kite Machine alongside fellow locals Savage Honey, DJ Eddy, Deporsal, Daniel Aaron and Insufficient Funds.
Tickets for the three day Dragon Club Series can be purchased via Moshtix here.
Brother-sister duo Wild Honey strike gold in achingly beautiful debut single ‘Where I’m From’
Sun-drenched melodies and groovy vibes await listeners in Wild Honey’s debut single, ‘Where I’m From’, a tender indie-pop ode to growing up that strikes a chord reminiscent of singer-songwriters like John Denver, Wild Rivers, and Angus and Julia Stone.
This sweetly-toned sibling duo, based on the Surf Coast of Victoria, comprises Lucy and her younger brother Daniel, who have been harmonising together since their childhood days. Their musical synergy is palpable, their voices blending seamlessly to create a captivating sonic tapestry that draws listeners in from the first note.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
In “Where I’m From,” produced by Ocean Grove talent Jordy Merry and mixed/mastered by Geelong’s renowned Isaac Barter, Wild Honey effortlessly melds folk-inspired melodies with indie-pop sensibilities. The song’s instrumentation is a lush fusion of acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, and subtle electronic flourishes, creating an atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements the duo’s heartfelt lyrics.
The song serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time, as Lucy, a journalist, and Daniel, a history major, merge their love for storytelling with smooth vocal tones.
For Daniel, the journey of releasing these songs marks a poignant milestone. “Lucy and I have been singing together for years,” he shares, reminiscing about their childhood escapades singing folk tunes during family road trips. Now, with their lives taking them a few hours apart and filling up with adult responsibilities, their music serves as a bridge between past and present, a testament to the unique bond shared by siblings.
Lucy adds depth to their creative process, reflecting on the genesis of ‘Where I’m From’ and its evolving significance over the years. “We wrote it a few years ago, contemplating what it would feel like to look back after everything changes,” she explains. Distance and busyness may have altered their dynamics, but through their music, they capture the ephemeral nature of home and belonging.
And the result? A three-minute heartfelt ballad that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of growing up.
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With its lush instrumentation and evocative lyricism, ‘Where I’m From’ offers a glimpse into Wild Honey’s musical ethos, rooted in the rich tradition of folk storytelling.
Lucy explains, “We love singing stories that feel significant. It’s always been the drawcard of folk music for us; it tells stories.” Their debut single sets the stage for an exciting journey ahead, as Wild Honey embarks on a musical exploration of life, love, and the passage of time.
Merely the first taste of brilliance from this promising sibling duo, ‘Where I’m From’ serves as a testament to their talent and potential.
With its captivating melodies and heartfelt lyricism, Wild Honey’s debut single is a must-listen for anyone craving authentic storytelling and soulful melodies.
Keep up with the latest from Wild Honey here.
The World’s Largest Sunflower Is Coming To Mornington Green
Known for its redefined concepts of garden curation, Mornington Green Legacy Gardens invites families to witness the golden magic of the world’s largest sunflower.
The unveiling of the 120,000-strong sunflower arrangement occurs as the flowers are in full bloom across selected weekends across March and April from 30 March until 13 April.
Mornington Green
- Viewing opportunities are across selected weekends in March and April – 30 March, 6 April, 7 April and 13 April
- Mornington Green Legacy Gardens are a stunning site for exploration
- $13 entry (kids enter free) with picnic packs available
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Visitors will not only have the chance get a great Instagram snap, but be able to explore the Mornington Green grounds before the weather gets too cold, engage in a variety of activities and indulge in a delightful picnic surrounded by the world’s largest sunflower, offering a prime view of the blooming spectacle.
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The immersive experience is not only a treat for guests but a chance to explore and take part in activities on site with tickets at only $13 per person with kids under 10 free. Families can also take full advantage of the picturesque garden setting and get a picnic pack at $45. Additionally the Mornington Green will offer sausage sizzles each weekend for the hungry crowds.
Feast your eyes on the sunflower spectacle from Saturday 30 March.
Further information on the Mornington Green Sunflower Spectacle event, ticketing and picnic pack purchases can be found here.
The Paper Kites Announce Homecoming Tour
Returning to home soil following a sold-out US tour, Melbourne indie-folk band The Paper Kites announce a homecoming Australian tour this coming June.
The quintet responsible for airy numbers ‘Bloom’ and ‘Electric Indigo’ will be performing alongside The Roadhouse Band in an Australian first, playing cities across consecutive Saturdays.
The Paper Kites will be hitting up Freo.Social on Saturday 9 June, The Tivoli in Brisbane on Friday 14 June, Sydney’s Enmore Theatre on Saturday 15 June, to their stomping ground of Melbourne’s Forum on Friday 21 June and finishing up at Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on Saturday 22 June.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The Paper Kites and The Roadhouse Band Australian Tour announcement comes two years after their last shows in Australia where they performed to sell-out audiences across the county, and six months after the release of their sixth studio album and most poignant project to date, At The Roadhouse.
It’s the first time Australian fans will hear the most-loved tracks from the project, an album that was recorded in an abandoned heritage venue in the small Australian town of Campbells Creek in 2022, now fondly called The Roadhouse. The month-long residency at The Roadhouse saw the band tackled a new style of songwriting and producing which involved community performances and finessing. The result is an album that captures the spirit of old-time country and blues, rich with smoky vocals and a magnetic groove.
In addition, fans will be taken back to their debut EP, Woodland, which yielded global attention. Single ‘Bloom’ shot to platinum certification in the US (and subsequently went platinum in 6 other countries, including Australia), tallying over half a billion streams and singing on fourteen years later.
