Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for October 6 - October 12, 2008.
This week, the Melbourne International Arts Festival begins with its extensive program of music, culture and Melbourne's beloved Yartz. There are also two great festivals this weekend, both in splendid surrounds, with the Macedon Ranges Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Port Fairy Spring Music Festival. And for wine lovers there are two special events this weekend with Bendigo Heritage Uncorked and Shedfest, a weekend of Open Wineries, music, food and fun.
Meanwhile, Melbourne still has a very timely Spring to its step with the ongoing Victorian Seniors' Festival with special screenings at ACMI and attractions across Victoria, while Fringe Festival still offers a week of performances, exhibitions and more.
There are sport details, special dining offers and info on upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
NEWSLETTER
Not receiving our newsletter? Get your copy of What's On this Week!
Major Events Guide
The Melbourne International Arts Festival begins this week, beginning this Thursday with the Opening Night celebrations, held at Federation Square. A free event, the Opening Night celebrates artists, audiences and Melbourne itself with a vibrant concert that features bands, musicians and singers from many cultural backgrounds. With a huge program of arts and musical events, the festival will run until October 25th.
Macedon Ranges Jazz & Heritage Festival, running from Friday to Sunday in Kyneton offers a larger program than last year, with this year's festival promising three days of entertainment with top bands and classic jazz in performances that include free events open to the public. Highlights of the festival include a Youth Jazz Workshop and the popular Jazz Cabaret at the festival's hub, Kyneton Town Hall.
The Port Fairy Spring Music Festival, held each year in October, runs from Friday to Sunday when one of Victoria's most picturesque coastal town comes alive for a weekend of music and entertainment. This year the Spring Music Festival will showcase many of Australia's finest singers and musicians together with the talents of brilliant young performers, offering a program that has something for people of all ages.
Victorian Seniors Festival Week, running until Sunday, includes more than 1000 free and low-cost events across Victoria that aim to entertain, educate and celebrate Melbourne and Victoria's senior community. This year the Aveo Live Well Festival Hub in the Lower Melbourne Town Hall is open daily offering festival visitors an opportunity to relax with a free tea or coffee while enjoying eclectic entertainment.
Melbourne Fringe Festival continues this week, running until Sunday. Celebrating its 26th year with a large range of events, exhibitions and public performances taking place throughout Melbourne, this year's festival is bigger than ever. Presented by The Age, this year's festival features 10 major projects and almost 300 events in its large and varied program, showcasing the talents of independent artists.
Upcoming Events
Melbourne City Romp will be held next Sunday, but you can have fun before then and even win great prizes with their online 'Virtual Romp' competition each week where you can have a try at guessing the weekly riddle about an iconic Melbourne venue. Prizes include the Melbourne icons package, a $100 myer voucher, a pair of $220 keen shoes or Go For Your Life backpack jampacked with $79 worth of healthy goodies.
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
To find out about future events in Melbourne, have a look at our new calendar, with details about many more events that lie ahead, including Exhibitions, Gigs, Markets, Expos and much more..
Elements, presented by Engineers Without Borders, is a nationally touring indigenous art exhibition that will be appearing in Melbourne at The Atrium of 161 Collins Street. Celebrating the amazing diversity of Indigenous Australia, the exhibition opens on Friday night.
The Wildlife Art Exhibition & Awards, opening on Tuesday at Montsalvat Art Gallery, is an exciting exhibition by the top Wildlife and Botanical artists from Wildlife Art Society of Australasia. With work in a wide range of styles and mediums, it runs until November 4.
Delightful, an exhibition by Soula Mantalvanos, is a series of evocative and quirky portraits of an eccentric Melbourne-based author, Lynn Savery. Set in the cafes of inner city Melbourne, the show runs at Gasworks as part of this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Get Trucked is a special exhibition at Brunswick's 696 Gallery that features 100 customised Trucker Caps, each designed by an artist especially for the exhibition. Running until October 22, all caps on show are for sale with proceeds going to the Cancer Foundation.
Adrift, now on show at the 775 Art + Craft gallery in Red Hill, features the new body of work from Trent Edward, showcasing the grandeur of Australia's coastal lines. Capturing the raw energy of atmospheric seascapes, it runs until October 26.
The Drawn Blank Series, currently showing at Artiq Galleries in South Yarra, is a series of watercolour and gouache paintings created by Bob Dylan, based on drawings and sketches made on the road from 1989 to 1992. The exhibition runs until October 24th.
Some Feeling, the latest photographic exhibition from Richard Lipp, explores landscapes that show aspects that can't be seen, but rather felt. Running at First Site Gallery till Saturday, the exhibition is a portrait of the Western Suburbs captured during the night.
A Brief History of Graffiti is a photographic exhibition of slogan graffiti from around the world. Held at Trades Hall and on display until this Sunday, visitors are invited to view the artworks and write their own response to the work.
Punk a Photographic Journey is an exhibition of work that will feature in an up and coming book that chronicles Melbourne's Punk scene, by Melbourne based photographer, Melynda. Part of Melbourne Fringe, it is showing at Gasworks Art Park.
Between Here And There, an exhibition held at Northcote's newest gallery, Immersion Therapy, features work by photographer Ying Ang. Showcasing work by the self taught artist who has hewn a highly successful career, it runs until Sunday.
