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Experience the magic of Ireland down under: A Taste of Ireland 2024 Australian Tour

<p>Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, captivating music and mesmerising dance of Ireland as <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>A Taste of Ireland</em></a> returns to enchant audiences across Australia in 2024. </p> <p>Featuring World Champion dancers from <em>Lord of the Dance</em> and <em>Riverdance</em>, prepare to be transported to the rolling green hills and vibrant streets of the Emerald Isle, right in your hometown!  </p> <p><strong>What is <em>A Taste of Ireland</em>?</strong></p> <p><em>A Taste of Ireland</em> is not just a performance; it's an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Ireland. Combining traditional and contemporary Irish music and dance, this spectacular show showcases the incredible talent and passion of some of Ireland's finest performers.</p> <p><strong>What to expect</strong></p> <p>From the moment the first note is struck, and the first step is danced, you'll be captivated by the energy and artistry on stage. Feel the rhythm of the bodhrán drum reverberate through your bones, and let the fiddles whisk you away to a land of ancient myths and legends.</p> <p>Prepare to be dazzled by the lightning-fast footwork and intricate choreography of the dancers as they weave tales of love, loss and triumph through their movements. Each step tells a story, each leap a celebration of life itself.</p> <p><strong>Why attend?</strong></p> <p>Whether you're a die-hard fan of Irish culture or simply looking for a night of entertainment unlike any other, <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> offers something for everyone. It's an opportunity to witness the magic of Ireland's rich heritage brought to life before your very eyes.</p> <p>Forget your troubles for an evening and let the music and dance sweep you away on a journey you won't soon forget. Whether you're tapping your feet to the lively jigs and reels or wiping away tears during a poignant ballad, <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> is an experience that will touch your heart and soul.</p> <p><strong>Tour dates and locations</strong></p> <p>The 2024 Australian Tour of <em>A Taste of Ireland</em> will be making stops across Australia for 80 shows from March to July, bringing the magic of Ireland to a venue near you. <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check the tour schedule</a> to find out when this unforgettable experience will be coming to your area.</p> <p><strong>Get your tickets now!</strong></p> <p>Don't miss your chance to experience the beauty and excitement of <em>A Taste of Ireland</em>. Tickets are selling fast, so book yours today and get ready for a night of music, dance, and memories that will last a lifetime. </p> <p>Witness the show that has received rave reviews across the globe. Don't rely on the luck of the Irish – <a href="https://www.atasteofirelandshow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">book now</a>, because tickets are selling out fast!</p> <p><em>Images: Supplied.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Pace Live.</em></p>

Music

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Pink spotted at Bondi ahead of national tour

<p>In a dazzling spectacle of beach vibes and sun-soaked fun, pop sensation Pink has graced the shores of Bondi Beach ahead of her highly anticipated Australian tour.</p> <p>The iconic singer, known for her powerhouse performances and unapologetic personality, was spotted basking in the Aussie sun with her adorable children, making waves Down Under.</p> <p>The excitement was palpable as Pink, with her trademark pink hair, took to social media to express her joy at being back on Australian soil. "Bondi Beach, it's been too long!!!!!!! Bills was delicious, too. ️Soooooooo happy to be back on this side of the world! Thank you beautiful Australia for being our home away from home. Kids are stoked," she gushed alongside some envy-inducing beach pictures.</p> <p>It seems Bills, a popular eatery in Sydney, left quite the impression on the star. If Pink says it's delicious, it's practically a culinary endorsement for the ages. (Move over food critics; Pink's tastebuds have spoken.)</p> <p>But this isn't Pink's first love letter to the Land Down Under. The singer has long expressed her admiration for Australia and has been a staunch supporter during challenging times. In 2020, she pledged a generous $500,000 donation to the country's fire services during the devastating Black Summer bushfires, proving she not only rocks the stage but also has a heart of gold.</p> <p>As Pink gears up for her stadium tour in Australia, aptly named the Summer Carnival tour, fans are eagerly anticipating a spectacle that will undoubtedly leave them smiling and singing until their cheeks hurt. Kicking off at Sydney's Allianz Stadium on February 9, the tour will then take Pink and her musical carnival to various cities, including Newcastle, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.</p> <p>It's been nearly six years since Pink's 2018 tour, Beautiful Trauma, which wowed almost 560,000 Australian and New Zealand fans. Eager to share the joy once again, Pink expressed her excitement, saying, "I can't wait to bring the Summer Carnival tour to my home away from home and smile and sing together until our cheeks hurt. Summer 2024 can't come soon enough!"</p> <p>The tour is not just a celebration of Pink's electrifying stage presence but also a nod to her ninth album, Trustfall, released in February the previous year. The anticipation is building, and fans can't wait to witness the magic unfold live on stage.</p> <p>Adding a touch of whimsy to the excitement, Pink <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/my-home-away-from-home-pink-s-dream-down-under" target="_blank" rel="noopener">teased the possibility</a> of making Australia her permanent home last year. In an interview with <em>60 Minutes</em>, she revealed, "Last year, I was thinking about applying for citizenship; I am not even joking. I was like, 'If we're going somewhere Carey, [Australia] is where we're going'." Australia, get ready to welcome Pink with open arms – she might just become our newest citizen!</p> <p>So, as Pink readies to paint Australia with her musical colours and contagious energy, fans are counting down the days until the Summer Carnival kicks off, promising a tour de force that will linger in their memories long after the final note fades away. Bondi Beach, Bills, and a Summer Carnival – it's a Pink party, and everyone's invited.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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8 signs you should be booking a group tour

