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Gyms: donor or junkie?

Belinda Humphries on Tuesday Apr 12th, at 03:35 PM

“How’s your training going mate?” is the question posed to me nearly every time I see my friend Robin. I’m working towards running 8km at the Mother’s Day Classic in May. Robin is amazingly supportive yet a little wackier than I - he’s got his eye on a marathon . Yes, that’s 42kms!

Earth Hour: Other ways businesses can battle climate change?

Belinda Humphries on Tuesday Mar 29th, at 09:19 AM

On Saturday night I was sitting in a small local restaurant with some friends. Half-past eight came and went without so much as a dimming of lights from any of the restaurants in the plaza for Earth Hour. By the time I’d realised Earth Hour had passed it was around 10pm, and it crossed my mind that turning off the lights for an hour may not be a practical option for all small businesses.

It’s vitally important for all of us to consider the effect of what we’re doing on the future of the planet, and all businesses small and large can take steps to ensure their impact on our environment is minimal. But when a restaurant has five hours of service on a Saturday night, bringing the venue to a standstill for one of those hours might not be an option.

Meet my new best friend, the TrueLocal iPhone app

Belinda Humphries on Monday Mar 21st, at 06:03 PM

Last weekend I ventured south of the border to catch up with my friend, Dave. I’d been to Melbourne once before but it was about 11 years ago and I daresay one or two things have changed since then.

I’m sure I pushed my friendship with the poor guy to the nth degree by dragging him from one Melbourne tourist cliché to another while armed with one of the most useful apps I’ve ever downloaded, my new best friend the TrueLocal iPhone app

Deciphering the coffee code

Belinda Humphries on Monday Mar 7th, at 01:20 PM

Last week in the TrueLocal.com.au office we had quite an animated discussion (read: argument) about coffee which ended in iPhones at 10 paces searching for the real answer to the question: what is the difference between a flat white and a latte?

The purists among you will start talking about ratio of milk to coffee and whether or not there is foam involved. But when there are so many other variables - strong vs weak, decaf vs caffeinated, skim vs whole milk - one can’t help but wonder if the minimal difference between a flat white and a latte really matters that much?

Let’s not do dinner

Belinda Humphries on Monday Feb 28th, at 10:19 AM

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, high tea, low tea, morning tea, brunch. What about elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, supper, and as any self-respecting Lord of the Rings fan will be asking right about now, “What about second breakfast?”

In many cultures eating has had a bit of a paradigm shift from fuelling our bodies, as it did back in caveman days, to being a social event.

How to find a good tradie

Belinda Humphries on Monday Feb 21st, at 04:20 PM

I’m quite fortunate in that everything at my place is in good working order. I’m also a bit of a self-sufficient kind of girl. I know one end of a screwdriver from the other, I can attach ends to a coax lead to make a TV cable and I can unblock my own drains without significant incident - emphasis on the term “significant”.

But I digress. My point is that I don’t often have a need for a tradie, so when the odd thing explodes, falls off or has red wine spilled on it (you smirk, but it happens with strange regularity), how do you find someone who is going to do an efficient, appropriately-priced job?

Escorts rather than florists - is romance dead?

Belinda Humphries on Tuesday Feb 15th, at 02:20 PM

While all of us in the TrueLocal.com.au office were in the throes of Valentine’s Day yesterday we came across some interesting information, and we promise we won’t tell your mum.

We noticed a sharp spike in people looking for adult services, including escort agencies, in the month of February, with the annual peak hitting on February 15. So it seems that after all the cupids and love-hearts of Valentine’s Day have faded we get back to love in a very different sense.

Check me out

Belinda Humphries on Monday Feb 14th, at 10:09 AM

Happy Expectations Day… *ahem* Valentine’s Day everyone!

The other day I received an exasperated SMS from my dear friend Matt, vehemently ruing the day he ever laid eyes on a supermarket self-checkout. He made no secret of the fact his blood pressure rises whenever he hears the robotic phrase “unexpected item in bagging area”.

While Matt is a smart guy and it doesn’t take much to figure these contraptions out, I’ve lost count of other intelligent people I know who are sick of going 10 rounds with these things every time they need to quickly grab a couple of items from the supermarket.

Personally, I adore them. Then again, in the spirit of honesty I will disclose that I am known to be slightly pedantic. I can’t trust another person to pack my groceries – every time I do my bread and eggs are squashed by my milk.

I hereby rename Valentine’s Day

Belinda Humphries on Monday Feb 7th, at 11:01 AM

Back in Elizabethan times single ladies would pin bay leaves to their pillows on the eve of Valentine’s Day in the hope they would dream of their future spouse. How times have changed.

Nowadays we celebrate Valentine’s Day with cookie-cutter romance - flowers, chocolates and red cards with standard messages in them.
I’ll step out on a limb here and say Valentine’s Day is now based on the expectation of having our partners buy us something to show how much they care. I hereby rename Valentine’s Day to Expectations Day.

