Metro Hotels

Sunday, December 30, 2012

New Years Eve in Sydney: Unstoppable Kylie Comes Home and Embraces Sydney



IF we were just counting down Kylie Minogue's greatest hits it would probably take all New Year's night. 

There's her 25 years in the music industry, the odd concert or two for the Queen's Jubilee, an Abbey Road Sessions album and a starring role in French indie film Holy Motors. So "coming home" to play host and creative ambassador for Sydney's NYE party will be the sparkling finish to 2012 this unstoppable diva deserves.

Charged with hitting the button on the fireworks, Minogue says the spectacular is the perfect end to a personal year of highs.

"It's been a huge year for me and the finish line is New Year's Eve and I will definitely be trying to find a moment in the madness to really appreciate everything I've done this year and what an amazing year it's been to share with fans," she said.

The 44-year-old has vowed to take the "embrace" theme literally, planning a midnight hug with model boyfriend Andre Velencoso, who has flown in to share in the festivities.

She has posted several photos on Twitter since arriving in Sydney on Friday, including a visit to Bondi's Icebergs. She said she has been spruiking her role since agreeing to the gig.

"Honestly, I've been so excited about coming home since I first signed up for the project which was a year ago, so here I am, and now it's a reality and it's so exciting," she said.

Channel 9's coverage, from the Lord Mayor's party at the Sydney Opera House, starts at 8.30pm (family fireworks) and includes 11.30pm (midnight countdown) with performances by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Darren Percival.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Sydney Festival Fun Run Has An '80s Flavour


THE Sydney Festival will bring the city back to the '80s for day one of its opening Fun Run.

In an ode to the Greek messenger Pheidippides - who ran 42.2km to Athens without stopping - performance artist Tristan Meecham, AKA Humps, will attempt to run a marathon on a treadmill dressed in tight Lycra shorts and gold sneakers to a soundtrack with visual effects.

Joining Humps for the January 5 event at Hyde Park will be an entourage of cheer squads including members of Redfern-based '80s aerobics group, Physique Aerobics.

Founder Kirk Docker said his team's job will be to ensure the crowd's spirits are keep high during the gruelling on-stage marathon.

"In terms of the Fun Run we have been asked to be part of the different community groups that participate on the day and help rev up the crowds," Mr Docker said.

"From footage of marathons I have seen it takes considerable time to run the marathon so we will be keeping the crowd's energy up and keeping them interested with a bunch of classic '80s aerobics moves."

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

The Images You Can't Take Of An Australian Icon

While the journey up to the top isn't for the faint-hearted, it's incredible, especially considering there are few bridges around the world you can climb to the top of.
We begin by walking a plank underneath the roadway and scaling a series of steep staircases. We duck and weave along the path at times as it narrows and then opens up to a spectacular view of the Opera House around a corner.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

View from one of the staircases. Picture: Kate Schneider
 
This corner is the point of the climb where our guide Bernie, 13 years ago, decided he wanted to do many, many more climbs. It's easy to see why.
It's also the part where those with a fear of heights really struggle. There's a section of wire-mesh catwalk where the ground is visible a long way down, giving a dizzying feeling.
Some push on with help from their guides, others simply cannot.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

 This is the section of the climb where those with a fear of height can struggle. Picture: Kate Schneider
 
Continuing the climb, the roar of the traffic grows loader as you get closer to the roadway, and the bridge vibrates.
For most, nerves quickly turned to excitement and exhilaration upon stepping onto the lower part of the bridge and spotting the curved arches soaring high above, taking on the appearance of a rollercoaster.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
View of the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the climb. Picture: Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
 
We scaled the highest arch past the pylons. The arches can rise or fall 18 centimetres with heating or cooling.
It's a riveting climb - six million rivets hold the bridge together, to be precise.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

View of the roadway down below. Picture: Kate Schneider
 
Standing up there with the wind rushing past you, traffic zipping by underneath you and a 360 degree view of Sydney like no other, including the Opera House, you really feel like you're on top of the world.
The water below was teeming with boats, including two massive cruise ships. One of them sailed underneath the bridge while blaring the hit song Gangnam Style, providing a unique view of a cruise liner, including the pools and people partying on the top deck.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

A cruise ship passes underneath the bridge. Picture: Kate Schneider
 
We took a moment to sit down near the top and soak in the atmosphere.
Now I know what they mean by the "climb of your life".
It's easy to see why more than 4000 couple have gotten engaged during the climb – it really makes you feel alive.
The bridge was officially opened in 1932 and the first climb took place in 1998 (10 years in the making). Sixteen men died building it.

