Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for December 29, 2008 - January 4, 2009.
This week.. it's the biggest night of the year this Wednesday as Melbourne gets set to ring in the new year with the City of Melbourne offering free events in six great locations across the city. And be sure to check our New Years guide for other great shindigs that you can get along to on the night. There's also the Peninsula Summer Music Festival beginning this Tuesday with seven days of special concerts and dining events.
And that's about it really.. In all, it's a quiet week as far as big events are concerned, but admit it, you've earned a quiet one after all the hustle and bustle of Christmas - especially if you went out and braved the Boxing Day sales!
There are sport details, special dining offers and info on upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
And don't forget, you can now view OnlyMelbourne from your mobile phone.. That's right! We now fit in your pocket, so please be sure not to leave us in the taxi on New Years Eve, and don't drop us in your beer! (A quick dip in Scotch would be welcome, though)
NEWSLETTER
Not receiving our newsletter? Get your copy of What's On this Week!
Melbourne On The Go
Mobile OnlyMelbourne - We're very pleased to announce that the OnlyMelbourne web site is now mobile compatible. To view our website, either go directly to our Melbourne home page with your web compatible phone, or Google what you're looking for and when you arrive at our web site, you'll automatically be taken to the mobile compatible version of OnlyMelbourne.
New Year's Eve
New Years Eve World Carnivale - New Years Eve this year is set to be bigger than ever before with a great night of free entertainment in Federation Square as Melbourne counts down to 2009. With the fun starting at 8pm, the night will include a fantastic range of performances, music and best of all fireworks, along with 5 other great city locations with free entertainment.
The Peninsula Summer Music Festival, beginning Tuesday, offers an exciting program that features eleven diverse concerts over seven long summer days and nights filled with world-class food, wine and music. Held in various venues in the Peninsula, including Mornington, Red Hill South, Merricks North and Sorrento it runs until next Monday.
Upcoming Events
Cricket Victoria will be hosting a Free Community Cricket Day for boys and girls aged 10 to 14, offering the chance to play with the Victorian Cricket players! Come and join in all the fun and activities on Wednesday 14th January at Preston Cricket Club. Highlights include autographs, prizes and giveaways mini cricket matches and special guest, Ned Ranger.
Registrations close 12th January
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 more.. View Future Events on any day of the week
(Broken resolutions notwithstanding!)
School Holiday Guide
Check out our School Holiday Guide for all the latest on what to do with the kids during the Summer School Holidays continuing through December and running until January 27 in 2009. The guide is Updated Weekly to highlight the best things to do over the holiday period for the young and young at heart, with events, tours and holiday care programs.. all in marvellous Melbourne!
Fairy Fanfare returns for the school holidays in Summer with a brand new twist and fabulous fairy antics for both boys and girls who can wave a wand and share in the magic! Dress up in your most fantastic costume and get ready to join in the song and dance fun. It begins this Friday and runs until January 17 with two shows daily at Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne.
Exhibitions - Art | Festival | Show
Speaking for the Ordinary Man, now showing at St Kilda's Jewish Museum of Australia, is an exhibition of sculptures by Charles Aisen, a tinsmith whose sculptures trace not only his own life journey but that of many Jews who settled in Australia. His touching works evoke the traditional world of pre-war Poland and the immigrant experience in Carlton.
Lucy Benson is currently holding an Open Studio exhibition of her work as a video artist and multimedia designer. Using her residency at Melbourne's Guildford Lane Gallery to develop new video work which will then be installed in the studio upon completion, she will be testing out work in progress in the space, as well as displaying a rotation of previous pieces.
The Water Hole is an exhibition by Swiss artists Gerda Steiner and Jörg Lenzlinger, who have created a stunning ecological fantasy-world in the main gallery of the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Bringing together made and found objects to create extravagant, magical installations that are full of allegory and beauty, the exhibition will run until March 1st, 2009.
Hocus Pocus - Science and physics become mere playthings as the world of magic, with all its baroque, buoyant charm, comes to City Museum. Proving that magic is in Melbourne's blood, the exhibition shows how our city has radiated with wonder and possibility since its streets were first paved with gold, featuring souvenirs, tools, artworks and more dating back to the 1850s.
