The Stew - Issue One [Grapeshot Magazine]

DRINK

Manly Wine by Gazebo

This little bar is picture-perfect and an immaculate spot to start letting any night slip away. Glasses of wine start at $7, which isn’t too bad given the panoramic views of Manly Beach and spunky bodies that swarm the location. If you’re after a little something to delight the tummy, I don’t think you can go past the Rocket, Parmesan, Pine Nut & Grapefruit Salad ($11) and the Double Chocolate Brownie with Fairy Floss & Ice-Cream ($13) to follow. Delish. But I’d get down to this trendy, relaxed slice of heaven before the sunshine slips away.

www.manlywine.com.au


WATCH
Breaking Bad

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not usually into blood, guts, drugs and guns but, for some reason, this show really seems to keep me on the edge of the couch. It’s been nominated for and won a plethora of awards so I’m obviously not the only one who digs it. The story is as heart wrenching as they come, at first anyway: Walt is a chemistry teacher and a father of two who is diagnosed with cancer and given a short time to live. Sad. But in order to provide for his family after he kicks the bucket, he decides to start making methamphetamine with Jesse, the local drop-kick, and quickly becomes a kingpin of the drug trade. Go figure. All at once, Breaking Bad is unbearable to watch but impossible to take your eyes off. And lucky for you, all three seasons are available on iTunes so you can catch up before Season Four hits our screens in March.

RELISH

In the night sky.

Now, before you start gagging and accusing me of being some kind of cheesy romantic, take a step outside tonight and look up. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Did you know that you can actually see Mars from your balcony or backyard on any given night? And, what’s more, gazing at the night sky is free, environmentally friendly and those twinkle twinkles aren’t going anywhere any time soon. Of course, as with most things, the experience will always be made more enjoyable if accompanied by some kind of alcoholic substance, a good nosh and a buddy.

EAT

Zooper Doopers


Boasting the coolest taste in the universe, these icy-cold treats still tickle the tastebuds as perfectly as they did back when they were cool in primary school. In eight cosmic flavours and at a mere 20c each, Zooper Doopers sure are your friends in the freezer. My favourite flavour is Toffee Apple Taser. What’s yours?

www.zooperdooper.com.au

READ

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson


I know, I know – I’m way behind the times here. But I am hugely reluctant to pick up a book just because everyone else is. And, to prove my point, I hereby solemnly swear that I have not read the Da Vinci Code and have no plans to pick that page-turner up any time soon. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, on the other hand, is well worth picking up if you haven’t already. Admittedly, it is a slow start but once it takes off you’re hooked. It’s slightly disturbing, hugely intriguing and leaves absolutely no loose ends. A perfect means of procrastination, if you ask me.

WANDER

Groovin’ The Moo

Feel like getting festive in the middle of nowhere? Then choose your paddock and jump around at Groovin’ The Moo. This festival has been getting bigger and better with each year that passes and 2011 will definitely not disappoint as another massive line-up of local and international talent hits the sticks to rock your world. I’m talking Architecture in Helsinki, Cut Copy, Bliss n Eso, Art vs. Science, Washington, Birds of Tokyo and The Wombats, just to name a few. The first show hits Victoria on April 30 and will traipse the rest of the country over the following four days. For more detailed information, hit the website below.

www.gtm.net.au

Editorial - Issue One: Trash or Treasure? [Grapeshot Magazine]

So the saying goes that one man's trash is another man's treasure. But if the thought of trash doesn't exactly tickle your fancy, I promise that you will find al the treasures you need in Grapeshot in 2011. It is going to be a cracker of a year - I can feel it in my waters.


Grapeshot not only has a brand new team who are bursting at the seams with enthusiasm, we also have a brand new publication: Grapeshot News. This little gem will come out fortnightly and will keep you all up-to-date on all things Macquarie University. Meanwhile, Grapeshot Magazine will hit the stands monthly and be filled to the brim with creative excellence.


But what does this mean to you? It means more pages for all the new kids on the block, and the kids that have been around the block a few times, to pour their creativity into and an opportunity to make your voice heard like never before.


I told you it was going to be a good year.


Speaking of new kids, a big welcome to everyone starting at Macquarie University this year and congratulations on making such a fine choice in tertiary education. There really is nothing to it. But, if you don’t want to take my word for it, read on and find out for yourself.


Hey! Hey! Hey! Where do you think you’re going, Mr and Mrs 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th year? Just because it’s O-Week and there’s fresh meat around town, doesn’t mean Grapeshot has forgotten about your needs. Ye of little faith. Don’t you worry, there is plenty in the following pages for you to feast your eyes on too.


The new library – finally! Orgasms. Real fur or faux fur? The Black Swan. Parental Facebook control. The potential for Space-Beer. And so much more.


So please, feel free to relish in the pages of Grapeshot and, if you feel so inclined, send your thoughts, words and pictures to grapeshotmq@gmail.com. It’s what we’re here for – to show off how clever you all are.


And lastly, my advice for 2011: If you find a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck. And, if luck doesn’t happen to come your way, at least you’re a penny richer.