After a difficult week, the sweet reprieve of Saturday has finally arrived. The country is collectively lifting the working work off their shoulders and (hopefully) settling into a big, cosy blanket of restful peace. If you are anything like me, you’ll be using the wet weather excuse to its full measure this weekend – avoiding yard work, ignoring chores and embracing inertia. Bring it on. But before I melt into the couch for another weekend of blissful inactivity, there is some Staff Favourites work to be done. Check out everything that kept us smiling this week in our Man of Many Staff Favourites column and remember to take it easy.
The North Face x icebreaker Collaboration
Nick Hall – Editor-in-Chief
When it comes to outdoor gear, there are few names bigger and more established than The North Face. The iconic adventure brand has built an incredible legacy for hard-wearing and rugged apparel that keeps you warm, safe, and secure while maintaining a trademark level of style. Closer to home, another highly revered brand has been on a similar path, and now they are teaming up.
New Zealand’s own icebreaker, the world leader in premium Merino wool apparel, has launched a new Fall/Winter 24 capsule collection in collaboration with The North Face, and I was enough to snag a few pieces. Again focusing on merino wool, the latest adventure wear arrives with a sustainable focus, meticulously crafted with 100 per cent plastic-free fibres. Amazingly, the capsule includes pieces that are created using a blend of merino wool and TENCEL Lyocell, a fibre made of responsibly sourced wood pulp.
I was sent the Merino Tee, Pants and RealFleece Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie to test out and after a week of use, I have to say these are the most comfortable pieces of clothing I own. Admittedly, I haven’t taken them outside the house just yet (still waiting for my next adventure to take hold), but I can certainly attest to the lightweight and durable design. I am a huge fan of the Lichen colourway, and will definitely be pulling these out on my next hike.
Favourite Article of the Week: Quentin Tarantino Dumps ‘The Movie Critic’ as Final Film
Fallout TV Series
Scott Purcell – Co-Founder
I never played the game, but now I want to. It’s a fairly quick one for me this week as I’m flying down to Melbourne to play in my mate’s annual golf tournament this year at the Mornington Peninsula. I’m clearly the least practised, although I have got all the gear and no idea, with a new set of fitted Callaway clubs from Drummond Golf. I will let you know how I go next week. Anyways, back to Fallout. This TV show is so good! It’s got everything I love and is similar to The Last of Us, packed with a bunch of modern tech from a post-apocalyptic world. It’s an epic storyline that you never know which twist or turn it might take. It’s available on Amazon Prime if you want to check it out.
Favourite Article of the Week: Best Australian Whiskies to Drink Right Now
The Local Project YouTube Channel
Frank Arthur – Co-Founder
My Staff Favourite this week is a must for all design and architecture enthusiasts: The Local Project. Initially an architecture-inspired social media mood board, it has evolved into one of the most respected design media platforms globally. Available in both print and digital formats, The Local Project showcases some of the most stunning and innovative luxury home designs in Australia, New Zealand, and, recently, the USA through captivating imagery and engaging narratives.
Their print editions are a great read and make a fantastic addition to any coffee table or bookshelf. However, if you’re just beginning to explore their content, I highly recommend subscribing to their YouTube channel. In my view, The Local Project produces some of the best residential architecture videos out there.
Each video provides a comprehensive home design tour, complete with interviews with architects, designers, builders, and others involved in the project. An approach that enriches the viewer’s understanding of the design process and highlights what makes each property uniquely special. For anyone with a passion for design or on the hunting for home inspiration, I highly recommend subscribing to their YouTube.
Favourite Article of the Week: $650,000 Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual Spins on Three Axes
Face of Man
Elliott Barsby – Commercial Director
As someone who typically shies away from anything beauty-related and is a complete pampering novice (who knew face massages were a thing?), my recent visit to Face of Man was a delightful departure from my usual routine.
Established in 1978 and originally housed in the iconic Strand Arcade in Sydney, Face of Man is Australia’s first-ever male grooming lounge. Its new premium space, situated across from the Queen Victoria Building, maintains the same time-honoured approach to customer service, offering a truly immersive beauty and grooming experience for men.
I was booked in for the ELEMIS Signature Platinum Facial, something I never imagined myself saying, let alone indulging in. The treatment, with its deep cleansing properties and revitalising massage sequences, left me invigorated and refreshed, and I could not recommend it more highly.