Heat: Art and Climate Change is a major international art exhibition held in conjunction with the conference, Cultures of Sustainability, which offers artists and writers the chance to explore issues of climate change. The exhibition is running at the RMIT Gallery.
Sport and War is an exhibition that highlights the controversies faced by many Australian sportspersons during wartime in decades past. With original artworks, documents, photos and film, the wartime relics include a 'Brownlow' medal presented in a Changi POW camp.
Expos, Lectures & Open Days
Open Mind Fiesta, held as part of Mental Health Week, is a day is designed for the whole community, and centres on conveying serious messages about mental health in a relaxed context of every day living and fun! It takes place this Sunday in Fairfield, Station Street.
Hope for Nature is a special presentation at the Dallas Brooks Centre where Dr Jane Goodall, the world renowned primatologist, humanitarian and UN Messenger of Peace will share stories from her latest book. It takes place Wednesday evening.
Cruden Farm Spring Picnic - Dame Elisabeth Murdoch will be opening the doors to her beautiful home, Cruden Farm, with its gorgeous rose garden and lake. Held on Sunday, the Spring Picnic raises money for four important charities including Alzheimer's Australia Vic.
Gembrook Open Gardenfest takes place this Sunday, offering the public the chance to visit five wonderful gardens in the Gembrook area. The cost to visit all five gardens is just $10 per person with funds raised helping Gembrook's CFA to purchase new equipment.
Donkey Shelter Open Day - This Sunday treat the family to a fun day of activities and come meet the donkeys at the Donkey Shelter, a non-profit, organisation that helps orphaned and mistreated donkeys. The Open Day is from 11am to 3pm.
The Irresistible Gluten Free Food Show, held this weekend at the Melbourne Convention Centre, is a chance to taste and try the very best of all things gluten free with cakes, biscuits, pasta, bread, beer and more found at almost 100 exhibitors stalls.
The Investment, Property & Franchising Expos, beginning Friday at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, are all inclusive when you pay for entry to any one of the three expos. With advice on financial planning and much more, each expo will run until Sunday.
The Elmore & District Machinery Field Days, held from Tuesday to Thursday, is an exhibition where farmers can find and exchange ideas about the latest agricultural machinery and techniques. The feature of this year's event is devoted to Renewable Energy.
Performances & Theatre
Two Faced Bastard, presented by Chunky Move, is a bold new dance and theatre performance that gives a rare glimpse into the performers' world and takes the audience backstage. Performances will run from Wednesday at the Arts House of the Meat Market.
Pinned, beginning Tuesday at Dante's in Fitzroy, is a performance by Fleur Dean that stems from a meeting that took place in 1995 during her travels in the Seychelles archipelago. With gri gri, black magic and even a zombie, performances run until Saturday.
La Petite Mort, French for 'The Little Death', is a play about The Orgasm by Isabel Hertaeg, playing this week at Northcote Town Hall. Her performance uses cabaret to explore sexuality, love, science, and more with comically shocking tales filled with sultry humour.
One Man is the latest stage production of Steven Berkoff, one of the most formidable stage and screen actors. The theatrical masterpiece features two performances with Berkoff's play Dog and Poe's Tell-Tale Heart, playing this Wednesday in Frankston.
The Picture of Dorian Gray returns after a sold-out first season, beginning Tuesday at the Student Theatre of Monash University in Clayton. The adaptation of Oscar Wilde's much-loved tale of debauchery and moral corruption runs until October 19.
Hot Mikado, playing from Friday to Sunday at Altona Theatre, sees the Gilbert & Sullivan classic transformed with a swinging score that captures the 1940's spirit with jazz, swing, hot gospel and blues against the backdrop of an Americanised post war Japan.
Blowflies, presented by Theatre on Toast, is a play about blowflies, beer, babes and bastards, all part of the beloved Footy Club of the Canteen Lady, Mrs Brown. A cheeky insight into Aussie culture, there will be shows held Thursday to Saturday in Brunswick.
Hot Shoe Shuffle is an original musical comedy about The Tap Brothers, a madcap dance act who learn of an inheritance and the sister they never knew they had. With jazz classics by Gershwin, it's playing at the Alexander Theatre at Clayton's Monash University.
Kitten, now playing at the Malthouse Theatre in Southbank, is a three-act tale about Kitten, whose lover is lost at sea. Surrounding herself with the relics of what she has left, the play is a moving account of how yearning itself can be all too consuming.
Zoetrope, at a cost of $5 and running for 10 minutes, is a whirlwind live performance that revolves to the rhythms of honky-tonk jazz. Part mechanism, part human entertainment, Zoetrope appears at the North Melbourne Town Hall during Fringe.
Playspotting, presented by MelBorn08, the Melbourne Writers' Theatre's Annual 10 minute play festival, is a hot mix of 11 short plays, given life by Melbourne's finest actors, writers and directors with performances at the Carlton Courthouse until Saturday.
Curly Girls Burlesque is a show of witty, kinky dances by five talented-sexy girls with interestingly artistic costumes. Full of parodies that you would love and laugh till you drop, shows are held Saturdays at North Melbourne's Australian Centre of Performing Arts.