Greenhouse by Joost is an Australian first in self-sustaining planning with this temporary event venue, currently open at Federation Square. Made entirely from recycled materials, Joost's Greenhouse will run until January and will be open daily as a gallery, cafe and social hub, while at night the unique venue will transform to become a vibrant hub to entertain the public.
Performances & Theatre
Grace, a collaboration between philosopher AC Grayling and theatre director Mick Gordon. Combining a powerful debate about faith with heartrending drama, the play sees scientist Grace Friedman become the country's most vocal advocate for atheism, while her own son becomes an Anglican priest. Performances start this Friday at the Arts Centre.
For The Good Times, presented by the Australian Pops Orchestra, is a spectacular star-studded New Year's Eve concert series, held this Tuesday and Wednesday at the Victorian Arts Centre's Hamer Hall. Compered by the entertaining Donald Cant, the concerts feature one of Australia's best jazz musicians James Morrison, along with Bernadette Robinson and other guests.
The Taming of the Shrew is a fun night of Shakespeare Under The Stars with Glenn Elston's wildly entertaining production of the Bard's classic play. A story of a relationship that starts with fire and brimstone but leads to deep love and admiration, performances are being held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, with shows then running from Tuesday to Sunday.
Billy Elliot the Musical is now playing at Her Majesty's Theatre. Based on the cult film, the stage production features music by Elton John and follows the journey of a young boy in a small mining town who stumbles across a ballet class while on his way to a boxing lesson, and realises that his future lies not in the boxing ring, as his father hoped, but on stage as a dancer.
Shane Warne the Musical is a leg-spun yarn about what it means to fall arse-backwards into the Australian Dream and emerge a champion. With a sizzling live band and an exceptional cast, including Eddie Perfect as the man himself, the show brings to life a brilliant score fusing soul, gospel, rock, and even a touch of Bollywood. It's currently playing at the Athenaeum Theatre.
The Rocky Horror Show brings Richard O'Brien's classic musical to the stage with the outrageous role of Dr Frank N Furter played by ARIA-nominated singer iota, who last gave a remarkable performance in Melbourne in the rock musical of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, the long time cult hit is now playing 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. When Dorothy famously triumphed in Oz, we only ever heard one side of the story. Now playing at the Regent Theatre, the creative team that brings the story to life includes many of Broadway's most celebrated talent.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Eli 'Paperboy' Reed & The True Loves will be appearing this Thursday on New Years Day at the Prince of Wales in St Kilda. With vocals and guitar supplied by Eli Reed, known to be an electrifying showman, the Boston-based soul band will be performing songs from their latest album 'Put on Roll With You'. On the night they will be supported by Mahalia Barnes.
Snob Scrilla will be performing this Friday at Roxanne Parlour in the city, along with Pez and supporting artists Alexx The Kidd and DJ Saucy. Based in Sydney, Snob Scrilla's style as a DJ artist, blending hip-hop with an Indie rock aesthetic, has earned him comparisons to such artists as Gnarls Barkley, with songs from his debut E.P 'The Day Before' played frequently on Triple J.
Cinema
The Rooftop Cinema flickers into action with film screenings held each week from Tuesday to Sunday. Screening everything from cult favourites to new releases and documentaries, it's the height of entertainment with screenings held on the rooftop of Curtin House, located in Swanston Street, offering night lights, classic cinema and the rooftop bar.
Moonlight Cinema is back, held at the Royal Botanic Gardens. With screenings running until March 15th, the open air cinema features a program that includes latest releases, contemporary films and cult classic movies. A great way to spend a night out with friends and family, you can bring your own picnic or purchase dinner and drinks at the cinema.
DinoStory | Sand Sculpting Exhibition - Sand Sculpting Australia will again present a special display at the Frankston Waterfront with their newest theme, DinoStory. Featuring the work of sculptors from Australia and overseas, the sand carvings will take the form of dinosaurs in stunning detail. The exhibition runs throughout the holidays.
The Wind in the Willows - Melbourne's favourite family entertainment is currently running, continuing its well-loved tradition of bringing the animals home to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Pack a picnic, pack the kids... and join Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and, of course, Mr Toad, as they bring to life Kenneth Grahame's immortal story of life on the riverbank.