The ARIA Award and J Award nominees will also litter the set with tracks from their expansive catelogue between Woodland and The Roadhouse, distinctly the 2013 States, 2015 big-hitter twelvefour, On the Train Ride Home and On The Corner Where You Live from 2018, and the 2021’s Roses.
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Due to play at this year’s Bluesfest in Byron Bay this week, The Paper Kites will hop overseas for a European tour with multiple sold-out dates before their highly anticipated return home. Make sure you don’t miss The Paper Kites special homecoming shows.
Frontier Member presale begins Tuesday 26 March from 9am local time before general tickets on sale Wednesday 27 March. Tickets and tour information via frontiertouring.com/thepaperkites.
The Paper Kites
Australia’s biggest indie-folk band, The Paper Kites, are hitting home soil in 2024. Frontier Touring today announce the Melbourne-born band will return to Australia for a series of special headline shows this June.
Frankie. Bar & Eatery’s Stunning New Location is a Must-Visit Destination in Geelong
In the heart of Geelong, where culinary innovation meets a chic atmosphere, there’s a new chapter unfolding at the renowned frankie. Bar & Eatery.
Since its relocation to 26 Malop Street five months ago, this Pan-Asian fusion hotspot has been making waves, captivating locals and visitors alike with its irresistible charm and delectable offerings.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
The move marked not just a change in address but a significant upgrade in the dining experience. The beloved ground floor housing a bustling restaurant and bar, complemented by an elegant upstairs function area, perfect for those special occasions.
If you haven’t already experienced the magic of the new frankie., allow us to paint a picture for you: A spacious two-level venue, exuding an air of contemporary elegance and warmth. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by plush leather couches, soft rose-gold accents, and ambient setting for lingering over Saturday night drinks or romantic evening dining.
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But fear not, loyal frankie. enthusiasts, while the venue may be new, the essence remains unchanged. Ross Blackam, the visionary behind the brand, affirms this sentiment, “We have outgrown our current location and when an opportunity presented itself to expand our premises, we jumped at it.”
It’s not just the ambiance that sets frankie. apart – it’s the food. Oh, the food. From the moment you take your first bite of the signature Golden Balls or the finger-licking Popcorn Chicken, you’ll understand why frankie. has become the talk of the town. Each dish is a celebration of flavour and creativity, crafted with care and precision by the talented culinary team. You can’t go wrong with the steamed prawn dumplings and the pan-fried pork and chive gyoza, both served with delicious accompanying dipping sauces. Or go all out with the Kingfish Ceviche, the Wagyu beef meatballs, or the classic crispy cheeky chicken.
And let’s talk about the cocktails. With over 30 handcrafted concoctions to choose from, each more tempting than the last, frankie. elevates the art of mixology to new heights. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic tipple or a daring innovation, there’s something to tantalise every palate. We recommend opting for the Espresso Martini, or try the Clover Club if you’re into gin.
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But what truly set this perfect pastel restaurant apart is its commitment to inclusivity. With a comprehensive dietary needs menu, catering to vegans, gluten-free diners, and those with allergies, everyone can dine with confidence and joy. It’s this dedication to hospitality that has earned frankie. its status as a must-visit destination in Geelong’s culinary scene.
Perhaps the most enticing offering on the new frankie. menu is the Bottomless Lunch. Held every Friday and Saturday, this indulgent experience invites guests to enjoy 1.5 hours of divine drinks and fabulous food for just $89 per person. It’s the ultimate way to treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable dining experience.
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone who appreciates good food and great company, frankie. Bar & Eatery is a destination not to be missed.
Frankie. is located at 26 Malop Street, Geelong. They’re open Monday to Saturday from 12pm to late. Find out more here.
Win: We’re giving away 5 double passes to see Chris Isaak in Geelong for A Day on the Green this April
The sensational Chris Isaak, the platinum-selling and GRAMMY-nominated maestro, is making a triumphant return to Australia and New Zealand, for an electrifying series of “In Concert” performances, including a series of concerts at a day on the green this April.
Lucky for us, that includes an a day on the green performance at Geelong’s Mt Duneed Estate on Saturday 6 April. Joining the legendary crooner at a day on the green will be very special guests Boy & Bear, Vika & Linda, Ella Hooper and local legends The Mojo Corner.
Chris Isaak – A Day on the Green Geelong
- Mt Duneed Estate, Geelong – Saturday, April 6 2024.
- Joined by special guests Boy & Bear, Vika & Linda, Ella Hooper and local band The Mojo Corner.
- Tickets here.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
To celebrate this , we’ve got five double passes to give away to a handful of our lucky readers to witness the magic of Chris Isaak this April in Geelong.
To be in the running, all you have to do is enter below by filling out your name and email.
By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
Get tickets here.
OK Star Bowl Shepparton
Surprise Chef
BARKAA
Miss Kaninna
DJ PGZ
Naycab
Yordja
PLUS
Free Bowling
Tell Your Friends You Love Them
Shepparton Culture Kitchen
Car Park Party
Strike the 6th of April off the calendar. OK Motels and Creative Victoria are letting it rip for one night only from the lanes of Shepparton’s famed bowling alley, Star Bowl.
A 60 years young late night hot spot, Star Bowl charms you to hit the timber, rattle the pins and play on to the sounds of Surprise Chef, BARKAA, Miss Kaninna, DJ PGZ and Naycab. Split the sets with some carpark hoo haa at the OK Bar, a bite at the Shepparton Culture Kitchens and a surprise cameo from Tell Your Friends You Love Them. If you’re nowhere near done dancing, there’ll be DJs to keep you loose and limber between frames.
Sound right up your alley? Pop over to Shepparton, say g’day and let the good times roll. We’ll be waiting for you.