Sydney Harbour Heliport Plan Has Us All Spinning


THE State Government only has itself to blame with the furore created by the planned helipad in Sydney Harbour.

By springing the plan on residents unannounced and with a complete lack of consultation, the government and the bureaucrats have achieved the opposite of what they intended. They have hardened opposition to the proposal from the get-go.

Most Sydneysiders, I would argue, look relatively positively on new tourism infrastructure and have an open mind about developments that might help grow the economy.

But the sudden nature of this announcement last month has got people worried. Why weren't we told about this? Are there special interests at play?

Revelations in the Courier that local MPs and the owners of the Sydney Seaplanes operation had not been consulted about the plan prompt locals to assume the worst.

If air traffic issues have not been canvassed - which one would have thought would be a threshold issue - then clearly the State Government has not done its homework.

In a gutsy tweet this week, Wentworth MP Malcolm Turnbull called the approval "reckless and undemocratic" and said Premier Barry O'Farrell should rescind it.

The incident does the government's reputation no favours, particularly in a year which saw a major accounting error in the budget and the uncalled-for "dual roles" legislation.

In 2011, the people of NSW rose up to elect a government which would make its decisions with fairness and transparency.

This ain't it.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

New Years Eve in Sydney: ‘Fireworks’ From a Million Phones to Light up 2012 Sydney New Year’s Eve


Kylie Minogue and the City of Sydney are encouraging more than one million people on the harbour for Sydney New Year’s Eve to take part in a world-first NYE interactive colour light show.
The City and Telstra have developed a free smartphone app that will light up phone screens as coloured lights splash the Sydney Harbour Bridge to mark the end of 2012 and launch of 2013.
The synchronised Telstra Colour Moments – at 10.15pm, 11pm, 11.30pm and 11.45pm – will build excitement as the clock ticks closer to midnight, and app users will be reminded to hold their phones to the sky to be part of the celebration, as the harbour is transformed into a sea of colour.
NYE12 Creative Ambassador Kylie Minogue has worked with the City and Imagination Australia, and chosen magenta, yellow, purple and blue for the Telstra Colour Moments and fireworks, representing her Embrace theme.
“This year I want everyone to embrace during the fireworks,” Kylie said.
“Whether it’s embracing new ideas, change and opportunities, or just giving a big hug to your family and friends, it’s something everyone can get involved in. So together, we are going to make this New Year’s Eve the most memorable night ever.”
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said she was looking forward to the harbour foreshore filling with colour and excitement on New Year’s Eve.
“If you are going to watch the fireworks from one of the many vantage points around Sydney Harbour, plan ahead and download this free phone app,” the Lord Mayor said.
“The app lets you take part in the biggest interactive light show on Sydney Harbour – we hope it might even set a new Australian record for audience participation.
“The app will have useful information, including vantage point maps and updates about when different locations have reached capacity, as well as news feeds to keep up-to-date on the latest developments.”
The Lord Mayor said this year’s NYE charity partner, The Fred Hollows Foundation, was particularly appropriate as they have spent 20 years restoring the sight of millions of people around the world.
“The Fred Hollows Foundation does inspiring work. Over the past two decades they have given countless people back their sight,” the Lord Mayor said.
“For $25 you can restore someone’s vision and let them see their family and friends as we all begin a new year.”
Kylie Minogue worked with the City and Imagination Australia to develop the theme, colour scheme and music for NYE12, and said Embrace was a “wonderfully inclusive theme” that was close to her heart.
“Embrace is all about acceptance, tolerance, fun and, above all, love,” Kylie said.
“In a city of great diversity we come together at New Year’s Eve to embrace the future and celebrate all that we are and the potential that tomorrow holds.
“It’s also about that magical moment at midnight when we throw our arms around the people we love and express our happiness.”
Kylie’s theme is represented by the Embrace icon ─ a swirl of coloured sails in magenta, yellow, purple and red, which is marked with her signature K.
Embrace also has four subthemes: Embrace Love, Embrace Sydney, Embrace the Possibility and Embrace the Moment, which are Kylie’s most important things to hold onto during 2012 Sydney New Year’s Eve.
The Telstra Colour Moments:
10.15pm: The magenta colour moment will represent the Embrace Love subtheme and will be accompanied by a firework shaped like a heart.
11pm: It will be followed by the yellow colour moment, Embrace Sydney, which will see a firework shaped like a sun shimmer over the city.
11.30pm: The Embrace the Possibility colour moment will be accompanied by a butterfly taking flight from Sydney Harbour Bridge and morphing into a purple firework.
11.45pm: The final Embrace the Moment effect will see a huge aquamarine starburst firework light up the night, building anticipation for the 12-minute Midnight Fireworks display.
Apart from the interactive light show, the app will also allow people to ‘Message the Bridge’ by submitting some words, which could be projected onto one of the Sydney Harbour Bridge pylons.
Telstra is also offering a free ‘Midnight Messages’ service, during which app users can send up to 50 ‘Happy New Year’ text messages to their family and friends.
App users simply need to upload their messages before 6pm on Monday 31 December, and the texts will be automatically sent at midnight.