The Rocky Horror Show has finally hit Melbourne, bringing Richard O'Brien's classic musical to the stage with ARIA-nominated singer iOta as the outrageous Dr Frank N Furter. The iconic play and long time cult favourite is on at the Comedy Theatre.
Wicked, based on Gregory Maguire's novel, is the hit musical that tells the untold story of the legendary witches from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Now playing at the Regent Theatre, the show reveals the surprising past of the supposedly Wicked Witch.
Classical Performances
Schubert at Kyneton - Jacobs Well will be holding a Benefit Concert this Sunday, featuring a performance of Schubert by the Flinders Quartet. Held at Kyneton's St Paul's Anglican Church, all proceeds will help Jacobs Well in their efforts to break the poverty cycle.
Entertainment & Nightlife
The Willing Fundraiser, held this Wednesday at Fitzroy's Birmingham Hotel, is a night that will raise money towards education and action on Tasmanian deforestation issues. Featuring guest speaker Brian Walters SC, the night includes live music and prizes.
Bruce Mathiske's Sizzling Strings - This Saturday, Bruce Mathiske will be performing at Chapel Off Chapel. The internationally acclaimed virtuoso, known for his unique style of playing bass, rhythm and melody, will be performing at 8pm for one night only.
Hot Little Hands will be performing at The Tote on Saturday, in support of SubAudible Hum who will be launching their new single "Tokyo, Craigieburn and the Moon"- a song from their third collection of songs that represents their current sound and interests.
Singles Night @ Barzooka is a chance for singles to improve their chances of meeting someone and have some fun with "Celebrity Backs", a game where you have to find out which celebrity you are by breaking the ice with other guests. It takes place this Thursday.
Cinema
Mad Max 30th Anniversary - Celebrating the anniversary of the original and best Mad Max movie, this week there will be a special screening on Friday at the Wyndham Cultural Centre, followed by a special weekend of tours, car displays and more at Little River.
Faust, the 1926 silent film by F.W. Murnau, will be screening this weekend at ACMI, accompanied by performances of a new score by composer, Phillip Johnston and his ensemble. The performed score includes lyrics by Australian playwright Hilary Bell.
The Seniors' Film Festival, presented be ACMI as part of Victorian Seniors' Week, offers a selection of films for discerning audiences, with a celebration of classic MGM musicals, intrigue, comedy and the very best of the big screen. Screenings will run until Friday.
St Kilda's Tuesday Flicks, held on Tuesday evenings, is a special film program that will raise funds for the organisation, unChain St Kilda. This Tuesday at the George Palace Cinemas they'll be screening the award winning film, Romulus, My Father.
Comedy
Theatresports returns this year with a cast of mighty thespians battling onstage every Sunday at St Kilda's Theatreworks. Pitting teams against each other in ever-increasing degrees of improvised difficulty, each night brings hilarious feats of do-or-die wit!
Spontaneous Broadway is a chaotic show where songs are created inspired by titles supplied by the audience. Solos, dance numbers and plots are improvised in this truly Off-Off-Broadway show, running at the Lithuanian Club until Saturday.
La Mama for Kids, a regular monthly program of performances for children at Carlton's historic theatre, will present BubbleWrap and Boxes this Saturday, a story about living in a big world told using acrobatics, clowning, dance and plenty of cardboard boxes.
Meccano Exhibition - The Melbourne Meccano Club's annual exhibition will be held this weekend in Gardenvale, celebrating a love of Meccano with a display of models that include mechanical computers, curious clocks, and some very surprising contraptions.
The Fisher-Price PlayTrain, now touring shopping centres, will appear at Highpoint from Friday to Sunday. The special play setting lets kids discover the magic of play while parents can also seek advice from qualified early childcare professionals.
We've rearranged the letters of three of the attractions featured in this week's newsletter. See if you can figure them out! Sign up for Next Week's Newsletter to avoid missing the answers..
Monies Find Tape
Trap Elite Tom
The Sandlot Hilt
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of the Nobbies, home to many penguins and seabirds... See if you can spot them! Sign up for answers revealed in Next Week's Newsletter
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
Friend Magnet is a new game presented by Ebay Australia and Windows Live Messenger that lets you have fun and win prizes, not only for you, but also friends that you have on MSN Live Messenger! With over $100K in prizes to be won, there are special new prizes made available on different days, so be sure to look in and see what's up for grabs each day and grab a friend online to join the fun... Start Winning Today!
The Royal Melbourne Hospital Home Lottery offers thousands of fantastic prizes and also helps the hospital in providing the best care for possible for those in need of their many services. This year, for the first time ever, the much-anticipated grand prize is a fully furnished $2.1 million Englehart Grand Prize Showhome that comes complete with a brand new 2008 Mercedes-Benz C200 Classic in the driveway...
Community
The Existentialist Society host free public lectures, held, that cover diverse and often conflicting schools of thought followed by a Q&A session with the audience. Held monthly at the Unitarian Church Hall, this Tuesday's guest is John Noack of the Carl Jung Society.
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on public support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate or to benefit others. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Girls Night In raises funds for the Cancer Council and is a great way to have fun with friends without a man in sight, while raising awareness and money that can go towards the Cancer Council's quest to defeat women's cancer. During October you can host your own event by simply having friends over for an entertaining night in and asking everyone to make a donation during your special night.