Amazing Antarctica - Melbourne Aquarium's amazing new Antarctica exhibit is open during the summer school holidays, offering a completely unique experience as Australia's only venue to feature sub-Antarctic penguins. Don't miss the daily penguin feeds where the keepers will help you discover more about the daily life of the Aquarium's newest residents!
The Myer Christmas Windows, which have delighted families and kids for more than 50 years now, are displayed outside the Bourke Street store where you can now find this year's offering, inspired by Alan Snow's children's book, How Santa Really Works. A tradition that began in 1956, the marvellous Myer Christmas Windows display will be running until Sunday.
Circus Shows
Circus Sunrise Holiday Spectacular is an action-packed show for all the family, currently showing at Water Front City, located under the Southern Star Ferris Wheel. With special holiday shows held throughout the School Holidays, the circus will be presenting their Holiday Spectacular until January 26. Circus Sunrise is a true family circus with lineage going back to 1648!
Puzzles & Competitions
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of the famous Skipping Girl Vinegar Sign, found in Abbotsford... 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
Artz Blitz, held by Kingston Arts Centre is a 24-hour competition where entrants get the opportunity to create an artwork to a specific theme, exhibit in a dynamic exhibition and go into the running for over $3000 worth of prizes. With 180 places available for artists to pre-register, registrations close February 6 with the theme announced on 3RRR on later in February.
The Aussie Millions Poker Championship will be hitting Crown Casino next year in January, beginning 23 days of competition as poker players from the world over and across Australia try their hand (pun intended) at winning one of the world's biggest poker prizes. To play in an Aussie Millions event you must be a Crown Club member, so register soon if you plan to buy in.
Community
Seeing the Sacred in Everyday Life - Lama Marut, a teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and founder and spiritual director of the Asian Classics Institute in Los Angeles, will be appearing at Thornbury's Prana House with lessons beginning this Sunday and running through until next Sunday. The seminars will offer advice on spiritual wellbeing and yoga.
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Every Sunday afternoon, soapbox orators (that means you if you have something to say) take turns speaking on various topics from differing viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or hear what others have to say.
Dynamic Drawing Classes, held by Ron Curran, can help you discover your creative identity and find your power through drawing. Classes take place every week on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings, held at Brunswick Street Gallery. Classes cost $18, with no need to book, and each class includes a model, music and facilitation provided on the day.
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..
The Great Australian Sunny Sizzle, presented by Interchange and held at Federation Square on 27th March, is a celebration to raise awareness of the needs of young people with a disability and their families. You can also hold a Sunny Sizzle BBQ at your workplace, school, sports club, or anywhere else, and help Interchange raise awareness of volunteering opportunities.
The Federation Square Book Market is held every Saturday from 11 am until 5 pm in Fed Square's Atrium. Each week, with around 15 independent and small booksellers, the market has nearly 5000 second-hand and new books covering a diverse range of interests including literature, history, gardening, travel, art, children's books and much more.
The Suzuki Night Market has returned to Queen Victoria Market, held weekly and running Wednesday nights through to February. Now a summer tradition, the Suzuki Night Market offers a great mix of unusual products, great food and atmosphere. The Suzuki Night Market offers a stunning mix of world food, eclectic wares, bars and even two stages showcasing the best live music!
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days (it's a coin toss lately, isn't it!) and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets 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!
This week we suggest the following:
Coconoir - Online gifts of fine chocolates and gift books...
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
Cricket
Boxing Day Test 2008 - The biggest event on Australian cricketing calendar begins this Friday with the Boxing Day Test match when Australia takes on South Africa.
Australia vs South Africa
Monday 29 & Tuesday 30 December - 10:30am
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
Saturday 3 January
Game starts at 7:30pm
Hisense Arena (Formerly Vodafone Arena)
Dining & Drink
Wining
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!!
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!
Free entry to over 60 top attractions..
Visit great venues like Zoos, museums & more across Melbourne & Victoria!
Over $800 of entry fees for ONE low price..
Plus special offers & discounts!