<p>Not sure if you should take a tour or go it alone? These are the times you’re going to want that expert on hand.</p> <p><strong>1. When you’re on a really tight schedule</strong></p> <p>A tour will help you squeeze in as much as possible in a very short time. It will plan out a sensible itinerary with no backtracking or wasted journeys and will give you a realistic idea of how much you can fit in for a day. Plus you won’t have to puzzle out public transport for yourself.</p> <p><strong>2. When you’re feeling nervous</strong></p> <p>Arriving in a new place can be scary sometimes, so having someone to walk you through it will make all the difference. If a city has a reputation for being unsafe or if it’s just your first time in a foreign country, a tour will give you a great worry-free introduction.</p> <p><strong>3. When there’s a big language barrier</strong></p> <p>We’re lucky in that much of the world speaks English, so we can usually muddle our way around. But in some countries you’ll find there’s a significant language barrier, so having a native speaker is going to make all the difference.</p> <p><strong>4. When you want to meet some locals</strong></p> <p>This might sound counterintuitive, but an organised tour can be one of the best ways to meet some locals. First of all, your guide is likely to be local and can introduce you to their hometown. Secondly, it’s daunting to walk into a crowded bar or cool café when you don’t know anyone. A guide can smooth the way and ensure you don’t get stuck in tourist traps.</p> <p><strong>5. When it’s really busy</strong></p> <p>If you don’t fancy joining the huge line outside a popular museum or waiting hours for tickets, a tour could be the way to go. They can often organise private or after hours visits, get special passes to cut the line or take you to areas that are off limits to the general public.</p> <p><strong>6. When it’s the law</strong></p> <p>Want to visit North Korea? You’re going to need to join a tour. Some governments have restrictions in place that mean foreign tourists can only visit when accompanied by a registered tour guide and independent travel is simply not an option.</p> <p><strong>7. When you’re doing something really adventurous</strong></p> <p>Trekking, white water rafting, canyoning or safaris – for safety reasons you’re going to need to join a tour. These kinds of activities can be dangerous, so you don’t want to be risking them on your own. A tour or private guide will show you the best way to get your heart pumping.</p> <p><strong>8. When you’re going right off the grid</strong></p> <p>Places like Antarctica, the Arctic, remote corners of Africa or tricky countries like Russia are best done on a tour. Often the logistics of simply getting there are impossible for the independent traveller or you will need help navigating the complex visa process. In these instances, it’s a relief to put yourself in someone else’s hands and just concentrate on having fun.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Tips

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Why guided touring is the best way to travel Europe

<p>As we head into winter and the thermostat reading lowers and the electric blankets come out of storage, your mind is probably wandering to the sun-soaked streets of Europe. Fortunately, <a href="http://www.travelmarvel.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Travelmarvel</a> has an enviable range of European river-cruise itineraries and three decades of experience touring the globes most marvellous destinations.</p> <p>More than likely, you have already considered guided touring, but are not entirely convinced it is the right option for you. Trepidation among travellers trying guided touring for the first time is very common, but once guests have experienced the ease and enjoyment of group touring and cruising, it is hard to imagine travelling any other way. Read on to discover why guided touring could be the right for your next European holiday.</p> <p><strong>Travel worry free</strong></p> <p>Planning a trip can be overwhelming, particularly if you want to visit multiple destinations. Where to begin on planning you itinerary? How do you know which towns and attractions are must-sees, and which you can afford to miss? Combine this with trying to book accommodation, dining and entertainment and you have the perfect recipe for a rather stressful few months before you have even left on your travels. Travelmarvel’s travel experts and guides take the hard work out of planning your holiday, leaving you nothing to do but sit back, relax, and enjoy each destination to the fullest. </p> <p><strong>You will have an expert Tour Director to guide you </strong></p> <p>With an experienced Tour Director with you every step of the way, you will no longer have to waste precious time getting your bearings at each new destination. Ready with a map and a smile – your Tour Director will be there to navigate language barriers, transport and any unexpected difficulties that crop up while travelling, so you don’t have to. </p> <p><strong>Local guides will ensure you never miss a thing</strong></p> <p>Guidebooks and tourist information centres are all well and good – but nothing beats experiencing a new place with a local. Travelmarvel links guests with local guides who will offer more than just the obvious tourist experiences. From recommending the best café to sample a local delicacy, to directing you to a rarely visited local artisan, you can be confident of an authentic slice of every town and city you visit. </p> <p>As Travelmarvel first-time traveller Aaron explained “I did not think I would enjoy following a paddle around a city! However, the local guides were very engaging and were able to include personal storytelling and insider-knowledge in their tours. I feel like I got so much more out of visiting each location because of the local guided touring.”</p> <p><strong>Enjoy a perfect balance of touring and free time </strong></p> <p>The last thing you want to feel on holiday is rushed, which is why Travelmarvel tours are careful to ensure there is plenty of free time built into the day’s itinerary, so you have ample opportunity to explore each destination at your leisure – or perhaps just watch the world go by with a coffee for the afternoon; the choice is yours. </p> <p>First-time river cruiser Trudi particularly loved the freedom of choice guided tours can offer: “I thoroughly enjoyed getting to a new town and doing the walking tour, then enjoying the free time we had to explore each village or city by ourselves. The freedom and design of the trip so you could opt-in to meals and tours, or do your own thing, was delightful to discover.”</p> <p><strong>Make friends for life </strong></p> <p>Many of Travelmarvel’s guests end up staying in touch long after their tour has ended. On a guided tour you will travel in a small group of like-minded individuals, so you are assured to meet people with the same interests as you, and with so many places to visit together – there will never be shortage of things to talk about!</p> <p><strong>Curated experiences just for you</strong></p> <p>One of the main benefits of guided touring is gaining access to places and experiences you wouldn’t be able to if you were travelling on your own. Travelmarvel offers Insider Experiences which will make your time abroad unforgettable. For example, on the Balkan Adventure in Belgrade your Tour Director can arrange for you visit a local family on their farm and sample their home-brewed port, a special experience unique to your guided tour.</p> <p><strong>Great value for money </strong></p> <p>Budgeting for travel is tricky, unexpected expenses pop-up, accommodation needs to be rearranged and when you don’t know the local language or customs – it is easy to get caught out. With a Travelmarvel guided tour, accommodation, transport, and a large portion of your meals are included, meaning your only expenses while travelling will be for souvenirs, sampling delicious local cuisine and treating yourself to an extra-special event or two. Also, you will always have a Tour Director on hand to help navigate the local markets and eateries.</p> <p><strong>It's good to know where you are going to go</strong></p> <p>Book your guided tour today and start getting excited! Travelmarvel provides an enticing glimpse of what you can expect on each tour – from German palaces and wineries you will visit, to the premium accommodation you can expect to return to at the end of each day, locking in a guided tour means you have plenty to look forward to long before you touch down.</p> <p><strong>About Travelmarvel</strong></p> <p>Travelmarvel makes holidaying easy, giving guests the freedom to simply marvel at the world. As a part of Australia’s largest home-grown travel company, The APT Travel Group Travelmarvel delivers a premium holiday experience while offering exceptional value, so guests can enjoy every journey to the fullest. </p> <p><em><strong>For more information, visit <a href="http://www.travelmarvel.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.travelmarvel.com.au</a>  </strong></em></p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Travelmarvel.</em></p>