To download the NYE12 smartphone app, visit www.sydneynewyearseve.com/app
or search your app store for ‘Sydney New Year’s Eve’. 


Twitter: #NYESYD sydneynewyearseve.com/media-centre

(Source: sydneymedia.com.au)

Australian Hotels Prepare for Boom in Bookings in Lead Up To Ashes - Metro Hotels


With an estimated 37,000 international visitors heading to Australia for the Ashes test series this time next year, tickets to the matches aren't the only things in high demand.

Australia is set to battle England on home soil for the Ashes, with the first Test starting at The Gabba in Brisbane on November 21, 2013 and the 5th Test finishing in Sydney on January 7, 2014. The five Test series is expected to be a boom for local tourism operators. 

According to Metro Hotels' Chief Operating Officer, George Bedwani, the Group has already experienced a huge demand for hotel accommodation in all cities where the tests are being held.

"Metro Hotels' in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney started receiving bookings from both agents and individuals as early as the day after England regained the Ashes in the 2010/2011 series," he said.
"Bookings are already extremely strong, especially group bookings, despite the series not commencing for another 12 months."

The Ashes is one of the most famous sporting rivalries in the history of the sport, and certainly cricket's oldest and most fiercely fought competition.

After England's 3-1 win in the 2010-11 Ashes Series, the 2013-14 Tour is already setting itself up to be another historic showdown, with England looking to continue their winning streak and the Aussies fired up to win back the urn.

In addition to the test matches, there will also be five one-day internationals and three Twenty20 matches between Australia and England.

With 13 properties across Australia, Metro Hospitality Group is the country's oldest Australian owned hotel chain. The Group offers a range of 4-star hotels and apartments in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Gladstone, with the same affordable, quality, centrally located accommodation and friendly service common to all Metro properties Australia-wide.

*2013-14 Ashes series
  • 1st Test - Thursday 21 to 25 November 2013, The Gabba - Brisbane
  • 2nd Test - Thursday 5 to 9 December 2013, Adelaide Oval - Adelaide
  • 3rd Test - Friday 13 to 17 December 2013, WACA Ground - Perth
  • 4th Test - Thursday 26 to 30 December 2013, MCG - Melbourne
  • 5th Test - Friday 3 to 7 January 2014, SCG - Sydney
Guests are able to book at all Metro Hotels properties by calling the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321. Alternatively bookings can be made online at www.metrohotels.com.au.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Dugongs Treated With a Lettuce Christmas Tree at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium


SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s resident dugong, Wuru, today celebrated Christmas early as she indulged in an edible Christmas tree constructed entirely from her favourite food – lettuce leaves. Pig and Wuru are two of only six dugongs on display anywhere in the world.
The cos lettuce leaves replicate the sole food dugongs consume in their natural environment – seagrass; and between the two of them, they consume up to 1,500kg of iceberg lettuce leaves a week – totaling up to $140,400 worth of lettuce a year.

Weighing in at around 3kg, the tree was constructed by a variety of sizes of cos lettuce leaves and involved two SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium team members threading lettuce for over four hours. To top it off, the impressive edible sculpture was adorned with festive baubles made of apples.
Under the close supervision and care of Andrew Barnes, Dugong Keeper, both Pig and Wuru have been transitioning smoothly back into their new home, Dugong Island, which was refurbished as part of a 9 month, $10M overhaul that saw the attraction relaunch as SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium this September.

