STM Loves: Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival, Thorny Devil Australia and Brighton Wine Bar

Margaret River Readers & Writers Festival

The winner of the 2025 Booker Prize, a legendary actor and a popular comedian are among the authors headed to the South West for this annual readers and writers festival. Held across Margaret River and Busselton, David Szalay, Bryan Brown and Shaun Micallef join Antoinette Lattouf, Sarah Wilson and Bob Brown for a slew of events that delve into their work, processes and inspirations. More details and tickets can be found at mrrwfestival.com, with the full program released on March 16.

Thorny Devil Australia

Celebrated photographer Russell James — who has snapped the likes of Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, Cindy Crawford and countless Victoria Secret angels and shows — was back on the tools to shoot WA swimwear label, Thorny Devil Australia. Founded by Indigenous designer Shannon “Shan Shan” Hanning, the brand takes inspiration from the spiky lizard of its namesake, which symbolises endurance and adaptation, reinterpreting its natural armour through 3D prints in shades inspired by the desert and jewels. The label has launched with a range of bikinis, one-pieces and accessories, available online at thornydevilaustralia.com.

Kimberley Moon Experience

Swapping her Sorrento Moon for the Kimberly’s twilight sky, Tina Arena is headed to WA to headline this unique concert on the shores of the Ord River. As part of the Boab Metals Ord Valley Muster, Arena will join ARIA Award-winning Boy & Bear and Budjerah to close the 10-day music, culture and arts festival running across the Kimberley. “The Kimberley is such a beautiful, spiritual place. I’ve been lucky to perform in some incredible locations, but nothing will compare to the remoteness and untouched beauty of the East Kimberley, I can’t wait to get to Kununurra,” says Arena of her upcoming trip. For tickets, or more information on the festival running from May 15 to 24, go to ordvalleymuster.com.au.

Urban Food District

Crown Perth has opened its anticipated new premium food hall with a vibrant selection of eateries — including Burgers by ES, Side Piece Pizza, Tekka Bar and Saigon Story. Only a short walk from Crown Theatre and Optus Stadium, it’s a great new addition for sporting punters and showgoers to grab a pre-game or post-show feed.

Brighton Wine Bar

Make the most of warm nights with a glass of local bubbles and a plate of something freshly plucked from the ocean at Scarborough’s newest wine bar. The beachside venue is keeping local produce and wines top of mind, from the seafood-driven menu (the team also promise plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options) to the WA wines, beer — or the must-try Tim Tam espresso martini. “Every decision, from what’s on the plate to what’s poured into the glass, reflects the close relationships we’ve built with local producers and suppliers,” co-owner Ben Randall says of the wine bar, found at 190 The Esplanade and opening in early March.

Reebok revival

A wedge sneaker revival wasn’t exactly on our 2026 bingo card — but with gen Z embracing 80s-inspired athleisure, it suddenly adds up. Right on cue, Reebok is relaunching its Freestyle Hi sneaker for $160, first released at the peak of the 1980s aerobics boom. reebok.com.au