International Travel

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Queensland MP pleads with Taylor Swift to bring her tour to town

<p dir="ltr">When international music sensation <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/taylor-swift-s-massive-news-sends-aussie-fans-into-a-frenzy">Taylor Swift announced her international tour dates</a>, most Australian fans fell into one of two categories: delighted or devastated.</p> <p dir="ltr">For while the star was answering the prayers of thousands and bringing her Eras Tour down under, she was only set to play in Sydney and Melbourne, leaving a number of other major cities out of the loop. </p> <p dir="ltr">And while most took to social media to share their heartbreak, some even <a href="https://www.change.org/p/get-taylor-swift-to-brisbane">launching a change.org petition</a> to bring her their way, one Queensland MP and Swift superfan opted instead to share his heartbreak with reporters down in Canberra. </p> <p dir="ltr">Andrew Wallace, who joined the Swiftie ranks thanks to car rides with his daughters and a soundtrack courtesy of the singer-songwriter’s impressive catalogue, also seized it as an opportunity to beg Taylor to reconsider her tour dates, and bless Brisbane with her presence.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Interestingly, there is about a week in between her three concerts in Sydney and two concerts in Melbourne. That is the perfect opportunity,” he pointed out. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Taylor, I’m asking you, begging you, I’m pleading with you. I’ll get down on my knees if I have to. Please come to Queensland. There are so many Swiftie fans in Queensland. I am one of them.”</p> <p dir="ltr">As he went on to note, addressing “the guys at Frontier Touring”, it wasn’t clear why Queensland had been left out, as “it’s the first time Taylor will be visiting Australia and not Queensland.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Wallace wasn’t the only one with strong feelings on the matter either, with Sports Minister - and fellow Queenslander - Anika Wells dropping by the press conference to announce that it was an “outrage” to be excluded, and Taylor should know that all too well. </p> <p dir="ltr">However, Wallace wasn’t going to hold it against Taylor, promising that their love story would continue as “no one would ever be able to develop ‘Bad Blood’ between myself and Taylor Swift. It just would not be possible.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He even went on to dedicate <a href="http://andrewwallacemp.com.au/taylorswift/">an entire section of his own website</a> to the cause, where he reiterated that he was “the dad of four daughters, and I’m an unashamed Swiftie. And I’m a proud Queenslander who knows that thousands of fans are disappointed to see Queensland left off the Eras Tour map.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m calling on Frontier Touring to extend Taylor’s tour to Queensland – and particularly to the Sunshine Coast, the heart of Queensland’s Swiftie population … we know that a visit to the Sunshine Coast would mean the world to tens of thousands of Queenslanders who think the absolute world of Taylor Swift.” </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Music

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Taylor Swift kicks off the Eras tour in sensational style

