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The Advertiser
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
Todd McKenney steals show in CATS but true star is controversial: review
We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE.
The Irish Sun
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘Lost' scene from classic Only Fools & Horses episode emerges 29 YEARS later as scripts signed by David Jason unearthed
A "LOST" scene from a classic episode of Only Fools & Horses has emerged 29 years later. It was written into the script of the "Heroes & Villains" episode of 1996 but never made it into the Advertisement 7 The lost scene never made the final cut of the episode Credit: BBC Press Handout 7 It has been signed by several cast members and could fetch as much as £3,000 Credit: BNPS The Christmas special is better known for Del and Rodney dressing up as Batman and Robin to inadvertently thwart a mugging. But there was also an extended scene involving Del later chasing down a mugger and knocking him unconscious with his suitcase full of hooky gear. In the cut scene, it is scripted that a policeman then arrives and Del tells him "It's alright officer, I caught him, he's over there!" But the Advertisement Read more in TV The missing scene has emerged in a working script that belonged to the late Roger Lloyd Pack who played Trigger. The 155 page Auctioneer Andy Stowe described it as "comedy history, in black and white." Mr Stowe, a self-confessed Advertisement Most read in News TV Another scene written into the script that also never made it into the episode involves Del and Rodney rushing out of their flat just as a consignment of dodgy alarm clocks go off. They go to Del's Only Fools and Horses & Miami Vice star dies aged 78 after long illness Mr Stowe said the muggers - one of whom was played by the actress Sheree Murphy - appeared to have a whole The script has been signed by other members of the cast including David Jason, who played Advertisement It is estimated to sell for between £2,000 and £3,000. Lloyd Pack marked his lines with black ink. 7 The script is due to be sold at auction Credit: Getty Images - Getty 7 The lost lines were part of one of the show's Christmas specials Credit: BBC 7 Auctioneer Andy Stowe described the script as "comedy history, in black and white." Credit: BNPS Advertisement Mr Stowe said: "As a fan of the show myself, I was flicking through the script and began to read lines of dialogue that I didn't recognise. "As I carried on reading, I realised that these were scenes and lines that had been cut from the "One particular partial scene that has been discovered surrounds the end of the chase between Rodney and a mugger. "In the broadcast episode, Del Boy ends the chase by producing his suitcase from around a corner, knocking mugger unconscious. Advertisement "But, in the newly discovered script, this scene continues further. After the mugger is knocked down, a 7 Only Fools and Horses aired for 22 years, from 1981 to 2003. Credit: BBC 7 The script belonged to the late Roger Lloyd Pack Credit: Getty "The policeman walks over to the two men and arrests Rodney instead of the mugger. Advertisement "There are several scenes cut from the episode that focus on the plot of the muggers. "There was considerable work by the writer, John Sullivan, to establish the threat of them throughout the episode but most of these early scenes were cut from the final show. "To have Roger's actual script, with his lines marked within it, is really something special. "This is comedy history, in black and white on the page." Advertisement The vendor is a private collector who acquired the script from the The 1996 Christmas special was watched by a record 21 million people. The auctioneers say it as "comedy history in black and white on a page." The sale takes place on June 30. Only Fools and Horses' most memorable episodes The beloved sitcom only aired for seven series but is still adored to this date - here are fans' most memorable scenes from the BBC hit... Jolly Boys' Outing - The humorous episode was filled with disaster and also romance. It saw Del Boy, Rodney and Grandad leave Peckham for a day trip to Margate. However, their coach explodes, Rodney is arrested and Del Boy reunites with Raquel. Time on their Hands - The episode sees the Trotters reflect on their life in South London after finally becoming millionaires. Airing in 1996, it pulled in an incredible 24million viewers. A Touch of Glass - This unforgettable episode sees Del Boy and his chandelier cleaning service. In hilarious scenes, he and Rodney accidentally drop a chandelier, sending it crashing to the floor. Stage Fright - Raquel performs with Tony Angelino while pregnant to perform a duet - but she's unaware he has a speech impediment. Yuppy Love - Derek attempts to transform himself into a high-flyer, wearing a stripped shirt and red braces. It also sees Del fall through the bar, while Rodney meets Cassandra for the first time. Mother Nature's Son - Del Boy inherits an allotment from his grandad, but it's contaminated by a yellow substance. The Peckham Spring Water business is then born - but it's actually just tap water from Nelson Mandela House. Heroes and Villains - Del Boy and Rodney dress up as Batman and Robin for Harry Malcolm's party. However, Boycie forgot to mention Harry died, and it had become a wake! To Hull and Back - Del Boy is convinced to smuggle diamonds from The Netherlands. PC Roy Slater intercepts them before he's later arrested for corruption. It ends with Del throwing his £15k over the balcony thinking it was fake - when it was in fact real! The Russians are Coming - The threat of nuclear war looms over Peckham so the Trotters decide to batten down the hatches. They build a DIY war shelter - on the top of Mandela House. The Unlucky Winner Is - Rodney wins a holiday abroad after Del Boy entered him into a painting competition. However, when he lands in Spain Rodney discovers it's a prize for children and must pretend he's a 14-year-old child.