My learned colleagues

Belinda Humphries on Monday Jan 31st, at 01:04 PM

If you’re anything like me, when you raised your glass to welcome in 2011 you thought about what your big goal for the year to come will be. My “what’s next?” for this year again came back to education and I enrolled at music school last week. This is hardly surprising to my dear friends who believe I’ll be a student forever.

Quick Australia Day quiz

Belinda Humphries on Monday Jan 24th, at 09:56 AM

Why do we observe Australia Day?

Anyone who said it was when Australia was discovered, go and sit in the corner and think about what you just said. Anyone who said it was when Captain Arthur Phillip and the First Fleet arrived in 1788, high-fives. OK I’m done with the history lesson.

Upcabbed?

Belinda Humphries on Tuesday Jan 18th, at 12:31 PM

One of the inevitable nightmares of a good night out is getting home at the end of it. A pet loathing of mine is the upcab ... and I can see all your furrowed brows from here so I’ll explain.

When someone upcabs you, they ignore the group of people waiting for taxis and stand up the street in front of everyone and flag the next taxi down. They’re essentially jumping the taxi queue, even though there isn’t a formal queue, more like a mutual understanding among party people as to who was there first.

Meet our Melbourne Community Manager

Annette Maloney on Tuesday Nov 9th, at 11:55 AM

Hi I’m Annette Maloney. Don’t tell anyone but I think I have the best job at TrueLocal. Dining at the best restaurants, drinking at the hottest bars, attending launches for everything from Spring Carnival, Fashion Week, Australian Open, Grand Prix to the opening of an envelope, some might say, I’m there. I get to mix it with all of the celebs and wannabe’s around town as well as the people who really make Melbourne tick and in doing so I have heaps of news and goss for my weekly newsletter and our annual Ultimate Melbourne guide

Adelaide’s favourite businesses

Myles Wearring on Wednesday Oct 6th, at 04:12 PM

We asked the good people of Adelaide to name their favourite businesses. Did your favourite make the cut? Watch the video above to find out.

What’s your favourite business? Tell us below or review them now on TrueLocal.com.au.

Father’s Day

Damian O’Keeffe on Friday Sep 3rd, at 10:40 AM

What would dad like?

Did you know the first Father’s Day took place in Fairmont, West Virginia in 1908? It was to remember 210 fathers who died in a mining accident. It goes by a different name today but the First Father’s Day Church still stands in the area. Thankfully by the 1930s capitalism was in on the deal and the day began to resemble the commercialised affair we’ll be celebrating on Sunday.

Ultimate Melbourne

Tim Colman on Friday Aug 20th, at 11:40 AM

Pure Pop Records

If you need to unwind after the election this weekend pick up the Sunday Herald Sun for your free copy of TrueLocal.com.au Ultimate Melbourne. We’ve covered Brisbane and Sydney previously so you should know what to expect in the guide. Put simply – quality places to eat, drink, shop, relax and should the need arise, escape.

Knowing your electorate

Tim Colman on Wednesday Aug 18th, at 03:04 PM

Lalor vs Warringah

The Federal election happens this Saturday which means you’re probably sick to death of hearing each party’s promises and swipes at each other. What about the seats each member represents though? Where do the locals there eat and drink?

Hello Adelaide

Myles Wearring on Wednesday Aug 11th, at 10:45 AM

Beautiful Adelaide.

If you’re an Adelaide local you’ve probably noticed our new TrueLocal.com.au ads on TV, in the paper and on the radio. We just launched them this week - what do you think?

While we’ve always been an Australia-wide site, we’re very excited to be expanding our presence in Adelaide and throwing our support behind South Australian small businesses and consumers. 

Ultimate Brisbane

Tim Colman on Thursday Aug 5th, at 12:31 PM

Cloudland

We looked at Sydney two weeks ago and now it’s Brisbane’s turn. For visitors and locals alike TrueLocal.com.au Ultimate Brisbane is your easy to carry guide covering the best places to eat, drink, shop and relax in the sunshine state’s capital city. You’ll find it free when you pick up a copy of The Sunday Mail this weekend.

City, surf and bars

Tim Colman on Wednesday Aug 4th, at 11:43 AM

Running - great for the knees

The City2Surf is on this Sunday starting with a bang from Hyde Park in the Sydney CBD and ending out of breath at Bondi Beach. It’s a 14km run to test your stamina and fitness. The problem is running is dull and not great for your knees. Pub crawls on the other hand are a lot more fun and hopefully don’t result in any knee reconstruction surgery. Here’s a few stops you might consider making if you need to break from pack.