<p>Excitement was high for music icon Taylor Swift’s Eras tour since the very first announcement. </p> <p>And while controversy may have reared its head early on - Ticketmaster ran into a great deal of trouble trying to handle the masses of fans and alleged bots trying to secure tickets to the show, and that wasn’t even to mention the “dynamic pricing” debacle. </p> <p>The tour marked Taylor’s first since 2018, and features some of her biggest - and favourite - tracks from over the course of her illustrious music career … so far. </p> <p>In fact, for the first show of the tour, the 12-time Grammy award winner (and 46-time nominated artist) performed an astounding 44 tracks, for a total of over three hours. A typical stadium show will run for just under two, and average at around 20 songs. </p> <p>While some were surprised by the runtime, others barely batted an eyelid after months of speculation over what “a journey through the musical eras of [Taylor Swift’s] career” could entail. </p> <p>And from the moment people knew it was coming, the tour was set to break records. </p> <p>Taylor wasted no time with opening night, which became “the most attended female concert in US history”. The record was previously held by Madonna, who had held onto that bragging right for 36 years from her 1987 Anaheim Stadium show. </p> <p>And Taylor’s fans - affectionately known as Swifties - are well aware, their idol does nothing without careful planning and care. Album releases are often scattered with Easter Eggs for her most devoted followers to pick apart, and everything means something. </p> <p>So it came as no surprise when Taylor split her show into 10 distinct sections, each inspired by one of her albums. However, none of these were chronological, leaving even the most devoted fans to guess which they were going to hear next. </p> <p>The entire stage transformed with each new era - from the lighting to the props, videos playing behind Taylor and her dancers, and a mesmerising swim along the catwalk, everything was planned out well in advance to wow her audience. </p> <p>And in true Taylor fashion, her style on the night reflected this effort too, with the star embarking on no less than 16 spectacular outfit changes to honour each of her beloved albums. </p> <p><em>Images: Getty, @taylorswift @kevinmazur @kevincwinter / Instagram</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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“Worth the wait”: Backstage with Rod Stewart

<p>Rod Stewart has finally returned to Australia, after years of Covid-19 restrictions meant he had to postpone his highly anticipated tour Down Under. </p> <p>Long time fan and friend of the musician Richard Wilkins was one of many who saw the entertainer at his very best during his show in Melbourne, with Wilkins telling Today that the show did not disappoint. </p> <p>"He was in sparkling form last night, putting on a fabulous show and I had the pleasure of catching up with the great man, both backstage and on stage in his inner sanctum," Wilkins said.</p> <p>Stewart have Wilkins an exclusive tour of the stage being set up, while he candidly shared one of the many reasons behind his success: the closeness of his band. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">EXCLUSIVE: We went backstage with Sir Rod Stewart ahead of his Melbourne show last night! 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9Today?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9Today</a> | WATCH LIVE 5.30am <a href="https://t.co/0RhkPD0k8J">pic.twitter.com/0RhkPD0k8J</a></p> <p>— The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTodayShow/status/1635756324712480772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p>"They're a good bunch of guys, brothers and sisters - We party with each other, go out to dinner, drink together - No shagging though, they're all spoken for," Stewart said with a cheeky grin.</p> <p>Rod Stewart has regularly toured in Australia since the 1970s and has been itching to get back to the place that has always been encouraging of his music. </p> <p>"This is very special, we haven't been able to come down here since 2017 - we waited a long time for this," he said.</p> <p>"I wouldn't take their money without putting on a show. You know that, Richard, I'm an old showman."</p> <p>Rod Stewart's <a href="https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/rod-stewart-tickets/artist/736200" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Australian tour</a> will conclude with his performance at the A Day on the Green festival in Bowral, NSW, before he heads to New Zealand where he will share the stage with Cyndi Lauper. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Today</em></p>

Music

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Tragedy strikes Ed Sheeran tour

<p>Ed Sheeran’s touring partner and co-writer has suffered a major loss with the news of his teenage son’s sudden death.</p> <p>Ben Kweller, who opened for Sheeran on his 2019 tour, revealed his 16-year-old son, Dorian, was killed overnight.</p> <p>"There's no way that I can be typing this but I am….," Kweller began in a heartbreaking <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CpNSgQ5uXzd/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tribute shared on Instagram</a>. "Our son, Dorian Zev Kweller, was killed last night. He was only 16 and he was a true legend. Kindest, gentle soul, a friend to all. If you knew him, you know.”</p> <p>Kweller did not share any more information about the circumstances surrounding his son’s death, instead, he wrote about the short but brilliant life the 16-year-old aspiring musician lived.</p> <p>"We'll never get over him as long as we're here on earth. Please keep his spirit alive with your memories and the music he made: @reallyzev," the proud dad shared.</p> <p>"Dorian Zev wrote and recorded songs every day. A true poet from the day he started speaking. Only a few of his recordings were released but he was on a path and excited about his journey. He had so many plans!!! His first gig was in two weeks, at SXSW.”</p> <p>In the post, the grieving father also shared his last text message exchange with his son.</p> <p>"We're in complete shock and don't know what the future holds. Lizzy, Judah, and I have no idea how to deal with this disaster. Thank you for your prayers and support and we apologize if we are slow to respond to messages. 💔”</p> <p>Sheeran, who is currently touring Australia, counts Kweller as one of his good friends. In 2018, when the musician married his childhood sweetheart Cherry Seaborn in a secret ceremony, Kweller was one of the few invited and also performed at their wedding ceremony. Kweller also co-wrote Sheeran’s hit song <em>Collide</em>.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

News

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Daryl Braithwaite crashes Harry Styles' sold out tour