RSPCA Happy Tails Day is your chance to derriere to be different by taking part in this special day, held on Friday as part of the annual national RSPCA Awareness Week. Held for the first time last year, people of all ages across Australia wore plush tails, ears and badges to show their support. By visiting the RSPCA website you can find out how to organise your own event or find other events in your area.
Markets, Fetes and Fairs
Spring Into Gardening is the City of Stonnington's annual celebration, bringing together community groups and offering inspiration for all gardeners. Focusing on sustainable gardening, the event on Sunday includes food stalls, kids activities and more.
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
An increasing number of food and produce markets including wine are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Each week we highlight five of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
To find out how you can join Melbourne's largest online community Visit Here!
Advertising your Business or Event at OnlyMelbourne is not only easy, but best of all it's FREE!! - Get Listed.. - don't forget to tell your friends!
Sporting Events
Spring Racing Carnival
Victoria's Spring Racing Carnival showcases 50 days of premier world-class thoroughbred racing and a party atmosphere unmatched at any other Australian sporting event! Each year, the Spring Racing Carnival puts Victoria on the international map with its high-quality horse racing that incorporates 85 race meetings across the state, with 20 Country Cups at venues such as Ararat! It runs until November 19th.
Spring Racing Carnival | Caulfied - The Age Caulfield Guineas Day, taking place Saturday, is the time-honoured Classic for three year old horses, highlighting one of the racing year's great days. With three Group One races, this is truly a purist's dream!
Melbourne Tigers vs Perth Wildcats
Wed 10 Oct, 7:30pm
State Netball & Hockey Centre, Parkville
Fun Runs
The Samsung Melbourne Marathon returns for its 31st year this Sunday, offering something for everyone with 4 events on offer at the MCG including a Fun Walk and a total of $55,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs!
Dining & Drink
Wining
Shedfest, held on Saturday and Sunday, is a very special Open Winery Weekend that will see wineries along Warburton Highway opening their doors with live music entertainment, wine tastings and much more, all set amidst the Seville area's stunning views.
Bendigo Heritage Uncorked is a moveable feast event, held this weekend at Bendigo's Performing Arts Centre. Presented by the winemakers of Bendigo, this unique wine festival showcases the best of Bendigo's wine, restaurants and grand gold rush architecture.
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Alpino, located on vibrant Lygon Street, offer a large seasonal menu of Italian & International Cuisine, made from the freshest market products...
Menulog Home Delivery is a great chance to eat fine cuisine at home! With over 300 of the best restaurants on offer, you're sure to find something to suit any taste or occasion. To find fast and easy delivery in your area, Visit Here.
Melbourne Tours
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It's recently been discovered by OnlyMelbourne that our fair city could well have another contender for one of the shortest highways in the world..
For many years Chandler Highway was considered the worlds shortest highway, but we noticed on Google maps that a small part of City Road in Southbank is actually named Yarra Bank Highway.
The map suggests that the Chandler Highway at 1.5 km is longer but the Yarra Bank Highway is in fact 2 km long making it a small .5 km longer than the world's shortest 'highway' Chandler Highway.
Speaking of what's on, our new calendar allows you to select any day of the year to view everything (everything!!!) on that day in an easy to read, printable display.
-:- View What's On Calendar
-:- View Markets Only Calendar
Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for October 6 - October 12, 2008.
This week, the Melbourne International Arts Festival begins with its extensive program of music, culture and Melbourne's beloved Yartz. There are also two great festivals this weekend, both in splendid surrounds, with the Macedon Ranges Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Port Fairy Spring Music Festival. And for wine lovers there are two special events this weekend with Bendigo Heritage Uncorked and Shedfest, a weekend of Open Wineries, music, food and fun.
Meanwhile, Melbourne still has a very timely Spring to its step with the ongoing Victorian Seniors' Festival with special screenings at ACMI and attractions across Victoria, while Fringe Festival still offers a week of performances, exhibitions and more.
There are sport details, special dining offers and info on upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
NEWSLETTER
Not receiving our newsletter? Get your copy of What's On this Week!
Major Events Guide
The Melbourne International Arts Festival begins this week, beginning this Thursday with the Opening Night celebrations, held at Federation Square. A free event, the Opening Night celebrates artists, audiences and Melbourne itself with a vibrant concert that features bands, musicians and singers from many cultural backgrounds. With a huge program of arts and musical events, the festival will run until October 25th.
Macedon Ranges Jazz & Heritage Festival, running from Friday to Sunday in Kyneton offers a larger program than last year, with this year's festival promising three days of entertainment with top bands and classic jazz in performances that include free events open to the public. Highlights of the festival include a Youth Jazz Workshop and the popular Jazz Cabaret at the festival's hub, Kyneton Town Hall.
The Port Fairy Spring Music Festival, held each year in October, runs from Friday to Sunday when one of Victoria's most picturesque coastal town comes alive for a weekend of music and entertainment. This year the Spring Music Festival will showcase many of Australia's finest singers and musicians together with the talents of brilliant young performers, offering a program that has something for people of all ages.
