We're back and better than ever. Hope you all had the perfect Aussie Christmas and consumed your bodyweight in BBQ food. Here is the latest from Melbourne on the penultimate day of 2024.

The Headlines

• Left your NYE plans until today and willing to drop a few hundred dollars on last-minute entry to a usually free rooftop bar? Check out this roundup of some of the best parties across the city. No, your eyes don't deceive you—some of these tickets will set you back over $500, but there are some more affordable options too if you're not one to give in to a gimmick. HER Music Room isn't ticketed, and Hopscotch is charging a bargain $20.

• While we were away, yet another outdoor cinema was revealed in the city. Open Air in the Square—Fed Square, that is—will open on Jan 3rd. A range of films will take to the screen, with blockbusters like Inception, Interstellar, and The Dark Knight starting off the proceedings. There's even set to be a birthday party in honour of the one and only Dolly Parton on the 19th, though it’s yet to be confirmed if she'll be in attendance.

• No better way to immortalise your time in Aus than with a tattoo, right? If you've moved Northside and are wanting to fit in with the Fitzroy crowd, you simply must get some ink. With so many questionable studios out there, here are Melbourne's best tattoo parlours so there is no risk of a tat you might regret. Whether you want something traditional or a little fine-line number, there is plenty to pick from on this list.

Where to Eat and Drink

Christmas is over, meaning summer is officially go. Today’s pick is another floating gem—Ponyfish Island. Perched right in the middle of the Yarra River, this spot serves up stunning views of Southbank and the CBD. With cosy lounge areas and sunshades, it’s the ultimate place to soak up the summer vibes while sharing a Pimms and a cheeseboard with the girls.

Where to Live

If you're looking for a fresh home to welcome the new year, there's a room in this Abbotsford townhouse available from tomorrow. Not only will you have access to the building’s gym and pool, but you'll also be sharing with an adorable Labrador. It's fully furnished down to the bedding, so you can spend that hard-earned Christmas money on something more exciting than pots and pans.

Core selling point: across the road from IKEA.

Where to Work

Calling all tea lovers, T2 in Fitzroy is hiring casual retail staff. If you know your chamomile from your PG tips, and your loose-leaf from your tea bags, this could be the job for you. With perks including 50% off and as many cups of their jazzy selection of tea as you can stomach, you'll be the picture of health from the huge quantity of antioxidants you're consuming.

Where to Go

Rye Foreshore Carnival down on the peninsula has opened its gates for summer season this week. Head down for a bit of Aussie family culture, with plenty of potato twizzlers and sausage sizzlers, along with some beachside rides and wholesome carnival vibes. If a trip down the peninsula is on the cards for NYE, or you fancy a little drive out of the city for some fresh seaside air, the carnival is on until the end of Jan.

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