<p>As Harry Styles continues his sold out Australian tour, the British pop star has added an unusual track into his nightly setlist.</p> <p>Starting the new tradition at his first show in Perth, Styles has treated Aussie audiences with his own rendition of <em>The Horses</em>, originally sung by Rickie Lee Jones in 1989, but famously covered by Daryl Braithwaite in 1990. </p> <p>As Styles makes his way around Australia, his own version of the song has had audiences belting out the tune night after night, with one artist left very impressed. </p> <p>Performing in Melbourne's sold out Marvel Stadium, Daryl Braithwaite himself was seen in the audience, singing along to the song that made him a household name. </p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Daryl Braithwaite watching Harry cover The Horses at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia - February 25 (via fenellamai) <a href="https://t.co/zsEot2TbQt">pic.twitter.com/zsEot2TbQt</a></p> <p>— HSD Love On Tour (@hsdlot) <a href="https://twitter.com/hsdlot/status/1629529137680351232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p>Impressed with the cover, Braithwaite shared his admiration for Styles on Facebook, saying, “What an extraordinary night it was at Harry’s gig."</p> <p><span style="caret-color: #050505; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: #ffffff;">"I just love the feeling of these massive concerts as they take on a life of their own."</span></p> <p>“Harry Styles is so good at what he does and they loved him. I was completely overwhelmed by the night.”</p> <p>When Styles first performed <em>The Horses</em> in Perth, he described the track as "catnip" to Aussies, with every member of the audience knowing every word to the iconic song. </p> <p>“I’ve been playing that a couple of times here and there,” Styles said of the song. “And every time you are around an Australian, this happens.”</p> <p>Styles then turned his back to the Perth audience, pretended to hear the song, quickly twisting his head with interest, and asked, “Is that Daryl Braithwaite?”</p> <p>On Saturday, after a rousing rendition, he told Melbourne fans, “I can feel Australia coursing through my veins. I can feel it.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Music

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Harry Styles kicks off Down Under tour with bizarre Aussie tradition

<p dir="ltr">Harry Styles has kicked off the Australian leg of his tour with the most unhygienic of Aussie practices: the shoey. </p> <p dir="ltr">The British musician began the Down Under run of Love on Tour in Perth on Monday night, with the 20,000-strong crowd encouraging the pop icon to partake in the unusual tradition.</p> <p dir="ltr">Footage from the concert at Perth’s HBF Park has gone viral, as the former One Direction star drank out of his own shoe, as fans cheered him on.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the ceremonial shoey had been completed, Styles said to the crowd, “This is one of the most disgusting traditions I have ever heard of. I feel like a different person… I’m ashamed of myself.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I will be discussing this at length with my therapist. At length!”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Co5dxQTB4sX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Co5dxQTB4sX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by SHIT YOU SHOULD CARE ABOUT (@shityoushouldcareabout)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Styles also paid homage to Australia’s rich history while on stage with a performance of Daryl Braithwaite’s <em>The Horses</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The classic 1989 track, originally performed by Rickie Lee Jones, is a staple of Aussie culture, as Styles’ rendition of the song saw the entire crowd singing along. </p> <p dir="ltr">Aware of the impact of the track, Styles told the crowd, “You don’t hear that song much until you come down here and then it's like catnip.” </p> <p dir="ltr">Before the show began in Perth, there were chaotic scenes as hardcore fans waited in blistering heat for many hours before doors opened to get the best spots inside the stadium. </p> <p dir="ltr">Fans had been banned from camping out the night before, with people lining up from 5am. </p> <p dir="ltr">Harry Styles’ Australian tour continues on Friday with the first of two shows at Melbourne’s Marvel stadium, before moving to the Gold Coast and Sydney.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram / Getty Images</em></p>

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“As good as it gets”: Behind the scenes of Elton John’s final tour

<p>Richard Wilkins has shared priceless insights into the backstage experience of Sir Elton John’s final Australian tour after attending the music legend’s concert in Newcastle – and he even ran into a few more rock celebrities while meeting the man himself.  </p> <p>Wilkins had the privilege of catching up with Elton in person, after Elton launched the Australian leg of the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Farewell Tour in Newcastle, and the Today entertainment editor reported that he "absolutely delivered in spades".</p> <p>"To witness Elton John in concert is to witness an absolute masterclass in stadium entertainment and rock and roll - witnessing a legend at the top of his game," said Wilkins on the Today segment.</p> <p>And Wilkins wasn't alone backstage when it came to rubbing shoulders with the rock and roll royalty; Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman were in attendance, and seemed more than happy to share a candid photograph with Sir Elton and Wilkins.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnMB89Uri1u/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnMB89Uri1u/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Richard Wilkins AM (@richardwilkins)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Wilkins went on to say that everyone lucky enough to see Elton live would be waking up this morning "with a big smile on their face".</p> <p>"It's a joyous experience," he said.</p> <p>"A show for the ages and the great man will be waking up with a smile on his face as well knowing he's made a lot of people happy."</p> <p>“On-stage at seven. Offstage at nine-thirty. Two-and-a-half hours of hit after hit after hit… He’s “still standing”, and when he hits that piano you instantly know.”</p> <p><em>Image: Richard Wilkins / Instagram</em></p>

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Dolly Parton makes huge announcement about future career