Sydney Morning Herald
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
The verdict on Hamilton Island's first new hotel in 18 years
Designer Carrie Williams, an island resident herself, has reimagined the rooms with a swirl of organic materials, soft curves and coastal tones from nautical blue to sandy beige. The '80s block, freshened with a minor facelift and new coat of peach and white, leans into its retro roots with a Palm Springs aesthetic that plays well with vibrant contemporary artworks by First Nations and Hungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. Newly landscaped terraced gardens flank the path down to the pool and restaurant – it will flourish into a mini rainforest soon enough. Greenery also factors prominently in Catseye Pool Club, thanks to yawning bi-fold doors that open to a lush lawn, and a long indoor planter dissecting the dining room with a burst of tropical plants. Outside, there's no shortage of sage-hued tables, cabana lounges and umbrella-shaded daybeds for those keen to test the poolside table service. The room Its 59 rooms are split over three levels, and while rooms are more or less identical, there are two main categories: balcony or terrace. I'm staying in a ground-floor terrace room, which can double as a connecting family room and includes an additional single bed at the foot of my king. A private terrace features a lounge, dining table and views of the big blue beyond. Now the fun part – rooms are designed with women in mind (gasp!). Mirrors are enormous and backlit, with two additional Hollywood-style bulbs in the ensuite (I can see every pore!), the vanity bench is double-sized, and oh, the hooks! By my count, eight. Brilliant. The pièce de résistance is a beautiful, giant egg-shaped bath (soaking salts included) with a sliding privacy screen (for optional TV-watching, we assume). The kitchenette is small but mighty, with a microwave, Nespresso machine, kettle and mini-fridge. A mini-bar has the kids (and big kids) covered, with no-sugar lollies and The Everleigh Bottling Co cocktails. You can order breakfast in bed via a TV menu QR-code (though my order doesn't go through on the first attempt). Over-packers are also well catered for with a wardrobe and long suitcase rack with built-in shoe storage drawers; twin yoga mats stashed in the closet are a nice touch. Food + drink Don't fight it – you'll be spending a lot of time by the pool, eating highly addictive souvas (souvlaki stuffed with grilled chicken or Berrima octopus, and stacked with salad, garlic yoghurt and crunchy fries), possibly while sipping a frosty Miami Vice slushy supercharged with rosella, condensed milk and fresh dragon fruit from the impressive native ingredient-driven cocktail list. On the days chef Niland isn't island-side doing his monthly check-ins, you're in good hands with head chef Brad Johnston, who trained under him at Saint Peter. The menu is kid-proof in concept – items like wood-fired pizza bread and wild fish tacos are served deconstructed for fussy eaters, and mains come packaged with a generous assortment of sides to streamline the task of ordering. The seafood is excellent (not exactly a shocker), but non-seafood dishes like whole roast chook with crunchy chicken fat potatoes are among the surprise standouts. In a trend that's catching on at many sustainably focused stays, breakfast is à la carte (meaning less waste). The kitchen's freshly baked croissants are already causing a stir on the island – it has management plotting moves to adopt the same exacting pastry-making approach at other venues. Out + about Watersports gear is free at neighbouring Beach Hut. And while restaurants, bars, retail outlets and scenic hikes abound, it's a great launchpad for some unique off-island experiences. The Journey to the Heart Tour, exclusive to island guests, whisks groups of up to six via helicopter to a private pontoon helipad near the iconic Heart Reef where you can explore the lagoon James Bond-style in glass-bottomed boat, snorkel with turtles and tropical fish, and sip champagne. A new cultural tour by local Ngaro man Robbie Congoo whisks you to Hook Island aboard a luxurious 55-foot motor yacht to view some of the oldest rock paintings and stone quarries in Eastern Australia. The verdict The Sundays might be for families, but with its star restaurant and stylishly luxe