The March 30 Edition
Among the most popular of the reality TV franchises that have swept the world in recent decades has been Survivor. Comfortably ensconced on our couches, with wine, chocolate and perhaps a cat or dog on our lap, we can’t get enough of how ordinary people survive extraordinary physical hardship out in the elements. They are, of course, never at any real risk – the show’s producers would not allow it. Nick Stride and family did all this without the safety net of doing it for TV – that is, they did it for real – for multiple years across the north-west of this country. Sue Williams recounts their remarkable journey from Moscow to Brisbane, Bunbury, Broome and beyond in today’s magazine. Their tale puts into sharp perspective the frightening reality of getting on the wrong side of the Russian elite, and the difficulty of gaining asylum. It’s notable that the Strides were finally accepted not by the country they spent so many years hiding out in, but by a near neighbour. Elsewhere in today’s issue, at a time when every second pop-up ad extols the virtues of a new wellness product to spend your money on, Amanda Hooton makes the case for a much older and infinitely cheaper psyche cleanser: gardening. Katrina Strickland, editor
He knew too much about Putin’s apparatchiks – so his family ended up hiding out here
When a job with an oligarch in Russia turned dangerous, Nick Stride grabbed his family and fled as far as they could go: Australia.
- by Sue Williams
Forget smoothies, candles and retreats. For the ultimate wellness hack, get gardening
With some comparing it to a “nourishing therapy session”, pottering around with plants is blooming lovely – even as our backyards shrink.
- by Amanda Hooton
What his friend’s killer did in court set Peter on a new life mission
After losing a close friend in horrific circumstances – and witnessing his killer’s brazen insolence – Peter Rolfe knew what he had to do.
- by Greg Callaghan
Two of Us
For subscribers
At 19, Tom was feeling ‘a bit fluey’. Within months, he’d lost limbs
When Tom Nash was in hospital, his best mate, Chris Hutchison, helped him through with daily visits and “glimpses of normalcy”.
- by Katie Cunningham
Dicey Topics
For subscribers
No kids, car or mortgage: How 2024 Venice Biennale artist Archie Moore makes a living
The Kamilaroi and Bigambul man is only the second solo Indigenous artist to represent Australia at the Venice Biennale.
- by Benjamin Law
Modern Guru
Modern Guru
A reality TV fan hijacked my chat about arthouse film. How to stick to the program?
Our Modern Guru says high- and low-brow conversation topics can coexist – it’s just like washing down Twisties with a quality shiraz.
- by Danny Katz
The probability of an Australian Taylor-Travis combo – and other fun stats
Plus: get ready for the weekend with these fresh diversions.
- by Various
Nocturnal manoeuvres
“We need to talk,” Esther said, lowering her book. Angus’s stomach dropped. “Yeah, what about?” he replied, conjuring airiness. “You know,” Esther said. “Christ, Ess, it’s late. I’m exhausted. Can we do this another time when we’re both thinking clearly?” She bit her lip at that, then breathed deeply: “Over breakfast, then?” “Yeah. I mean, no. Gotta leave early for work,” he said. “After dinner tomorrow?” “Argh, I’m out with Kev, remember?” “Saturday arvo, then? After your cricket.” “Aren’t your parents coming for dinner?” “Sunday morning?” “Should be fine …” “About 11?” “Think so, yeah …” “All right, then. Sunday morning.” “Yep.” “Night, then.”
This Italian wedding soup is a marriage of flavours, and you’ll be making it on repeat
This hearty meatball and pasta soup is sure to be love at first spoonful.
- by Danielle Alvarez
Don’t worry if the fruit sinks to the bottom in this almondy Easter cake from Helen Goh
Try this new version of the traditional Simnel cake, with the marzipan whipped into the batter instead of topping the cake.
- by Helen Goh
Review
Tsindos
Greek food is having a moment, but this 40-year-old city icon is an authentic stayer
Family restaurant Tsindos, and its secret eggplant dip, has been a Lonsdale Street stalwart for 40 years.
- by Dani Valent
Review
Good Weekend
This new-look Balmain boozer feels like an entirely new venue. So, how’s the food?
There’s no chicken schnitzel, but there is a juicy pork chop at The Dry Dock. Just don’t wear your thongs.
- by Callan Boys
Opinion
Opinion
With a dry-aged pork chop on offer for $160 who can afford to eat out?
We are living in the age of the $90 steak and $30 cocktail. What’s next?
- by Terry Durack