Every element, from the nourishing Pro-Collagen Marine range to the multi-dynamic facial massage sequences, felt tailored to my needs and resulted in me feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and utterly spoiled. Something I could definitely get used to. My first foray into the world of luxury pampering was a revelation, and I will definitely be returning for more.
Favourite Article of the Week: TAG Heuer’s New Carrera Chronograph is a Timeless Watch for Modern Racers
Sheet Society Miller Jersey Grey Marle Quilted Set
Now that the weather’s starting to cool, I want to stay in bed for longer on the weekends, and adding new, cozy sheets to the equation is a dangerous game. At the moment, my bed is fitted with the Miller Jersey Grey Marle Quilted Set from Sheet Society and the comfort levels here have not gone unnoticed. The super-comfy, stretchy, knitted fabric is made from 100% cotton jersey and is surprisingly warm. My personal favourite is the thoughtful touches added for quick and easy sheet changes.
I don’t know about you, but whenever I’m on sheet-changing duty, I’ll be there for several minutes trying to figure it all out. But the invisible zipper on the doona cover and thick elastic on the fitted sheet make the sheet changing chore a cinch. The extra fabric on the pillowcase flaps also makes sure your pillows aren’t peeping out. If you need me on a Sunday morning, you know where to find me (please don’t).
Favourite Article of the Week: Best Taper Fade Haircuts for Men, According to a Barber
Hunters Hill Wine Room
Bem McKimm – Journalist – Automotive & Tech
When one of the country’s best sommeliers opens a wine room 20 minutes down the road in Hunters Hill I get excited. One of just six Master Sommeliers in Australia (300 worldwide), Adrian Filiuta (former Group Sommelier of Merivale) is showcasing his expertise with 1,000-plus bottles of wine to Sydney’s Lower North Shore. From classic Chablis to Tasmanian Pinot Noir, the ever-evolving collection spans diverse regions, including unique finds from Sicily, Portugal, Hungary, and South America.
Of course, it would be wrong to forget about Australia and there are plenty of up-and-coming and ethical winegrowers. Don’t turn your nose if you’re not a seasoned drinker because prices at Hunters Hill Wine Room cater to all budgets and drinkers, from those who enjoy a casual drop with dinner to those seeking rare and collectible vintages. I’ll be heading in soon to suss out some of his Burgungys and definitely walk out a little poorer.
Favourite Article of the Week: 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Review
Concordia Club Marrickville
Alex Martinez – Media Sales and Brand Partnerships
You know how sometimes you just want a serving of pork knuckle that is larger than your head? I got you. Concordia Club offers a traditional German experience and is one of the most bizarre and brilliant places I’ve had the pleasure of attending. Established in 1883, stepping into this establishment feels like stepping back in time, with decor that hasn’t budged much since its inception. As you’re greeted by staff sporting thick German accents, you’re immediately immersed in a genuine German experience. The challenge of pronouncing the array of German beers only adds to the authenticity.
The menu boasts classic German fare, with the legendary pork knuckle taking centre stage. Wander through the club and you’ll find yourself surrounded by German flags, memorabilia, and staff donning traditional attire. I am unsure if it is a regular occurrence but there was also a live accordion player on the night I attended. Out front, there are two lawns perfect for families with little ones. I’ll prost to that!
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Bobby’s Cronulla
Richie Hall – Video Producer
Bobby’s has recently opened up right on Cronulla Beach – any closer to the sand and you’d be sitting on your towel. With an ex-Totti’s/Otto’s chef at the helm and a beautiful interior by leading design firm Tom Mark Henry, this place has some serious Euro Beach Club vibes. Come as you are straight off the beach and relax into a long, slow lunch with the sea breeze and a modern European seafood driven menu. I went for the Cantabrian anchovies, the delicious stracciatella with fried rosemary, honey and hazelnut (pictured), the grilled octopus and the pan fried barramundi. I’m very keen to return and try the barra burger. With four-hour free parking and less than a 5 minute walking from Cronulla Station it’s definitely worth a trip and it was great to get out of the city and the crowded Eastern suburbs.
Favourite Article of the Week: Ayrburn Review: New Zealand’s Ritzy New Dining Destination Uncovered