Ultimate Sydney

Tim Colman on Wednesday Jul 21st, at 04:48 PM

The Winery by Gazebo

Just landed in Sydney and not sure where to eat, drink or shop? Perhaps you’re a Sydneysider but are looking are looking to widen your horizons beyond the local pub. Or maybe you need to know the latest and tastiest restaurant impress the fussiest of eaters. TrueLocal.com.au Ultimate Sydney is here to help.

Riding the Victorian snowfields

David Stone on Thursday Jul 15th, at 10:00 AM

Snowboarding on Mount Buller

So we’ve seen what New South Wales has to offer, now it’s Victoria’s turn. Head east to the Alpine National Park where you’ll find an extensive range of snowfields, resorts, bars, restaurants, more bars and even a museum.

Snowfields, in Australia?

David Stone on Tuesday Jul 13th, at 09:45 AM

The Thredbo slopes

Let’s face it, when you think of skiing locations Australia doesn’t immediately come to mind. But why not? The ski fields are conveniently located from most of the major capital cities; with great terrain, modern snow making facilities, and let’s not forget great parties!

The best things in life are free

Damian O’Keeffe on Wednesday Jul 7th, at 04:01 PM

Well, unfortunately the best things in life aren’t always free but the bus to get there certainly is!

If you’re a visitor to Sydney or you’re a local looking for something to do, a good way to explore the city is on the 555 bus. The 555 is a free shuttle bus that circles the CBD, from Circular Quay to Central Station. It costs the NSW government $1.3 million a year, so you may as well get your money’s worth!

Winter festivities

Tim Colman on Wednesday Jun 23rd, at 11:04 AM

Winter surfing

When you picture outdoor activities in Australia they’re generally hot and beach related. You might think everything shuts down over winter but there are pockets of activity happening throughout the country. Some of them are still water-related too, although more frozen then flowing.

Where are you watching the World Cup?

Tim Colman on Wednesday Jun 9th, at 04:14 PM

With the Socceroos actually looking like becoming regular combatants in the World Cup tournament Australians are actually watching soccer, or football as the rest of the world calls it. While our country’s geographical location generally offers a reasonable climate all year round it does mean we’re forced to watch the big World Cup matches at some lonely point in the morning when the only other thing on TV are infomercials.

Awarding local knowledge with badges

Tim Colman on Tuesday Jun 1st, at 03:17 PM

If you’ve logged in to your TrueLocal account to review recently you may have noticed you were awarded a badge or two. They’ll be highlighted on your profile and basically indicate your love of food, bars, pets etc.

So, what are people searching for online?

David Stone on Friday May 28th, at 11:29 AM

Ever had to find a shoe repairer in Brisbane or fancied a pizza in Hobart? Perhaps you’ve needed a local Melbourne plumber in an emergency.

From lifestyle to health and beauty, white-collar to blue-collar, we get all kinds of searches on TrueLocal.com.au. 

Some of the more popular searches on our site cover things that feature in your day-to-day activities, like finding a venue for a night out, or perhaps an annual chore such as requiring an accountant for your tax returns or a mechanic to get your green slip. 

What not to write in a review

Tim Colman on Thursday May 20th, at 05:18 PM

Stop! Think before you write

Here are a few tips on what not to write in a review, because we won’t publish it. We might have a laugh, but we won’t publish it.

These are all reviews we’ve received … and rejected, of course.

17th Biennale of Sydney, what’s on and where

Damian O’Keeffe on Thursday May 13th, at 02:39 PM

Nine car pile-up

The largest contemporary art festival in the country, the Biennale of Sydney, is holding its 17th exhibition this year. Running from May through to August across the city there’s plenty on display for budding artists, art posers and the art curious to enjoy and discuss. Best of all most of it is free.

Flowers again?

Damian O’Keeffe on Wednesday May 5th, at 04:45 PM

Get mum something she’d really like

So the Hallmark Holiday to celebrate the lady who popped you out and raised you is upon us. You probably shouldn’t limit ‘thanks mum’ to one day a year but if you do just a card and flowers can be pretty lame. Here’s a few ideas which could make the day memorable.

How do you play two-up?

Tim Colman on Thursday Apr 22nd, at 02:37 PM

Typical Anzac Day outfit

So you’re in a crowded, rowdy bar and the drinks are flowing. You notice everyone gravitating towards a rabble of cheers and two copper coins spinning above the sea of heads. “Come in Spinner,” is heartily shouted just before the coins appear. Confused?

Restaurant hygiene revealed with score on door

Myles Wearring on Wednesday Apr 14th, at 05:06 PM

Ever wondered how hygienic your local restaurants are? Diners in New South Wales will soon find out with the State Government introducing a score on the door hygiene rating for food businesses.

Restaurants taking part in the voluntary program will recieve a score of A, B or C - with A being the highest level of food hygiene and safety - that they must display on their shopfront.