Visit just 2 Attractions a day & you'll save!
FREE 128 page guidebook..
Tailored to local knowledge on what to see & do!
Cash free entry..
Show your card & you're in, no need for cash!
All year-round Attractions..
Whatever time of year you visit - rain or shine!
Melburnian 'Mac' Robertson, regarded as the greatest entrepreneur and philanthropist in contemporary Australian History was the founder of confectionery company MacRobertson's, which gave us the tasty icons of the Cherry Ripe and Freddo Frog.
A philanthropist and flagrant self-promoter, Robertson funded Mawson's Antarctic expeditions and a series of international air races. There is even an area of Antarctica named after Melbourne's legendary confectionary wizard.
Sir Douglas Mawson named a part of the Antarctic Mac Robertson Land in honour of the great entrepreneur. It was a fitting landscape to pay tribute to the Melbourne icon, who wore white suits, painted his factories white, and even used white draught horses to pull his white carts.
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 December 29, 2008 - January 4, 2009.
This week.. it's the biggest night of the year this Wednesday as Melbourne gets set to ring in the new year with the City of Melbourne offering free events in six great locations across the city. And be sure to check our New Years guide for other great shindigs that you can get along to on the night. There's also the Peninsula Summer Music Festival beginning this Tuesday with seven days of special concerts and dining events.
And that's about it really.. In all, it's a quiet week as far as big events are concerned, but admit it, you've earned a quiet one after all the hustle and bustle of Christmas - especially if you went out and braved the Boxing Day sales!
There are sport details, special dining offers and info on upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
And don't forget, you can now view OnlyMelbourne from your mobile phone.. That's right! We now fit in your pocket, so please be sure not to leave us in the taxi on New Years Eve, and don't drop us in your beer! (A quick dip in Scotch would be welcome, though)
NEWSLETTER
Not receiving our newsletter? Get your copy of What's On this Week!
Melbourne On The Go
Mobile OnlyMelbourne - We're very pleased to announce that the OnlyMelbourne web site is now mobile compatible. To view our website, either go directly to our Melbourne home page with your web compatible phone, or Google what you're looking for and when you arrive at our web site, you'll automatically be taken to the mobile compatible version of OnlyMelbourne.
New Year's Eve
New Years Eve World Carnivale - New Years Eve this year is set to be bigger than ever before with a great night of free entertainment in Federation Square as Melbourne counts down to 2009. With the fun starting at 8pm, the night will include a fantastic range of performances, music and best of all fireworks, along with 5 other great city locations with free entertainment.
The Peninsula Summer Music Festival, beginning Tuesday, offers an exciting program that features eleven diverse concerts over seven long summer days and nights filled with world-class food, wine and music. Held in various venues in the Peninsula, including Mornington, Red Hill South, Merricks North and Sorrento it runs until next Monday.
Upcoming Events
Cricket Victoria will be hosting a Free Community Cricket Day for boys and girls aged 10 to 14, offering the chance to play with the Victorian Cricket players! Come and join in all the fun and activities on Wednesday 14th January at Preston Cricket Club. Highlights include autographs, prizes and giveaways mini cricket matches and special guest, Ned Ranger.
Registrations close 12th January
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 more.. View Future Events on any day of the week
(Broken resolutions notwithstanding!)
School Holiday Guide
Check out our School Holiday Guide for all the latest on what to do with the kids during the Summer School Holidays continuing through December and running until January 27 in 2009. The guide is Updated Weekly to highlight the best things to do over the holiday period for the young and young at heart, with events, tours and holiday care programs.. all in marvellous Melbourne!
Fairy Fanfare returns for the school holidays in Summer with a brand new twist and fabulous fairy antics for both boys and girls who can wave a wand and share in the magic! Dress up in your most fantastic costume and get ready to join in the song and dance fun. It begins this Friday and runs until January 17 with two shows daily at Fitzroy Gardens in East Melbourne.
Exhibitions - Art | Festival | Show
Speaking for the Ordinary Man, now showing at St Kilda's Jewish Museum of Australia, is an exhibition of sculptures by Charles Aisen, a tinsmith whose sculptures trace not only his own life journey but that of many Jews who settled in Australia. His touching works evoke the traditional world of pre-war Poland and the immigrant experience in Carlton.