Victorian Seniors Festival Week, running until Sunday, includes more than 1000 free and low-cost events across Victoria that aim to entertain, educate and celebrate Melbourne and Victoria's senior community. This year the Aveo Live Well Festival Hub in the Lower Melbourne Town Hall is open daily offering festival visitors an opportunity to relax with a free tea or coffee while enjoying eclectic entertainment.
Melbourne Fringe Festival continues this week, running until Sunday. Celebrating its 26th year with a large range of events, exhibitions and public performances taking place throughout Melbourne, this year's festival is bigger than ever. Presented by The Age, this year's festival features 10 major projects and almost 300 events in its large and varied program, showcasing the talents of independent artists.
Upcoming Events
Melbourne City Romp will be held next Sunday, but you can have fun before then and even win great prizes with their online 'Virtual Romp' competition each week where you can have a try at guessing the weekly riddle about an iconic Melbourne venue. Prizes include the Melbourne icons package, a $100 myer voucher, a pair of $220 keen shoes or Go For Your Life backpack jampacked with $79 worth of healthy goodies.
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
To find out about future events in Melbourne, have a look at our new calendar, with details about many more events that lie ahead, including Exhibitions, Gigs, Markets, Expos and much more..
Elements, presented by Engineers Without Borders, is a nationally touring indigenous art exhibition that will be appearing in Melbourne at The Atrium of 161 Collins Street. Celebrating the amazing diversity of Indigenous Australia, the exhibition opens on Friday night.
The Wildlife Art Exhibition & Awards, opening on Tuesday at Montsalvat Art Gallery, is an exciting exhibition by the top Wildlife and Botanical artists from Wildlife Art Society of Australasia. With work in a wide range of styles and mediums, it runs until November 4.
Delightful, an exhibition by Soula Mantalvanos, is a series of evocative and quirky portraits of an eccentric Melbourne-based author, Lynn Savery. Set in the cafes of inner city Melbourne, the show runs at Gasworks as part of this year's Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Get Trucked is a special exhibition at Brunswick's 696 Gallery that features 100 customised Trucker Caps, each designed by an artist especially for the exhibition. Running until October 22, all caps on show are for sale with proceeds going to the Cancer Foundation.
Adrift, now on show at the 775 Art + Craft gallery in Red Hill, features the new body of work from Trent Edward, showcasing the grandeur of Australia's coastal lines. Capturing the raw energy of atmospheric seascapes, it runs until October 26.
The Drawn Blank Series, currently showing at Artiq Galleries in South Yarra, is a series of watercolour and gouache paintings created by Bob Dylan, based on drawings and sketches made on the road from 1989 to 1992. The exhibition runs until October 24th.
Some Feeling, the latest photographic exhibition from Richard Lipp, explores landscapes that show aspects that can't be seen, but rather felt. Running at First Site Gallery till Saturday, the exhibition is a portrait of the Western Suburbs captured during the night.
A Brief History of Graffiti is a photographic exhibition of slogan graffiti from around the world. Held at Trades Hall and on display until this Sunday, visitors are invited to view the artworks and write their own response to the work.
Punk a Photographic Journey is an exhibition of work that will feature in an up and coming book that chronicles Melbourne's Punk scene, by Melbourne based photographer, Melynda. Part of Melbourne Fringe, it is showing at Gasworks Art Park.
Between Here And There, an exhibition held at Northcote's newest gallery, Immersion Therapy, features work by photographer Ying Ang. Showcasing work by the self taught artist who has hewn a highly successful career, it runs until Sunday.
Heat: Art and Climate Change is a major international art exhibition held in conjunction with the conference, Cultures of Sustainability, which offers artists and writers the chance to explore issues of climate change. The exhibition is running at the RMIT Gallery.
Sport and War is an exhibition that highlights the controversies faced by many Australian sportspersons during wartime in decades past. With original artworks, documents, photos and film, the wartime relics include a 'Brownlow' medal presented in a Changi POW camp.
Expos, Lectures & Open Days
Open Mind Fiesta, held as part of Mental Health Week, is a day is designed for the whole community, and centres on conveying serious messages about mental health in a relaxed context of every day living and fun! It takes place this Sunday in Fairfield, Station Street.
Hope for Nature is a special presentation at the Dallas Brooks Centre where Dr Jane Goodall, the world renowned primatologist, humanitarian and UN Messenger of Peace will share stories from her latest book. It takes place Wednesday evening.
Cruden Farm Spring Picnic - Dame Elisabeth Murdoch will be opening the doors to her beautiful home, Cruden Farm, with its gorgeous rose garden and lake. Held on Sunday, the Spring Picnic raises money for four important charities including Alzheimer's Australia Vic.
Gembrook Open Gardenfest takes place this Sunday, offering the public the chance to visit five wonderful gardens in the Gembrook area. The cost to visit all five gardens is just $10 per person with funds raised helping Gembrook's CFA to purchase new equipment.
Donkey Shelter Open Day - This Sunday treat the family to a fun day of activities and come meet the donkeys at the Donkey Shelter, a non-profit, organisation that helps orphaned and mistreated donkeys. The Open Day is from 11am to 3pm.
The Irresistible Gluten Free Food Show, held this weekend at the Melbourne Convention Centre, is a chance to taste and try the very best of all things gluten free with cakes, biscuits, pasta, bread, beer and more found at almost 100 exhibitors stalls.
