Melbourne is on the cusp of becoming one of the world’s great cities, but is being held back because its prized services and attractions are not adequately spread to the outer suburbs.

Foo Fighters are in talks to play a one-off show in Geelong in March as part of an initiative to promote Victoria as a world-class live music destination.

UK powerhouse Nigella Lawson will be among the big name stars cooking up a storm at this year’s Melbourne Food and Wine Festival.

And rotting rubbish is blocking footpaths and turning expensive neighbourhoods into “third world” suburbs, say frustrated residents.

For updates and breaking news throughout the day, take out a subscription at heraldsun.com.au