Andrew Barnes, Dugong Keeper at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium commented: “While it may seem rather dull in comparison to an indulgent, brandy-soaked fruit cake, our dugongs certainly love their cos lettuce leaves, and so we couldn’t think of anything more suitable than a lettuce tree this Christmas”.

Listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), both Pig and Wuru were orphaned in the wild in QLD, arrived in 2008 and took up residence in a purpose-built exhibit. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium actively contributes to dugong research and supports the University of Queensland with their annual assessment of the health of wild dugong populations.

The animals’ spectacular new home has a viewing platform from above, which allows guests to view Pig, Wuru and the other residents of Dugong Island from above sea-level. Much like SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s other grand Oceanarium Shark Valley; Dugong Island contains an ocean-tunnel walkthrough that delves deep into the underwater world, giving visitors the chance to come face-to-fin with these beautiful, friendly creatures of the sea.

Located in the heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour, visitors to the recently refurbished SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium will be taken on a journey of amazing discovery through 14 newly-themed areas, including the new Shark Walk,Tropical Bay of Rays, Discovery Rockpool, Mangrove Swamps, South Coast Shipwreck, Dugong Island and the stunning new ocean tunnel walk-through, Shark Valley.

For more information on the newly relaunched SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, please visit: www.sydneyaquarium.com.au

What: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour (right next door to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and Madame Tussauds Sydney)
Opening hours: 9am – 8pm daily. Last admission 7pm
Cost: Walk-up price – Adults: $36, Children (4-15yrs): $20
For the best value, combine SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium with a pick and mix of your other favourite Sydney attractions including WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds Sydney, Sydney Tower Eye and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary. The more you see, the more you save.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Sydney's Best Public Christmas Display's


The Christmas tree outside Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital
Another festive season is upon us Sydney. I know Pitt Street Mall was a construction site for almost two years, and just before Westfield Sydney was born at Christmas almost two years ago now. My my the time has flown. Before the original death of Pitt Street Mall, the Christmas decorations around this shopping precinct used to be stunning. Not anymore.


At the top of the Swarovski Christmas tree at QVB

So therefore, where is Sydney's best public Christmas display? The nativity scene (sure, not a Christmas tree yet is still a public Christmas display) at the windows of David Jones on the corner of Elizabeth and Market Streets is a historical treasure. Both the young and the not so young (maybe the young at heart) stop by, morning, noon and night to view the spectacular nativity scene and the moving characters with Christmas carol tunes like they're about to go out of fashion. With a camera in tow it is easy to take happy snaps of every single Christmas window at David Jones in the city.

david jones city
The nativity scene at the David Jones Christmas windows in the city

On the other hand, the Swarovski Christmas tree at the Queen Victoria Building is a delight again. Tomorrow, as at the time of writing this; the Swarovski Christmas tree will compliment the beautiful Swarovski crystal garden. This is where santa pays a visit at level 2. The sparkles and the sheer size of this tree makes the Swarovski Christmas tree one of the best public Christmas displays in Sydney. Many locals and tourists take pictures of each other in front of the tree from any floor at this opulent shopping space. Sydney is also looking forward to the crystal garden opening tomorrow, and again as at the time of writing this for 2012. A fun, Christmas sanctuary awaits.

david jones city
More glimpses of the David Jones Christmas windows - reflection

It is rare for any hospital to have a Christmas tree outside its main entrance. Despite being a place for healing and rest, many people would not expect a Christmas tree to be perched in front of a busy medical institution. However, things are different at St Vincent's Hospital at Darlinghurst. Although the decorations look plain, however taking into account the artistic thought that went into the blending of the gold and silver decorations is captivating. The tree stands proud in a well maintained garden. If you find yourself eating your lunch, or perhaps just sitting down on the lawn somewhere at the park across the road, it is great to be able to see a massive tree of life opposite you.


Another public Christmas display in Sydney City

Monday, December 3, 2012

Top Sydney Festivals in December

  Apart from the fun, festive Christmas celebrations that are guaranteed to rock Sydney, there are a number of quality festivals on to see out the final month of 2012. If this is anything to go by, Sydney will be in for a fantastic 2013. 

mud run
Image: Mud Run Sydney website

For Some Family Fun...