The Investment, Property & Franchising Expos, beginning Friday at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, are all inclusive when you pay for entry to any one of the three expos. With advice on financial planning and much more, each expo will run until Sunday.
The Elmore & District Machinery Field Days, held from Tuesday to Thursday, is an exhibition where farmers can find and exchange ideas about the latest agricultural machinery and techniques. The feature of this year's event is devoted to Renewable Energy.
Performances & Theatre
Two Faced Bastard, presented by Chunky Move, is a bold new dance and theatre performance that gives a rare glimpse into the performers' world and takes the audience backstage. Performances will run from Wednesday at the Arts House of the Meat Market.
Pinned, beginning Tuesday at Dante's in Fitzroy, is a performance by Fleur Dean that stems from a meeting that took place in 1995 during her travels in the Seychelles archipelago. With gri gri, black magic and even a zombie, performances run until Saturday.
La Petite Mort, French for 'The Little Death', is a play about The Orgasm by Isabel Hertaeg, playing this week at Northcote Town Hall. Her performance uses cabaret to explore sexuality, love, science, and more with comically shocking tales filled with sultry humour.
One Man is the latest stage production of Steven Berkoff, one of the most formidable stage and screen actors. The theatrical masterpiece features two performances with Berkoff's play Dog and Poe's Tell-Tale Heart, playing this Wednesday in Frankston.
The Picture of Dorian Gray returns after a sold-out first season, beginning Tuesday at the Student Theatre of Monash University in Clayton. The adaptation of Oscar Wilde's much-loved tale of debauchery and moral corruption runs until October 19.
Hot Mikado, playing from Friday to Sunday at Altona Theatre, sees the Gilbert & Sullivan classic transformed with a swinging score that captures the 1940's spirit with jazz, swing, hot gospel and blues against the backdrop of an Americanised post war Japan.
Blowflies, presented by Theatre on Toast, is a play about blowflies, beer, babes and bastards, all part of the beloved Footy Club of the Canteen Lady, Mrs Brown. A cheeky insight into Aussie culture, there will be shows held Thursday to Saturday in Brunswick.
Hot Shoe Shuffle is an original musical comedy about The Tap Brothers, a madcap dance act who learn of an inheritance and the sister they never knew they had. With jazz classics by Gershwin, it's playing at the Alexander Theatre at Clayton's Monash University.
Kitten, now playing at the Malthouse Theatre in Southbank, is a three-act tale about Kitten, whose lover is lost at sea. Surrounding herself with the relics of what she has left, the play is a moving account of how yearning itself can be all too consuming.
Zoetrope, at a cost of $5 and running for 10 minutes, is a whirlwind live performance that revolves to the rhythms of honky-tonk jazz. Part mechanism, part human entertainment, Zoetrope appears at the North Melbourne Town Hall during Fringe.
Playspotting, presented by MelBorn08, the Melbourne Writers' Theatre's Annual 10 minute play festival, is a hot mix of 11 short plays, given life by Melbourne's finest actors, writers and directors with performances at the Carlton Courthouse until Saturday.
Curly Girls Burlesque is a show of witty, kinky dances by five talented-sexy girls with interestingly artistic costumes. Full of parodies that you would love and laugh till you drop, shows are held Saturdays at North Melbourne's Australian Centre of Performing Arts.
The Rocky Horror Show has finally hit Melbourne, bringing Richard O'Brien's classic musical to the stage with ARIA-nominated singer iOta as the outrageous Dr Frank N Furter. The iconic play and long time cult favourite is on at the Comedy Theatre.
Wicked, based on Gregory Maguire's novel, is the hit musical that tells the untold story of the legendary witches from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Now playing at the Regent Theatre, the show reveals the surprising past of the supposedly Wicked Witch.
Classical Performances
Schubert at Kyneton - Jacobs Well will be holding a Benefit Concert this Sunday, featuring a performance of Schubert by the Flinders Quartet. Held at Kyneton's St Paul's Anglican Church, all proceeds will help Jacobs Well in their efforts to break the poverty cycle.
Entertainment & Nightlife
The Willing Fundraiser, held this Wednesday at Fitzroy's Birmingham Hotel, is a night that will raise money towards education and action on Tasmanian deforestation issues. Featuring guest speaker Brian Walters SC, the night includes live music and prizes.
Bruce Mathiske's Sizzling Strings - This Saturday, Bruce Mathiske will be performing at Chapel Off Chapel. The internationally acclaimed virtuoso, known for his unique style of playing bass, rhythm and melody, will be performing at 8pm for one night only.
Hot Little Hands will be performing at The Tote on Saturday, in support of SubAudible Hum who will be launching their new single "Tokyo, Craigieburn and the Moon"- a song from their third collection of songs that represents their current sound and interests.
Singles Night @ Barzooka is a chance for singles to improve their chances of meeting someone and have some fun with "Celebrity Backs", a game where you have to find out which celebrity you are by breaking the ice with other guests. It takes place this Thursday.
Cinema
Mad Max 30th Anniversary - Celebrating the anniversary of the original and best Mad Max movie, this week there will be a special screening on Friday at the Wyndham Cultural Centre, followed by a special weekend of tours, car displays and more at Little River.