rooms, there's a case to be mounted that a stay here is a good idea regardless of parental status. While the Nilands won't be making a Whitsundays sea change anytime soon, their deep involvement in the venue has generated plenty of excitement among staff and visitors. Enough to coax kid-averse holidaymakers into its very stylish, family-friendly dining room? Absolutely. Essentials Our rating out of five ★★★★ Highlight Guests can exchange 'Mer-money' gold coins, deposited in rooms daily, for a free Sundays sundae between 2.30pm-4pm each day from a poolside cart. Cute. Lowlight Our beach-facing glass doors are soundproofed with black-out blinds – unfortunately, the entrance door lets in hallway noise and light via a transom window, with no recourse.
The Age
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Age
The verdict on Hamilton Island's first new hotel in 18 years
Designer Carrie Williams, an island resident herself, has reimagined the rooms with a swirl of organic materials, soft curves and coastal tones from nautical blue to sandy beige. The '80s block, freshened with a minor facelift and new coat of peach and white, leans into its retro roots with a Palm Springs aesthetic that plays well with vibrant contemporary artworks by First Nations and Hungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. Newly landscaped terraced gardens flank the path down to the pool and restaurant – it will flourish into a mini rainforest soon enough. Greenery also factors prominently in Catseye Pool Club, thanks to yawning bi-fold doors that open to a lush lawn, and a long indoor planter dissecting the dining room with a burst of tropical plants. Outside, there's no shortage of sage-hued tables, cabana lounges and umbrella-shaded daybeds for those keen to test the poolside table service. The room Its 59 rooms are split over three levels, and while rooms are more or less identical, there are two main categories: balcony or terrace. I'm staying in a ground-floor terrace room, which can double as a connecting family room and includes an additional single bed at the foot of my king. A private terrace features a lounge, dining table and views of the big blue beyond. Now the fun part – rooms are designed with women in mind (gasp!). Mirrors are enormous and backlit, with two additional Hollywood-style bulbs in the ensuite (I can see every pore!), the vanity bench is double-sized, and oh, the hooks! By my count, eight. Brilliant. The pièce de résistance is a beautiful, giant egg-shaped bath (soaking salts included) with a sliding privacy screen (for optional TV-watching, we assume). The kitchenette is small but mighty, with a microwave, Nespresso machine, kettle and mini-fridge. A mini-bar has the kids (and big kids) covered, with no-sugar lollies and The Everleigh Bottling Co cocktails. You can order breakfast in bed via a TV menu QR-code (though my order doesn't go through on the first attempt). Over-packers are also well catered for with a wardrobe and long suitcase rack with built-in shoe storage drawers; twin yoga mats stashed in the closet are a nice touch. Food + drink Don't fight it – you'll be spending a lot of time by the pool, eating highly addictive souvas (souvlaki stuffed with grilled chicken or Berrima octopus, and stacked with salad, garlic yoghurt and crunchy fries), possibly while sipping a frosty Miami Vice slushy supercharged with rosella, condensed milk and fresh dragon fruit from the impressive native ingredient-driven cocktail list. On the days chef Niland isn't island-side doing his monthly check-ins, you're in good hands with head chef Brad Johnston, who trained under him at Saint Peter. The menu is kid-proof in concept – items like wood-fired pizza bread and wild fish tacos are served deconstructed for fussy eaters, and mains come packaged with a generous assortment of sides to streamline the task of ordering. The seafood is excellent (not exactly a shocker), but non-seafood dishes like whole roast chook with crunchy chicken fat potatoes are among the surprise standouts. In a trend that's catching on at many sustainably focused stays, breakfast is à la carte (meaning less waste). The kitchen's freshly baked croissants are already causing a stir on the island – it has management plotting moves to adopt the same exacting pastry-making approach at other venues. Out + about Watersports gear is free at