Then you're in luck with the Coogee Family Fun Day that kicks off on the 1st of December at Goldstein Reserve at Coogee Beach. Expect an array of 80 different market stalls, yoga classes, a free petting zoo with special appearances from Santa and over five hours of live performances, including the Scooby Doo Ghostology Show. Further information on this event can be found by clicking here.

I am feeling a bit sporty, and in need of a challenge...

The annual Bridge to Bridge Water Ski race from Dangar Island to Windsor spans 112kms along the length of the Hawkesbury River. The qualifying event is on the 1st of December, while the finals are on the 2nd of December. Furthermore, you might have remembered the game of 'stuck in the mud' while at primary school. Let's take that to another level and literally get stuck and run in the mud. If you like TV shows such as Double Dare and It's a Knockout with a knack for adventure, then put on your oldest running shoes and get prepared and get wet and muddy for the annual Mud Run at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park. Known as the best fun you can have with your pants on, and within good reason too. Twists and turns with hill climbs and mud jumping are also included in the program. Of course, the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race starts on boxing day.

Give me some fast beats at Olympic Park...

Your wish is my command. In addition to Homebake, Bass Control is on yet again. Hard core dance for a new generation of dancers, and is guaranteed to break a sweat. Outdoor rides, promo girls, market stalls and chill out areas are also provided.

Can I buy some crafts for Christmas?

With the Hornsby Craft Fair on the 13th of December, you most certainly can. Special baby clothes, toys and gifts are available to purchase. The organisers promise that the items on sale here cannot be purchased in any shopping centre. Held quarterly at the Hornsby RSL.

What about that major Christmas Carols event in the city?

Oh yes, the Carols in the Domain is on yet again. A variety of musical entertainment will be on for the whole family. Arrive as early as you can. Why? The Domain gets crowded really quickly at this popular annual event. Showbags are only around $10 containing over $100 worth of groceries. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit and help charities such as The Salvation Army simultaneously.

Furthermore, there will be a number of other Christmas and New Years Eve events on to see out the last month of 2012 in Sydney as well. Another top suburban Christmas event is the Carols at Burwood Park. This article has been designed for adults in mind for many of these festivals. For assistance in sourcing out a number of kid friendly events, you're more than welcome to click here to read and discover more. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Sydney.

Free Christmas on the Green @ Hyde Park

Pack a picnic and make a night of it

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Christmas on the Green, a great night for kids at Christmas

Christmas on the Green is traditionally one of the high points of the Christmas calendar for those with young children in Sydney, and 2012 is set to be no different - in fact, it's going to be a cracker. As in past years, Hyde Park will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland - the perfect space for families with younger children to settle down with a picnic and get the festive season off to a fantastic start.

Kids' favourite Jimmy Giggle will be host the night, but there will be entertainment from all sorts of familiar faces, such as Peppa Pig, Mumble and Gloria from Happy Feet Two, and Jay Laga'aia from Playschool. Musical entertainment will be provided by children's entertainment act Electric Lunchbox, the Australian Girl's Choir and Jay Laga'aia will also doing a few songs too.

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Jimmy Giggle (sans Hoot) will host Christmas on the Green in Hyde Park. image: ABC

The whole event will be interactive, with songs and actions that the kids can join in with, as well as craft activities that they can take part in. For those who aren't keen on packing a picnic, there will also be a sausage sizzle and delicious gelato on sale. If you want a memento of the night (and to start the Christmas gift giving early), a limited number of showbags will available for a $2 donation - the proceeds go to the Australian Children's Music Foundation charity.

Of course, no Christmas kids event would be complete without Santa, so as if all the other activities are not enough, Santa will also be making an appearance, along with the Lord Mayor, having just lit the lights at Martin Place. He'll be wishing everyone a happy Christmas, and making sure that the boys and girls are going to be good before the big day.

The night's activity will end with a spectacular fireworks display, especially designed for kids.

This event gets pretty busy, so it's wise to get there a little early to get a good spot. Spread out your rug, unpack your snacks, and settle in for the duration, it's going to be a jolly good time.

Simple Minds, Devo, The Church - Sydney Entertainment Centre Friday 7th December 2012


They defined a generation, are revered by critics and adored by fans. In an epic career spanning 30 years and more than 60 million albums sold, Simple Minds travelled from the streets of Glasgow to become one of the world’s biggest bands with a musical majesty that still inspires awe.