Faust, the 1926 silent film by F.W. Murnau, will be screening this weekend at ACMI, accompanied by performances of a new score by composer, Phillip Johnston and his ensemble. The performed score includes lyrics by Australian playwright Hilary Bell.
The Seniors' Film Festival, presented be ACMI as part of Victorian Seniors' Week, offers a selection of films for discerning audiences, with a celebration of classic MGM musicals, intrigue, comedy and the very best of the big screen. Screenings will run until Friday.
St Kilda's Tuesday Flicks, held on Tuesday evenings, is a special film program that will raise funds for the organisation, unChain St Kilda. This Tuesday at the George Palace Cinemas they'll be screening the award winning film, Romulus, My Father.
Comedy
Theatresports returns this year with a cast of mighty thespians battling onstage every Sunday at St Kilda's Theatreworks. Pitting teams against each other in ever-increasing degrees of improvised difficulty, each night brings hilarious feats of do-or-die wit!
Spontaneous Broadway is a chaotic show where songs are created inspired by titles supplied by the audience. Solos, dance numbers and plots are improvised in this truly Off-Off-Broadway show, running at the Lithuanian Club until Saturday.
La Mama for Kids, a regular monthly program of performances for children at Carlton's historic theatre, will present BubbleWrap and Boxes this Saturday, a story about living in a big world told using acrobatics, clowning, dance and plenty of cardboard boxes.
Meccano Exhibition - The Melbourne Meccano Club's annual exhibition will be held this weekend in Gardenvale, celebrating a love of Meccano with a display of models that include mechanical computers, curious clocks, and some very surprising contraptions.
The Fisher-Price PlayTrain, now touring shopping centres, will appear at Highpoint from Friday to Sunday. The special play setting lets kids discover the magic of play while parents can also seek advice from qualified early childcare professionals.
We've rearranged the letters of three of the attractions featured in this week's newsletter. See if you can figure them out! Sign up for Next Week's Newsletter to avoid missing the answers..
Monies Find Tape
Trap Elite Tom
The Sandlot Hilt
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of the Nobbies, home to many penguins and seabirds... See if you can spot them! Sign up for answers revealed in Next Week's Newsletter
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
Friend Magnet is a new game presented by Ebay Australia and Windows Live Messenger that lets you have fun and win prizes, not only for you, but also friends that you have on MSN Live Messenger! With over $100K in prizes to be won, there are special new prizes made available on different days, so be sure to look in and see what's up for grabs each day and grab a friend online to join the fun... Start Winning Today!
The Royal Melbourne Hospital Home Lottery offers thousands of fantastic prizes and also helps the hospital in providing the best care for possible for those in need of their many services. This year, for the first time ever, the much-anticipated grand prize is a fully furnished $2.1 million Englehart Grand Prize Showhome that comes complete with a brand new 2008 Mercedes-Benz C200 Classic in the driveway...
Community
The Existentialist Society host free public lectures, held, that cover diverse and often conflicting schools of thought followed by a Q&A session with the audience. Held monthly at the Unitarian Church Hall, this Tuesday's guest is John Noack of the Carl Jung Society.
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on public support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate or to benefit others. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Girls Night In raises funds for the Cancer Council and is a great way to have fun with friends without a man in sight, while raising awareness and money that can go towards the Cancer Council's quest to defeat women's cancer. During October you can host your own event by simply having friends over for an entertaining night in and asking everyone to make a donation during your special night.
RSPCA Happy Tails Day is your chance to derriere to be different by taking part in this special day, held on Friday as part of the annual national RSPCA Awareness Week. Held for the first time last year, people of all ages across Australia wore plush tails, ears and badges to show their support. By visiting the RSPCA website you can find out how to organise your own event or find other events in your area.
Markets, Fetes and Fairs
Spring Into Gardening is the City of Stonnington's annual celebration, bringing together community groups and offering inspiration for all gardeners. Focusing on sustainable gardening, the event on Sunday includes food stalls, kids activities and more.
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
An increasing number of food and produce markets including wine are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Each week we highlight five of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
To find out how you can join Melbourne's largest online community Visit Here!
Advertising your Business or Event at OnlyMelbourne is not only easy, but best of all it's FREE!! - Get Listed.. - don't forget to tell your friends!
Sporting Events
Spring Racing Carnival
Victoria's Spring Racing Carnival showcases 50 days of premier world-class thoroughbred racing and a party atmosphere unmatched at any other Australian sporting event! Each year, the Spring Racing Carnival puts Victoria on the international map with its high-quality horse racing that incorporates 85 race meetings across the state, with 20 Country Cups at venues such as Ararat! It runs until November 19th.
Spring Racing Carnival | Caulfied - The Age Caulfield Guineas Day, taking place Saturday, is the time-honoured Classic for three year old horses, highlighting one of the racing year's great days. With three Group One races, this is truly a purist's dream!
Melbourne Tigers vs Perth Wildcats
Wed 10 Oct, 7:30pm
State Netball & Hockey Centre, Parkville
Fun Runs
The Samsung Melbourne Marathon returns for its 31st year this Sunday, offering something for everyone with 4 events on offer at the MCG including a Fun Walk and a total of $55,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs!
Dining & Drink
Wining
Shedfest, held on Saturday and Sunday, is a very special Open Winery Weekend that will see wineries along Warburton Highway opening their doors with live music entertainment, wine tastings and much more, all set amidst the Seville area's stunning views.
