Q: Where in the world can you get a dose of danger while surrounded by the sanctuary of good people, good food, good beats, good books, good coffee, and the best conversations? A: Festival of Dangerous Ideas. That’s where.
Your favourites are back to nourish your senses and sustain you through the onslaught of seriously sensational sessions. Come early for a Kitchen by Mike breakfast, grab a Cohab coffee between sessions and steal a moment in the winter sun with a Dangerous book, or unpack it all at the end of the day to the custom beats of DJ Charlie Villas with a glass of KBM bar’s best, in hand. This is your space. Everyone is welcome. Enjoy.
Charlie Villas is one of Australia’s favourite party starters and highly sought-after djs. Hailing from the Philippines and now based in the picturesque Blue Mountains on Darug and Gundungurra land, she is celebrated as a vibe maker and dance floor legend. Known for seamlessly blending diverse musical styles, Charlie channels the spirit of iconic New York clubs from back in the day, while infusing a global tapestry that transports audiences to unforgettable house parties.
Her passion for soulful, worldly sounds has resonated across major events such as Dark Mofo, Darwin Festival, Laneway, Splendour In The Grass, and Sydney Mardi Gras, among others. Charlie’s international footprint includes sets in London, Paris, Tokyo, Kyoto and Bali.
Photo: Maja Baska Photography
Cohab Coffee has been the resident espresso bar at Carriageworks since 2020. They serve Dhuwa Coffee, a rich full-bodied blend from Australia’s only First Nation’s-owned coffee company. Cohab became known as the ‘Pay it forward cafe’ in lockdown thanks to an initiative that gave thousands of coffees to healthcare workers. Now Cohab Coffee regularly sells delicious cookies and brownies at events to fundraise for LGBTQI refugees in Kenya. Founder Chris McAllister is a proud trans business owner, barista and creative.
Mike’s egalitarian approach to the guest experience at KBM x Festival of Dangerous Ideas offers diners maximum flexibility in a canteen-style atmosphere. A first of its kind, KBM revolutionised casual dining, creating a new era of informal eating. Discover candid cooking and responsible food, you can expect an offering that is seasonal, simple and fresh. Order at the counter and allow your eyes to play a part in dictating your order.
And since it’s 5 o’clock somewhere, grab a glass of vino at the KBM bar. Mike’s team will be serving up Australian beers, wines and snacks until late… cheers to that!