neighbouring Beach Hut. And while restaurants, bars, retail outlets and scenic hikes abound, it's a great launchpad for some unique off-island experiences. The Journey to the Heart Tour, exclusive to island guests, whisks groups of up to six via helicopter to a private pontoon helipad near the iconic Heart Reef where you can explore the lagoon James Bond-style in glass-bottomed boat, snorkel with turtles and tropical fish, and sip champagne. A new cultural tour by local Ngaro man Robbie Congoo whisks you to Hook Island aboard a luxurious 55-foot motor yacht to view some of the oldest rock paintings and stone quarries in Eastern Australia. The verdict The Sundays might be for families, but with its star restaurant and stylishly luxe rooms, there's a case to be mounted that a stay here is a good idea regardless of parental status. While the Nilands won't be making a Whitsundays sea change anytime soon, their deep involvement in the venue has generated plenty of excitement among staff and visitors. Enough to coax kid-averse holidaymakers into its very stylish, family-friendly dining room? Absolutely. Essentials Our rating out of five ★★★★ Highlight Guests can exchange 'Mer-money' gold coins, deposited in rooms daily, for a free Sundays sundae between 2.30pm-4pm each day from a poolside cart. Cute. Lowlight Our beach-facing glass doors are soundproofed with black-out blinds – unfortunately, the entrance door lets in hallway noise and light via a transom window, with no recourse.
The Irish Sun
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Dunnes Stores fans rushing to buy dreamy new phone case dupe – and it's €41 cheaper
DUNNES Stores fans are rushing to buy a dreamy new phone case dupe with a cool feature - and it's €41 cheaper. The new lip gloss phone case is now available for just €5. 3 Rebecca Whiteley shared the new dupe to her TikTok @beccawhiteley Credit: 3 Choose from the pink or grey to add some luxury to your phone this summer Credit: 3 Better yet get the matching gloss for just €5 for four different shades Credit: Fans have been desperately searching for a copy of the phone case and Rebecca Whiteley shared her excitement for the new product in a recent video on her TikTok. She said: "I couldn't believe my eyes, some Rhode cases for a fraction of the price." Many of READ MORE ON FASHION Another fan echoed "They're unreal." The Irish retailer released their own version of the famous Rhode Skin phone case for a fraction of the price at just €5. Choose from the pink or grey to add some luxury to your phone this summer. And better yet, they have four lip tints for just €5 to go with your new gloss case dupe. Most read in Fabulous Pick your favorite with vanilla, cherry, strawberry and coconut. The Dunnes Stores fans go wild for NEW must-have summer staples This new dreamy dupe is available And Dunnes Stores have got you covered this festival season from The new Helen Steele Print Half Zip Micro Fleece is just €30. The official funky 'Miami Vice' all-over print works for layering over activewear or everyday casual wear. Keep your phone, keys or even drinks safe this festival season in the pockets at the front of the half zip. The Irish has sizes ranging from XS to XL. Do the dreaded walk from tent to carrying stuff with the new calf biker boots for just €35. The buckle design and black leather look is perfect for pairing with any concert outfit this summer. Sizes range from 37 to 42 but shoppers will have to be quick as both 39 and 40 are sold out online. All these festival staples are also available in stores across the country. THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit. Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland's first 'shopping frenzy'. During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne's 'Better Value' bargains. Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 - starting with apples and oranges. The retailer said: "Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town. "Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong. "Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas." The retailer's first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960. They added: "In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed. "Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England." Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.