<p>Dolly Parton has made a huge announcement about the future of her career, as she admits she wants to slow down as she "is getting older".</p> <p>The country music legend is still writing and recording new tracks for her legions of fans, but the 76-year-old has said it's doubtful she will ever tour again. </p> <p>In a new interview with <em>Pollstar</em>, Parton boldly claimed, “I do not think I will ever tour again,” before adding, “I’ll do special shows here and there, now and then. Maybe do a long weekend of shows, or just a few shows at a festival. But I have no intention of going on a full-blown tour anymore.”</p> <p>Dolly said she will continue to churn out new music, but wants to enjoy a simpler life with her husband, Carl Thomas Dean.</p> <p>Speaking of touring, Parton says, “I’ve done that my whole life, and it takes so much time and energy. I like to stay a little closer to home with my husband. We’re getting older now, and I don’t want to be gone for four or five weeks at a time. Something could happen."</p> <p>"I would not feel right about that, if I were gone and somebody needed me. Or I would feel bad if I had to leave a tour if somebody got sick at home and needed me and then I had to walk out on the fans.”</p> <p>Parton, who has been married to Dean since 1966, says her husband is who she is currently making new music for, in the form of a rock and roll album.</p> <p>“When I got nominated for the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame, I thought, ‘well, no better time to do it.’ I had always wanted to do it. My husband is a big hard rock ’n’ roll fan, and for years I thought, ‘One of these days I’d like to do an album mainly just for him, just to kind of do it.’”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Bocelli family land in Australia for epic tour

<p>Andrea Bocelli has been joined by his family on his latest Australian tour, as his son and daughter get the chance to show off their talents on stage. </p> <p>The Italian musician was joined by his son Matteo in a chat with <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/andrea-bocelli-brings-family-down-under-for-australian-tour/2c207065-359f-4593-b69a-f8445f03a224" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>A Current Affair</em></a> just hours after hey landed in Australia. </p> <p>Before beginning to speak about his highly anticipated national tour, Andrea apologised for his broken English. </p> <p>"I'm sorry, my English is horrible. I'm the only one in my family who doesn't speak English," Bocelli politely apologised.</p> <p>"For me it's difficult, because at school I studied French and I learnt my first word in English when I was 35 years old."</p> <p>Whether he spoke English or Italian, the musician was thrilled to be embarking on a tour with his kids in tow. </p> <p>"The thing that I love the most is the opportunity to travel the world with them," Bocelli said about his family.</p> <p>"For many years I went around the world alone and every time it was the moment to say goodbye, it was very sad."</p> <p>"Finally we are all together."</p> <p>The Bocelli's are in Australia for their sold out concert and to promote their new Christmas album, <em>A Family Christmas</em>.</p> <p>Andrea's daughter Virginia, 10, is also in Australia for the tour, but fell asleep moments before the interview. </p> <p>"She is exhausted. She's a very sweet little girl, she's good at school and then she comes with us to work on this beautiful project," Bocelli said.</p> <p>Despite being a living musical legend, Bocelli's most important and favourite role is being a dad.</p> <p>"I really admire the love, the passion he has for music and for life," Matteo said about his dad.</p> <p>"For example, (if) he has the passion for chess, he will give 110 per cent of his energy to study and learn more about it.</p> <p>"He's a great example."</p> <p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair</em></p>

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Bond banned: What Lazenby said to get him dropped from national tour

<p dir="ltr">Former James Bond star George Lazenby has issued an apology after he was accused of making “creepy” and “disgusting” comments during an interview in Perth.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 83-year-old actor, who was appearing as part of an Australian tour called The Music of James Bond, got up on stage and shocked the audience as they took offence to his "homophobic" comments and explicit anecdotes.</p> <p dir="ltr">Lazenby later said that he was " saddened to hear" that his stories had offended fans and said:</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was never my intention to make hurtful or homophobic comments and I am truly sorry if my stories that I have shared many times were taken that way.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am sorry and saddened to hear that my stories in Perth on Saturday might have offended some people. It was never my intention to make hurtful or homophobic comments and I am truly sorry if my stories that I have shared many times were taken that way. I only ever wish to share <a href="https://t.co/zD9jEazNm2">pic.twitter.com/zD9jEazNm2</a></p> <p>— George Lazenby (@lazenbyofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/lazenbyofficial/status/1569239419693170688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Lazenby has since been removed from all future performances on the tour.</p> <p dir="ltr">Theatre producer Concertworks said it was "extremely saddened and disappointed" by Lazenby's "language, comments and recollections" throughout Saturday's show in Perth and will provide full refunds for concertgoers.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the meantime, it has "chosen to discontinue its relationship with Mr Lazenby" and has commenced "a thorough review of the matter".</p> <p dir="ltr">According to one audience member, Lazenby spent Saturday's interview "talking about basically his sexual conquests".</p> <p dir="ltr">"He was homophobic, he swore, he certainly wasn't talking about his Bond movies," she told Perth radio station 6PR. "He downplayed the Queen a day after she died," she added.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It was absolutely unbelievable… At one point he named an Australian cricketer whose daughter he was chasing, and he said he dragged the daughter out of a pub and put her in a car in London, which again is of course horrific.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It wasn't even charming, it wasn't even funny. It was creepy, it was offensive... He was disgusting, there's no two ways about it."</p> <p dir="ltr">Another attendee described the interview as the "self-interested misogynistic stories of George Lazenby's sexual prowess, intimate details of diarrhoea and objectification of women."</p> <p dir="ltr">The West Australian Symphony Orchestra (WASO), who also performed at the show, distanced themselves from the actor in a statement released, reading:</p> <p dir="ltr">"His recollections were personal views that may have reflected a time where such behaviour was tolerated, but has never been acceptable," the orchestra wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">"His comments were his own and do not reflect our society today. His views are not shared or endorsed by WASO or Perth Concert Hall."</p> <p dir="ltr">Australia's culture minister David Templeman has added: "I understand that the audience made their views clear about the content and good on them.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Readers respond: If you could resurrect one dead singer for a farewell tour, who would it be?