Lucy Benson is currently holding an Open Studio exhibition of her work as a video artist and multimedia designer. Using her residency at Melbourne's Guildford Lane Gallery to develop new video work which will then be installed in the studio upon completion, she will be testing out work in progress in the space, as well as displaying a rotation of previous pieces.
The Water Hole is an exhibition by Swiss artists Gerda Steiner and Jörg Lenzlinger, who have created a stunning ecological fantasy-world in the main gallery of the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Bringing together made and found objects to create extravagant, magical installations that are full of allegory and beauty, the exhibition will run until March 1st, 2009.
Hocus Pocus - Science and physics become mere playthings as the world of magic, with all its baroque, buoyant charm, comes to City Museum. Proving that magic is in Melbourne's blood, the exhibition shows how our city has radiated with wonder and possibility since its streets were first paved with gold, featuring souvenirs, tools, artworks and more dating back to the 1850s.
Greenhouse by Joost is an Australian first in self-sustaining planning with this temporary event venue, currently open at Federation Square. Made entirely from recycled materials, Joost's Greenhouse will run until January and will be open daily as a gallery, cafe and social hub, while at night the unique venue will transform to become a vibrant hub to entertain the public.
Performances & Theatre
Grace, a collaboration between philosopher AC Grayling and theatre director Mick Gordon. Combining a powerful debate about faith with heartrending drama, the play sees scientist Grace Friedman become the country's most vocal advocate for atheism, while her own son becomes an Anglican priest. Performances start this Friday at the Arts Centre.
For The Good Times, presented by the Australian Pops Orchestra, is a spectacular star-studded New Year's Eve concert series, held this Tuesday and Wednesday at the Victorian Arts Centre's Hamer Hall. Compered by the entertaining Donald Cant, the concerts feature one of Australia's best jazz musicians James Morrison, along with Bernadette Robinson and other guests.
The Taming of the Shrew is a fun night of Shakespeare Under The Stars with Glenn Elston's wildly entertaining production of the Bard's classic play. A story of a relationship that starts with fire and brimstone but leads to deep love and admiration, performances are being held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, with shows then running from Tuesday to Sunday.
Billy Elliot the Musical is now playing at Her Majesty's Theatre. Based on the cult film, the stage production features music by Elton John and follows the journey of a young boy in a small mining town who stumbles across a ballet class while on his way to a boxing lesson, and realises that his future lies not in the boxing ring, as his father hoped, but on stage as a dancer.
Shane Warne the Musical is a leg-spun yarn about what it means to fall arse-backwards into the Australian Dream and emerge a champion. With a sizzling live band and an exceptional cast, including Eddie Perfect as the man himself, the show brings to life a brilliant score fusing soul, gospel, rock, and even a touch of Bollywood. It's currently playing at the Athenaeum Theatre.
The Rocky Horror Show brings Richard O'Brien's classic musical to the stage with the outrageous role of Dr Frank N Furter played by ARIA-nominated singer iota, who last gave a remarkable performance in Melbourne in the rock musical of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, the long time cult hit is now playing 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. When Dorothy famously triumphed in Oz, we only ever heard one side of the story. Now playing at the Regent Theatre, the creative team that brings the story to life includes many of Broadway's most celebrated talent.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Eli 'Paperboy' Reed & The True Loves will be appearing this Thursday on New Years Day at the Prince of Wales in St Kilda. With vocals and guitar supplied by Eli Reed, known to be an electrifying showman, the Boston-based soul band will be performing songs from their latest album 'Put on Roll With You'. On the night they will be supported by Mahalia Barnes.
Snob Scrilla will be performing this Friday at Roxanne Parlour in the city, along with Pez and supporting artists Alexx The Kidd and DJ Saucy. Based in Sydney, Snob Scrilla's style as a DJ artist, blending hip-hop with an Indie rock aesthetic, has earned him comparisons to such artists as Gnarls Barkley, with songs from his debut E.P 'The Day Before' played frequently on Triple J.