Our top 5 Local Star reviews

Damian O’Keeffe on Friday Apr 9th, at 05:00 PM

Over the past couple of months our Local Stars have been providing TrueLocal with a huge amount of in depth reviews. In fact, well over 500 reviews have been added in just the last 8 weeks and there have been some real gems.

Four days of Easter

Tim Colman on Thursday Apr 1st, at 12:12 PM

Spinning out at the Easter Show

There’s definitely more to the Easter holidays than stuffing yourself with chocolate eggs and hot cross buns. While doing nothing but eating for 4 days straight is an admirable pursuit you might want to actually get out from under the mountain of chocolate and venture outside.

Why chocolate eggs and rabbits?

Tim Colman on Thursday Mar 25th, at 09:47 AM

You found an egg where?

Easter is the most important holiday on the Christian religion’s calendar. Why then is it commemorated across the globe by a giant bunny rabbit delivering chocolate eggs throughout the night? It’s not like chocolate and rabbits are an integral part of Christian teachings.

Where to complain

Tim Colman on Friday Mar 5th, at 10:38 AM

What would you do if your surgeon was smoking while operating?

It’s one thing to write about a negative experience on TrueLocal, but if a business has blatantly broken the law an anonymous review isn’t going to help. Different legal issues, including defamation, might mean your review simply can’t be posted. As a consumer you need to know your rights and direct your complaint to an organisation who can take action on your behalf.

Mardi Gras local hot spots

Myles Wearring on Friday Feb 26th, at 05:27 PM

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is upon us once more and the harbour city is brimming with interstate and international visitors here to help the locals celebrate.

To mark the occasion we’ve compiled this quick guide to queer Sydney’s highlights.

The gay and lesbian community can be found in all corners of Sydney but is most prominent in the trendy inner city suburbs of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Potts Point and the surrounding suburbs of Elizabeth Bay and Rushcutters Bay, and in the vibrant inner west suburbs of Newtown and nearby Erskineville.

Moore wants less Yellow

Myles Wearring on Tuesday Feb 23rd, at 03:11 PM

A pile of Yellow Pages on the street in Surry Hills, Sydney last week.

What are you using your freshly delivered stack of Yellow Pages for? An attractive stand for your computer monitor? Something to fill the top shelf of your kitchen cupboard? A booster seat for the kids? Emergency toilet paper, perhaps?

With the annual delivery of printed Yellow Pages directories in full swing around the nation, millions of people are facing the annoying reality of having to dispose of the hefty tomes left sitting on their front doorstep.

One person who wants to see an end to the mass delivery of these books is Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

Eating your way through Chinese New Year

Damian O’Keeffe on Wednesday Feb 17th, at 10:02 AM

Well Chinese New Year celebrations have well and truly kicked off, with major events planned throughout Australia to mark the Year of the Tiger. While the Tiger might seem rather fierce apparently those born under the Horse, Dog and Pig sign are the most compatible with Tigers. Snake and Monkey signs are advised to steer clear.

There’s more to Valentine’s Day than flowers and lingerie

Tim Colman on Tuesday Feb 9th, at 10:22 AM

Difficulty in picking the perfect gift is not strictly the domain of men. Both sexes often find themselves bereft of ideas on the eve of Valentine’s Day. While sending flowers or lingerie may appear a no brainer it also indicates you’re probably somewhat short of romantic or interesting ideas. Here’s a few leads which may impress your loved one.

Local Stars: Truelocal’s best reviewers

Damian O’Keeffe on Monday Feb 8th, at 11:52 AM

You might have noticed we really like our reviews. We’re also quite fond of some of our reviewers. That’s why we’ve decided it’s time we rewarded our best reviewers and let everyone else know who they are. We’re calling them Local Stars.
We’ll be on the look out for more Local Stars so if you think you’ve got what it takes, get reviewing.
You can meet some of our Local Stars here and you’ll also find more info about how you can become a Local Star.

When a bad review can be good

Damian O’Keeffe on Friday Jan 29th, at 10:09 AM

Letting people write reviews on TrueLocal.com.au might seem like a simple idea but it can be more problematic than you’d think.

Some businesses are fearful of reviews because they don’t think it’s fair to let people write anything they want about them. The truth is they can’t – we moderate all reviews for legal reasons, offensive words and so on – which sometimes angers the reviewers.

Welcome to the TrueLocal.com.au blog

Myles Wearring on Wednesday Jan 27th, at 02:24 PM

Hello, thanks for reading our new blog. This is where you’ll find tips, news and views on local businesses - for consumers and business owners.

Most importantly, this blog is about you. We want to hear what you think, whether you use local businesses or own one. Don’t be shy, join the discussion. This is your chance to have your say.

We’ll also keep you up to date with some big changes we have coming to TrueLocal in the near future.

I hope to hear from you soon.