<p>Most people have fond memories of seeing their favourite artists live in concert, but there are some musicians who passed too soon before they could be appreciated on stage.</p> <p>We asked our readers who they would resurrect for one final farewell tour, and the responses were overwhelming.</p> <p>Here's what they said.</p> <p><strong>Gina Colbert</strong> - Omg could only ever be Elvis, God bless.</p> <p><strong>Suzanne Stovel</strong> - So many to choose from, John Lennon, George Harrison, Freddy Mercury, Gord Downey, Johnny Cash, John Denver, Helen Reddy, Patsy Cline, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin. I would go to any one of their concerts. So many great singers have passed.</p> <p><strong>Therese Mcdonnell</strong> - John Lennon. He deserves sometime with his family.</p> <p><strong>Robyn Burton</strong> - Roy Orbison. </p> <p><strong>Dawn Dominick</strong> - Freddie Mercury and George Michael.</p> <p><strong>Donna Zwerus</strong> - Quite a few singers sadly gone too soon, probably Elvis, others that have already been mentioned. Bobby Darrin, Eva Cassidy, John Denver David Bowie to add to the list. All fabulous singers.</p> <p><strong>Gail Catchlove</strong> - John Lennon and Freddie Mercury. Can’t just leave it at one.</p> <p><strong>Wendy Sartori</strong> - Gene Pitney, Luciano Pavarotti and Billy Thorpe.</p> <p><strong>Sukirti Gupta</strong> - Chester Bennington in a heartbeat.</p> <p><strong>Lynette Bentley</strong> - John Denver. Loved his work.</p> <p><strong>Nola Clarke</strong> - Michael Jackson.</p> <p><strong>John Davies</strong> - George Harrison in a heartbeat.</p> <p><strong>Pauline Whitling</strong> - Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson, George Michael, and Aretha Franklin.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Stay the night in Dolly Parton’s tour bus

<p dir="ltr">Dolly Parton fans can now enjoy an eye-opening insight into the country music icon’s life, with her ‘Suite 1986’ tour bus available to rent for just $USD 10,000 ($AUD 14,570 or $NZD 16,110) for two nights.</p> <p dir="ltr">The tour bus, which was Parton’s “personal sanctuary” for more than 13 years, comes complete with closets still containing her old wigs and clothes and is described as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for fans to experience the “ultimate behind-the-scenes Dolly Parton experience”, according to the <a href="https://www.dollywood.com/resort/accommodations/dolly-tour-bus-experience/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Now residing permanently at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the bus itself sleeps up to two guests and comes with a guest room in the resort which can fit an additional four people.</p> <p dir="ltr">The package also includes VIP dining for four guests.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Designed by Dolly and her sisters, the motorcoach offers a unique glimpse into Dolly’s life on the road,” the website reads.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Guests will stay in Dolly’s most recent personal sanctuary, a place during the last 15 years where she wrote dozens of songs and worked on a number of hit projects that have continued to confirm her status as an international superstar.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Parton lived on the bus from late 2008 to March 2022, travelling roughly 360,000 around America on her various tours.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her “home away from home” was where she wrote some of her most famous songs, including her albums <em>Backwoods Barbie</em> and <em>Nine to Five the Musical</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having spent so much time on the coach, it’s not surprising that Parton made it more than your standard motorcoach, with various customisations including installing electric doors, a full-size refrigerator, and a spacious bath tub, as well as removing bunk beds to make room for her sprawling closet and wig cabinet.</p> <p dir="ltr">Parton even had hand-painted murals added to the walls, which include depictions of “wayfaring wanderers, wagons and crystall balls” according to the website.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Jewel-toned fabrics and décor blend seamlessly with the overall theming that Dolly envisioned and brought to life.”</p> <p dir="ltr">In line with Parton’s wholesome and giving nature, a portion of profits from every stay will be donated to The Dollywood Foundation, a non-profit foundation that funds scholarships, awards, and other non-profit organisations like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1dbcb32d-7fff-213e-65fe-cfd32b00e1a1"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @dollyparton (Instagram) / Dollywood</em></p>

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Review: Feel like a tourist in your own city at Sydney’s Opera House Tours

<p dir="ltr">Sydney’s harbour wouldn’t be complete without it, but the history and interiors of the Sydney Opera House aren’t as well known - which is where the Sydney Opera House Tours and Sunset at the House tours come in.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2391c220-7fff-4973-854f-9da71e52c361"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Throughout June, Sunset at the House gives you a chance to explore and witness the stunning harbour views during the golden hour.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/20220616_163853-scaled.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Author</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 people, making for an intimate experience as you make your way from the steps outside all the way to the Joan Sutherland Theatre near the building’s peak, then back down again to the Western Foyers and Colonnade, taking in the history of the Opera House along the way.</p> <p dir="ltr">But before you step inside, the tour’s first stop is on the steps outside, where you can view the iconic sails and the Aztec-inspired stairs designed to represent stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and into something more spiritual (at least, that’s what our tour guide said).</p> <p dir="ltr">Once inside, you’ll be treated to an immersive digital experience projected onto the ceiling above you, showcasing some of the highlights of the Concert Hall’s past performances. </p> <p dir="ltr">The tour couldn’t be any more timely either, with the Concert Hall preparing to open its doors in July after being closed for two years of renewal works.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a8cc4f9c-7fff-f708-5a4f-79afe17dd487"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">If art, architecture, history, or even acoustics technology intrigues you, you’ll be sure to find the tour to be a fascinating insight into the Opera House’s story and the work that goes into putting on its calendar of shows and performances, made all the more compelling by the engaging tour guides.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/20220616_171614-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="2560" height="1920" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Author</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Rounding out the tour with some nibbles and a glass of bubbles next to Portside Sydney, one of the Opera House’s harbourside eateries, is a nice touch that gives you the chance to enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge and its surrounds as day turns to night.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though tickets for Sunset at the House have already sold out, the Opera House will be running daily tours - without the canapes and sunset drinks - at 11.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 3.30pm until August 31.</p> <p dir="ltr">From September, tours will depart at 10.30am, 12pm and 2pm Sunday to Friday, with three tours on Saturdays at 9am, 10.30am and 12.30pm.</p> <p dir="ltr">The hour-long tours are free for children under five, with adult tickets costing $43 and $33 for conession holders. </p> <p dir="ltr">To book your tickets, head to the Opera House <a href="https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/visit-us/tours-and-experiences/english-tour.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-1db6cfb8-7fff-cfa2-6ddc-99b81a5263ef"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Sydney Opera House</em></p>