Cinema
The Rooftop Cinema flickers into action with film screenings held each week from Tuesday to Sunday. Screening everything from cult favourites to new releases and documentaries, it's the height of entertainment with screenings held on the rooftop of Curtin House, located in Swanston Street, offering night lights, classic cinema and the rooftop bar.
Moonlight Cinema is back, held at the Royal Botanic Gardens. With screenings running until March 15th, the open air cinema features a program that includes latest releases, contemporary films and cult classic movies. A great way to spend a night out with friends and family, you can bring your own picnic or purchase dinner and drinks at the cinema.
DinoStory | Sand Sculpting Exhibition - Sand Sculpting Australia will again present a special display at the Frankston Waterfront with their newest theme, DinoStory. Featuring the work of sculptors from Australia and overseas, the sand carvings will take the form of dinosaurs in stunning detail. The exhibition runs throughout the holidays.
The Wind in the Willows - Melbourne's favourite family entertainment is currently running, continuing its well-loved tradition of bringing the animals home to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Pack a picnic, pack the kids... and join Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and, of course, Mr Toad, as they bring to life Kenneth Grahame's immortal story of life on the riverbank.
Amazing Antarctica - Melbourne Aquarium's amazing new Antarctica exhibit is open during the summer school holidays, offering a completely unique experience as Australia's only venue to feature sub-Antarctic penguins. Don't miss the daily penguin feeds where the keepers will help you discover more about the daily life of the Aquarium's newest residents!
The Myer Christmas Windows, which have delighted families and kids for more than 50 years now, are displayed outside the Bourke Street store where you can now find this year's offering, inspired by Alan Snow's children's book, How Santa Really Works. A tradition that began in 1956, the marvellous Myer Christmas Windows display will be running until Sunday.
Circus Shows
Circus Sunrise Holiday Spectacular is an action-packed show for all the family, currently showing at Water Front City, located under the Southern Star Ferris Wheel. With special holiday shows held throughout the School Holidays, the circus will be presenting their Holiday Spectacular until January 26. Circus Sunrise is a true family circus with lineage going back to 1648!
Puzzles & Competitions
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of the famous Skipping Girl Vinegar Sign, found in Abbotsford... 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
Artz Blitz, held by Kingston Arts Centre is a 24-hour competition where entrants get the opportunity to create an artwork to a specific theme, exhibit in a dynamic exhibition and go into the running for over $3000 worth of prizes. With 180 places available for artists to pre-register, registrations close February 6 with the theme announced on 3RRR on later in February.
The Aussie Millions Poker Championship will be hitting Crown Casino next year in January, beginning 23 days of competition as poker players from the world over and across Australia try their hand (pun intended) at winning one of the world's biggest poker prizes. To play in an Aussie Millions event you must be a Crown Club member, so register soon if you plan to buy in.
Community
Seeing the Sacred in Everyday Life - Lama Marut, a teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and founder and spiritual director of the Asian Classics Institute in Los Angeles, will be appearing at Thornbury's Prana House with lessons beginning this Sunday and running through until next Sunday. The seminars will offer advice on spiritual wellbeing and yoga.
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Every Sunday afternoon, soapbox orators (that means you if you have something to say) take turns speaking on various topics from differing viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or hear what others have to say.
Dynamic Drawing Classes, held by Ron Curran, can help you discover your creative identity and find your power through drawing. Classes take place every week on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings, held at Brunswick Street Gallery. Classes cost $18, with no need to book, and each class includes a model, music and facilitation provided on the day.
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..
The Great Australian Sunny Sizzle, presented by Interchange and held at Federation Square on 27th March, is a celebration to raise awareness of the needs of young people with a disability and their families. You can also hold a Sunny Sizzle BBQ at your workplace, school, sports club, or anywhere else, and help Interchange raise awareness of volunteering opportunities.
The Federation Square Book Market is held every Saturday from 11 am until 5 pm in Fed Square's Atrium. Each week, with around 15 independent and small booksellers, the market has nearly 5000 second-hand and new books covering a diverse range of interests including literature, history, gardening, travel, art, children's books and much more.