Bendigo Heritage Uncorked is a moveable feast event, held this weekend at Bendigo's Performing Arts Centre. Presented by the winemakers of Bendigo, this unique wine festival showcases the best of Bendigo's wine, restaurants and grand gold rush architecture.
Cleanskins.com sell premium Australian wines direct to the public at up to 50% off retail prices, offering Free Home Delivery and a 100% Money Back Guarantee.
Perfect for all lovers of wine, their impressive range of wines and service were recommended on Channel 7's Today Tonight and Channel 9's A Current Affair.
Dining Specials - Save Up To 20% on Your Bill Menulog is the easiest way to book a restaurant online with over 4000 restaurant listings! By booking online through Menulog you can enjoy fine food and save money with special deals offering discounts on total food bills, complimentary wine and drinks, discount group bookings and much, much more! Visit Here For The Latest Deals With Menulog!!
Alpino, located on vibrant Lygon Street, offer a large seasonal menu of Italian & International Cuisine, made from the freshest market products...
Menulog Home Delivery is a great chance to eat fine cuisine at home! With over 300 of the best restaurants on offer, you're sure to find something to suit any taste or occasion. To find fast and easy delivery in your area, Visit Here.
Melbourne Tours
Smartvisit Card is the best way to see the sights of Melbourne, whether you're visiting Melbourne for business, a vacation, or even if you're a local wanting to find Melbourne's hidden treasures!
The Smartvisit Card includes entry to attractions such as Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Aquarium, Old Melbourne Gaol, Telstra Dome, Cook's Cottage, Melbourne River Cruises, and many more of Melbourne's TOP venues!
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All year-round Attractions..
Whatever time of year you visit - rain or shine!
It's recently been discovered by OnlyMelbourne that our fair city could well have another contender for one of the shortest highways in the world..
For many years Chandler Highway was considered the worlds shortest highway, but we noticed on Google maps that a small part of City Road in Southbank is actually named Yarra Bank Highway.
The map suggests that the Chandler Highway at 1.5 km is longer but the Yarra Bank Highway is in fact 2 km long making it a small .5 km longer than the world's shortest 'highway' Chandler Highway.
Speaking of what's on, our new calendar allows you to select any day of the year to view everything (everything!!!) on that day in an easy to read, printable display.
-:- View What's On Calendar
-:- View Markets Only Calendar
The Melbourne International Arts Festival begins this week, beginning this Thursday with the Opening Night celebrations, held at Federation Square. A free event, the Opening Night celebrates artists, audiences and Melbourne itself with a vibrant concert that features bands, musicians and singers from many cultural backgrounds. With a huge program of arts and musical events, the festival will run until October 25th.
Melbourne Fringe Festival continues this week, running until Sunday. Celebrating its 26th year with a large range of events, exhibitions and public performances taking place throughout Melbourne, this year's festival is bigger than ever. Presented by The Age, this year's festival features 10 major projects and almost 300 events in its large and varied program, showcasing the talents of independent artists.
Open Mind Fiesta, held as part of Mental Health Week, is a day is designed for the whole community, and centres on conveying serious messages about mental health in a relaxed context of every day living and fun! It takes place this Sunday in Fairfield, Station Street.
Donkey Shelter Open Day - This Sunday treat the family to a fun day of activities and come meet the donkeys at the Donkey Shelter, a non-profit, organisation that helps orphaned and mistreated donkeys. The Open Day is from 11am to 3pm.
The Irresistible Gluten Free Food Show, held this weekend at the Melbourne Convention Centre, is a chance to taste and try the very best of all things gluten free with cakes, biscuits, pasta, bread, beer and more found at almost 100 exhibitors stalls.
Bruce Mathiske's Sizzling Strings - This Saturday, Bruce Mathiske will be performing at Chapel Off Chapel. The internationally acclaimed virtuoso, known for his unique style of playing bass, rhythm and melody, will be performing at 8pm for one night only.
Meccano Exhibition - The Melbourne Meccano Club's annual exhibition will be held this weekend in Gardenvale, celebrating a love of Meccano with a display of models that include mechanical computers, curious clocks, and some very surprising contraptions.
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain! 
Victoria's Spring Racing Carnival showcases 50 days of premier world-class thoroughbred racing and a party atmosphere unmatched at any other Australian sporting event! Each year, the Spring Racing Carnival puts Victoria on the international map with its high-quality horse racing that incorporates 85 race meetings across the state, with 20 Country Cups at venues such as Ararat! It runs until November 19th.
Spring Racing Carnival | Caulfied - The Age Caulfield Guineas Day, taking place Saturday, is the time-honoured Classic for three year old horses, highlighting one of the racing year's great days. With three Group One races, this is truly a purist's dream!
The Samsung Melbourne Marathon returns for its 31st year this Sunday, offering something for everyone with 4 events on offer at the MCG including a Fun Walk and a total of $55,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs!
Cleanskins.com sell premium Australian wines direct to the public at up to 50% off retail prices, offering Free Home Delivery and a 100% Money Back Guarantee.
Dining in Melbourne offers a splendid range of food styles to enjoy. Here are just a few classic food styles to choose from..