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Billy Joel's surprise touring announcement

<p>Musical icon Billy Joel has delighted fans by announcing that he will be coming to Australia for a special one-off performance.</p> <p>The legendary superstar will belt out his greatest hits at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on the 10th of December this year.</p> <p>As the the third-best selling solo artist of all time, Billy Joel has racked up more than 150 million record sales across his career. The 73-year-old’s one-night-only show at the MCG is part of Always Live, a collaboration between the Victorian Government and Frontier Touring.</p> <p>“It’s strange to go all the way to Australia to do just one show, but I guess that’s the deal,” Joel said.</p> <p>Joel has promised fans will get to hear his biggest songs when he takes the stage, which could include: Uptown Girl, Piano Man, Just the Way You Are, Movin’ Out, Allentown, She’s Always A Woman and The River Of Dreams.</p> <p>“You’ve got to do songs that people know. You can’t just do all your obscure album tracks because a lot of people may not know them,” he said.</p> <p>“You’ve got to have a good amount of hits, but you’ve also got to do songs you like to do.”</p> <p>It’s the second time Joel will have performed at the MCG after he sang with Elton John there in 1998.</p> <p>Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp told Sunrise, event organisers and all levels of government in Victoria are “pulling out all the stops” to keep her city’s status “as the events and arts capital of Australia” post-pandemic.</p> <p>General admission tickets go on sale on the 4th of July from 10 am <a href="http://www.frontiertouring.com/billyjoel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> and Frontier members can access pre-sale tickets on 30th of June from 11am.</p> <p>Telstra Plus Members can access pre-sale tickets on the 27th of June at 10 am <a href="http://www.telstra.com/music" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>

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A regal tour like no other: New Zealand locations with a nod to royalty

<p dir="ltr">From Queen streets and Queen’s parks to the entire town of Queenstown (which was named after Queen Victoria), there are a host of spots named after New Zealand’s head of state that deserve a look-see on your next visit.</p> <p dir="ltr">It isn’t just the Queen who has a Kiwi namesake either, with Albert Town, near Wānaka, named after Queen Victoria’s husband and the town of Alexandra being named after her daughter-in-law.</p> <p dir="ltr">But many of these date all the way back to the Victorian era and places named after the current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, are more select.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the <em><a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/queens-birthday-new-zealand-locations-with-a-nod-to-royalty/R7YE2WY5GEJYJEBGTY56HWMTAM/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a></em>, this list of royally-inspired locations has dwindled to make way for new developments and because of natural disasters.</p> <p dir="ltr">Of those that remain, here’s a list of spots well-worth visiting.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Parks galore</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth has been the inspiration for two parks that should be on your royal travel bucket list: one in Masterton and the other on the Kāpiti Coast.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c7292c66-7fff-061e-67b9-758100f34854"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Stretching over 638 hectares, Queen Elizabeth Park on the Kāpiti Coast was opened by the monarch during her first royal visit, months after her coronation in 1953. It boasts a vast expanse of beaches, dunes, wetland and farmland, includes a large holiday park and an ancient pā site (a Māori hill fort).</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/qeii-park.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Queen Elizabeth Park features beaches, wetlands, and more, spread across 638 hectares. Image: Greater Wellington Regional Council</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0fb5a92a-7fff-22d1-49f4-03928b8c8d60"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Masterton’s Queen Elizabeth Park, on the other hand, was founded during Queen Victoria’s reign and later renamed. The park is known as one of the best and most child-friendly parks in the country, with a castle-like playground, flying fox, BMX track, steam-powered miniature train and pedal-boat rides on the lake. It also includes a deer enclosure accessed by a swing bridge across the Waipoua River.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/qeii-park2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Masterton’s park boasts one of the country’s most child-friendly parks, and even houses an deer enclosure.Image: Destination Wairarapa</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Recreation and sports</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">After Christchurch’s Queen Elizabeth II park - built to host the 1974 Commonwealth Games - had its stadium and pool complex damaged in the 2011 earthquake, the Taiora QEII Recreation and Sports Centre was built in its stead.</p> <p dir="ltr">The big draw for the park is its aquatic centre, with its hydroslide for big kids and its play pool for tiny swimmers, and its spa, sauna and steam room.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-60a61d2b-7fff-3d12-9e13-44cf67d0c24e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Destination Wairarapa / Getty Images</em></p>

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