Devo’s pioneering sound, style and philosophy had a profound effect on the new wave movement. Influential, subversive and downright entertaining, Devo’s cult status quickly spread to the mainstream.

In what promises to be one of the most captivating tours of the year, Simple Minds and Devo will perform indoor shows and the popular a day on the green winery series later this year.

Joining them, and adding another highlight to savour, will be one of Australia’s finest, the church. Simple Minds, Devo and the church all in one night – now that’s what we call a concert not to be missed!

The tour is the first announcement for the next a day on the green summer season, the event’s 12th year. Eclectic 80s popsters Models, led by Sean Kelly, will open all a day on the green shows.

Simple Minds has had a lengthy love affair with Australia since tasting success here for the first time anywhere in the world with their first hit single ‘Love Song’ and first Gold album ‘New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)’. A stellar array of hits followed like ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’, ‘Alive and Kicking’, ‘Love Song’, ‘Promised You A Miracle’, ‘Glittering Prize’ and ‘Waterfront’ spanning eight Top 20 albums.
Lead vocalist Jim Kerr says: “Australia holds a very special place in the heart of Simple Minds. It was the first country anywhere in the world to embrace our music and we have wonderful memories of the tours we’ve done. We’re extremely excited about playing in Australia again.”

In the live concert arena, Simple Minds have few peers. This is a band that has played countless sold out stadium tours including three times at Wembley stadium, has been voted the prestigious Q Magazine’s ‘World’s Best Live Act’ and has retained an enviable reputation as one of THE great live concert bands.

Simple Minds commence a lengthy European tour in late June in support of their just released box set “Simple MindsX5” which features their ground-breaking first five albums ‘Life in a Day’, ‘Real to Real Cacophony’, ‘Empires and Dance’, ‘Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call’ and ‘New Gold Dream (81–82–83–84)’ as well as a bonus disc of rare and previously unavailable B-sides and remixes.
According to the UK Guardian Newspaper “Simple Minds are suddenly alive and kicking again” whilst the Metro says: “It’s official, Simple Minds are cool again.”

There’s no denying the influence Devo – brothers Mark and Bob Mothersbaugh and Gerald and Bob Casale - have exercised over a new generation of artists. Invitations to play the Livid Festival (1997) and Splendour In The Grass (2008) on past Australian sojourns is testimony to their currency with music fans.

Devo was an extension of a multi-media exploration of the concept that mankind's progress had ceased, and the process of de-evolution had begun. Their early work from the visionary debut ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo’ caught the attention of such icons as Brian Eno and David Bowie, and with hits like ‘Whip It’ and ‘Girl U Want’ and the accompanying revolutionary music videos, the group became one of the defining acts of the 1980s.

Devo’s surrealist and highly innovative stage shows have been an influence on artists from Rage Against the Machine to Lady Gaga. Kurt Cobain once said, "Of all the bands who came from the underground and actually made it in the mainstream, Devo is the most challenging and subversive of all."

In 2010 Devo released their first album in 20 years ‘Something For Everyone’ and have re-ignited their passion for live performance They are about to tour the US with Blondie so will be in fine form when they hit Australian shores again. DEVOtees..... expect the unexpected!
Having recently celebrated their 30th anniversary, the church continue to redefine what it is to be a band, evolving without compromise.

From the debut album ‘Of Skins and Heart’ through to 2009′s lush, organic masterpiece ‘Untitled #23’, lead vocalist and bassist Steve Kilbey, guitarists Peter Koppes and Marty Willson-Piper and drummer Tim Powles (now an active member of the band for 17 years), continue to pleasure their fans with a combination of chemistry, talent and a desire for excellence, unique and distinctive guitar sounds and thought-provoking lyrics.

Models induction into the 2010 ARIA Hall Of Fame was recognition of the status this pioneering Melbourne band has always held. Led by Sean Kelly and James Freud and emerging from the post new wave scene, Models’ produced ground-breaking albums ‘The Pleasure Of Your Company’ and ‘Out Of Mind Out Of Sight’. Kelly has continued to work as a producer and performer with his solo combo and leading various Models reunions.

 Sydney Entertainment Centre Friday 7th December 2012



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