The Suzuki Night Market has returned to Queen Victoria Market, held weekly and running Wednesday nights through to February. Now a summer tradition, the Suzuki Night Market offers a great mix of unusual products, great food and atmosphere. The Suzuki Night Market offers a stunning mix of world food, eclectic wares, bars and even two stages showcasing the best live music!
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days (it's a coin toss lately, isn't it!) and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets 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!
This week we suggest the following:
Coconoir - Online gifts of fine chocolates and gift books...
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
Cricket
Boxing Day Test 2008 - The biggest event on Australian cricketing calendar begins this Friday with the Boxing Day Test match when Australia takes on South Africa.
Australia vs South Africa
Monday 29 & Tuesday 30 December - 10:30am
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
Saturday 3 January
Game starts at 7:30pm
Hisense Arena (Formerly Vodafone Arena)
Dining & Drink
Wining
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!!
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!
Free entry to over 60 top attractions..
Visit great venues like Zoos, museums & more across Melbourne & Victoria!
Over $800 of entry fees for ONE low price..
Plus special offers & discounts!
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Melburnian 'Mac' Robertson, regarded as the greatest entrepreneur and philanthropist in contemporary Australian History was the founder of confectionery company MacRobertson's, which gave us the tasty icons of the Cherry Ripe and Freddo Frog.
A philanthropist and flagrant self-promoter, Robertson funded Mawson's Antarctic expeditions and a series of international air races. There is even an area of Antarctica named after Melbourne's legendary confectionary wizard.
Sir Douglas Mawson named a part of the Antarctic Mac Robertson Land in honour of the great entrepreneur. It was a fitting landscape to pay tribute to the Melbourne icon, who wore white suits, painted his factories white, and even used white draught horses to pull his white carts.
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
Mobile OnlyMelbourne - We're very pleased to announce that the OnlyMelbourne web site is now mobile compatible. To view our website, either go directly to our Melbourne home page with your web compatible phone, or Google what you're looking for and when you arrive at our web site, you'll automatically be taken to the mobile compatible version of OnlyMelbourne.
New Years Eve World Carnivale - New Years Eve this year is set to be bigger than ever before with a great night of free entertainment in Federation Square as Melbourne counts down to 2009. With the fun starting at 8pm, the night will include a fantastic range of performances, music and best of all fireworks, along with 5 other great city locations with free entertainment.
New Year's Eve - The year's almost been and gone already, and hasn't it snuck up quickly! With New Years Eve on Wednesday night, Melbourne will party hard on the biggest night of the year, so here's our guide how to count down the New Year into 2009..
NEW LIVE CALENDAR 
Check out our School Holiday Guide for all the latest on what to do with the kids during the Summer School Holidays continuing through December and running until January 27 in 2009. The guide is Updated Weekly to highlight the best things to do over the holiday period for the young and young at heart, with events, tours and holiday care programs.. all in marvellous Melbourne!
Hocus Pocus - Science and physics become mere playthings as the world of magic, with all its baroque, buoyant charm, comes to City Museum. Proving that magic is in Melbourne's blood, the exhibition shows how our city has radiated with wonder and possibility since its streets were first paved with gold, featuring souvenirs, tools, artworks and more dating back to the 1850s.
Greenhouse by Joost is an Australian first in self-sustaining planning with this temporary event venue, currently open at Federation Square. Made entirely from recycled materials, Joost's Greenhouse will run until January and will be open daily as a gallery, cafe and social hub, while at night the unique venue will transform to become a vibrant hub to entertain the public.
The Taming of the Shrew is a fun night of Shakespeare Under The Stars with Glenn Elston's wildly entertaining production of the Bard's classic play. A story of a relationship that starts with fire and brimstone but leads to deep love and admiration, performances are being held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, with shows then running from Tuesday to Sunday.
Billy Elliot the Musical is now playing at Her Majesty's Theatre. Based on the cult film, the stage production features music by Elton John and follows the journey of a young boy in a small mining town who stumbles across a ballet class while on his way to a boxing lesson, and realises that his future lies not in the boxing ring, as his father hoped, but on stage as a dancer.
