If you weren't in Fed Square last night watching Robbie Williams get presented with the keys to the city, we can only apologise. Here's what's going on across Melbourne over the first weekend of 2025—eyes peeled for the man himself of course.

The Headlines

• A warning has been issued about some recent dodgy taxi ongoings. The reports claim some cab drivers are charging over the odds for a ride by being sneaky and using a payment terminal that's not connected to the meter. We've been warned to be particularly wary when getting a lift to or from the Aussie Open, so beware if you're tram-shy and plan to head to the tennis over the next few weeks.

• If you're sick of meeting your weekly Hinge dates at Afloat, we're here to help. Whether a saucy night at a burlesque show is a bit of you or climbing is more your scene, here is a list of some of the more creative date spots in Melbourne—there's something for everyone. The picks are actually just fun things to do in the city, so of course they would work a treat for your next girls night out or if you're already in a relationship.

• 2025 is off to a blinder as daily Myki fares have already risen. The cost of a daily ticket is now $11 following a 40-cent rise this week, making it one of the most expensive places for public transport in the country. This news, of course, won't affect the vast majority of tram users—no doubt only encouraging the lack of tapping and keeping the entertaining Myki inspector alert Facebook page thriving.

Where to Go on Friday

The Yayoi Kusama Exhibition is in full swing, and in a fun twist, NGV Fridays are back. Rather than looking at the spots surrounded by kids on school holidays, you can take it all in with a DJ playing and a glass of vino in hand. Tanzer is tonight's artist of choice and tickets start at $45. In the words of the venue itself, "Brat summer might be over, but art summer is just beginning at NGV".

Where to Go on Saturday

For those who aren't in recovery after a big NYE at BTV or LTEC, Caribou will take over PICA on Saturday night. Hailed as one of the world's most renowned electronic artists, the show is the only Melbourne leg of his Aussie tour. Tickets are down to final release and will set you back a sweet $98, so maybe not one for you if the festivities bankrupted you. The venue itself is definitely one to tick off the list though if you fancy a boogie.

Where to Go on Sunday

The St Kilda Esplanade Market absolutely thrives in summer, featuring 100+ stalls of local artists and businesses selling crafts, gifts, jewellery, and souvenirs. It's located just up from Luna Park and is the perfect way to spend a wholesome Sunday by the sea. The market is open until 5pm, unlike most others that close early, which is ideal if you're nursing a hangover in the morning.

Where to Eat and Drink

Tivoli Road Bakery is a modest spot hidden on a side road in South Yarra, serving up some of the best bread and pastries in the biz. They have an ever-changing selection of creative pastries, some savoury goodies, and top-notch barista-made coffee. Its a quiet bakery with a couple of outdoor seats, ideal for a peaceful catch-up on a sunny day.

Where to Live

The current tenant of this Brunswick flat is off on a little Europe trip, so the entire place is up for grabs. It's yours for six weeks from the end of Jan, making it the perfect time of year to enjoy the adorable balcony and rooftop. The catch is there's no Wi-Fi, which isn't very 2025 of it, so it's not ideal if you WFH (but perfect if your New Year’s resolution was to lower your screen time).

Core selling point: we're a sucker for a Melbs skyline view.

Where to Work

Just about as Melbourne as you can get, today's job is a casual Op Shop Supervisor. The role involves coordinating the network of volunteers and helping with the daily operations of the op shop chain. Plus, you get some good discounts to sweeten the deal. Roles are available in various locations across the city, but let’s face it, op shop lovers will obviously be Northside.

Enjoying the Melbourne 417? Share this link with a friend.