Shane Warne the Musical is a leg-spun yarn about what it means to fall arse-backwards into the Australian Dream and emerge a champion. With a sizzling live band and an exceptional cast, including Eddie Perfect as the man himself, the show brings to life a brilliant score fusing soul, gospel, rock, and even a touch of Bollywood. It's currently playing at the Athenaeum Theatre.
The Rocky Horror Show brings Richard O'Brien's classic musical to the stage with the outrageous role of Dr Frank N Furter played by ARIA-nominated singer iota, who last gave a remarkable performance in Melbourne in the rock musical of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, the long time cult hit is now playing 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. When Dorothy famously triumphed in Oz, we only ever heard one side of the story. Now playing at the Regent Theatre, the creative team that brings the story to life includes many of Broadway's most celebrated talent.
The Rooftop Cinema flickers into action with film screenings held each week from Tuesday to Sunday. Screening everything from cult favourites to new releases and documentaries, it's the height of entertainment with screenings held on the rooftop of Curtin House, located in Swanston Street, offering night lights, classic cinema and the rooftop bar.
Moonlight Cinema is back, held at the Royal Botanic Gardens. With screenings running until March 15th, the open air cinema features a program that includes latest releases, contemporary films and cult classic movies. A great way to spend a night out with friends and family, you can bring your own picnic or purchase dinner and drinks at the cinema.
DinoStory | Sand Sculpting Exhibition - Sand Sculpting Australia will again present a special display at the Frankston Waterfront with their newest theme, DinoStory. Featuring the work of sculptors from Australia and overseas, the sand carvings will take the form of dinosaurs in stunning detail. The exhibition runs throughout the holidays.
The Wind in the Willows - Melbourne's favourite family entertainment is currently running, continuing its well-loved tradition of bringing the animals home to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Pack a picnic, pack the kids... and join Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and, of course, Mr Toad, as they bring to life Kenneth Grahame's immortal story of life on the riverbank.
Amazing Antarctica - Melbourne Aquarium's amazing new Antarctica exhibit is open during the summer school holidays, offering a completely unique experience as Australia's only venue to feature sub-Antarctic penguins. Don't miss the daily penguin feeds where the keepers will help you discover more about the daily life of the Aquarium's newest residents!
The Myer Christmas Windows, which have delighted families and kids for more than 50 years now, are displayed outside the Bourke Street store where you can now find this year's offering, inspired by Alan Snow's children's book, How Santa Really Works. A tradition that began in 1956, the marvellous Myer Christmas Windows display will be running until Sunday.
Circus Sunrise Holiday Spectacular is an action-packed show for all the family, currently showing at Water Front City, located under the Southern Star Ferris Wheel. With special holiday shows held throughout the School Holidays, the circus will be presenting their Holiday Spectacular until January 26. Circus Sunrise is a true family circus with lineage going back to 1648!
Artz Blitz, held by Kingston Arts Centre is a 24-hour competition where entrants get the opportunity to create an artwork to a specific theme, exhibit in a dynamic exhibition and go into the running for over $3000 worth of prizes. With 180 places available for artists to pre-register, registrations close February 6 with the theme announced on 3RRR on later in February.
The Aussie Millions Poker Championship will be hitting Crown Casino next year in January, beginning 23 days of competition as poker players from the world over and across Australia try their hand (pun intended) at winning one of the world's biggest poker prizes. To play in an Aussie Millions event you must be a Crown Club member, so register soon if you plan to buy in.
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Every Sunday afternoon, soapbox orators (that means you if you have something to say) take turns speaking on various topics from differing viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or hear what others have to say.
The Suzuki Night Market has returned to Queen Victoria Market, held weekly and running Wednesday nights through to February. Now a summer tradition, the Suzuki Night Market offers a great mix of unusual products, great food and atmosphere. The Suzuki Night Market offers a stunning mix of world food, eclectic wares, bars and even two stages showcasing the best live music!
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Boxing Day Test 2008 - The biggest event on Australian cricketing calendar begins this Friday with the Boxing Day Test match when Australia takes on South Africa.
Hyundai A League Soccer | 2008/09 Season 
South Dragons Home Game
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 
The Groove Train is the perfect mix of up-tempo trendy and relaxed retro, offering daily specials on bustling Clarendon Street.
