Monday 31st May 2004 - Day 261/366 - Surfers Paradise, Queensland.

God Bless the Swiss Army knife

I managed to get as far as 500 on my combinations before I got bored. It took me 20 minutes to break into the lock with my tin opener on my Swiss Army knife.

Some American i've heard compare Surfers Paradise to Miami South Beach. Er No, its no where near as pretentious.

I had a surf lesson this morning. $25 for 2 hours with the Surfer World Champion Cheyne Horan. Thats how it was advertised anyway, in reality it was with some guy called Scottie. The lesson was much better than the one I had in Hawaii. We learnt about reading the conditions, like the rips, weather, wind and waves and took time learning how to catch waves as opposed to having some guy push you at the right time.

I did alright. Caught plenty of waves although everytime the photographer was pointing her camera at me I fell off. The Instructor said I was ripping it. I've no idea what that means, but I'm sure it's good.

It was pretty hard work out there today. The rip was very strong and it's surprising how quickly you get shifted down the beach.

Sunday 30th May 2004 - Day 260/366 - Byron Bay, New South Wales to Surfers Paradise, Queensland.

Another Book. I'm ploughing through them now. This time i read Jeffery Archer - A Matter of Honour as I thought I'd like to see what the old felon was like as an author. I actually quite enjoyed it, although there are a worrying amount of prostitutes and gay encounters in it, that must be the politician in him.

Went out last night with Paul to enjoy the delights of Byron by night. There weren't too many people out, but we ended up watching some pretty good live local bands. What I thought would be a quiet night with an early ending, ended up not being and that kind of ruined my plans of an early morning run before having to catch the bus to Surfers Paradise. Never mind I'll survive.

I've never known such inconsiderate dorm buddies than this lot. When you get in at 3am having had a few sherbets, the normal procedure is to fumble about in the dark rummaging through your bags (normally plastic) looking for whatever it is you need to lie in a coma till morning. Well not this lot. They traipse in and turn on all the lights. I'm up and half dressed before I realised that it was only 3am and I still had another 6 hours before my bus left.

Somehow I've managed to change the combination on my backpack padlock so I've had to pack through the rather small hole at the bottom.

The drive to Surfers takes about 2 hours. Surfers is situated on Queenslands Gold Coast and is easily identifiable from a distance by the multitude of High rise hotels and apartments. Luckily the YHA hostel is about 4kms north in Mariners Cove. It's okay as there are a few lively pubs nearby plus the hostel runs a free courtesy bus back into town. So that's what i did.

Don't get me wrong Surfers is nice, is just got a planned feel about it and is very resorty. They've even put in an artificial reef to improve the surfing conditions. The big theme parks are nearby. There's loads of 'Bad BOYS' in there clapped out motors with phat exhausts on (sorry Big Steve). All the Cruisers hang out on the Esplanade and I note that here even the guys wear those furry moon boots.

You can do a Slingshot or play minigolf here and everything else that you can do in Tenerife. A new one on me was the 'Vomatron' apparently its the ride the astronauts feared and it looks pretty crazy to me.

Watched a snake show which was pretty interesting. He confirmed how many dangerous animals there are in Oz, but really the likely hood of getting bitten is minimal especially if you're sensible. You shouldn't let it ruin your plans to come here.

I couldn't find a shop that sold bolt cutters or a hacksaw so I guess my night will be spent going through the 10000 combinations on my padlock.

Saturday 29th May 2004, Day 259/366 - Byron Bay, New South Wales.

Was it really 5 years ago?

Today is my 5th wedding anniversary. Well it would be had I not got divorced 1 year ago today too. It was also one year ago today that I returned from South Africa.

What better way to celebrate than a spot of Beach Fishing ($55) as suggested by Griffb (it's his brother in law). It meant a 6.30 start, but I've got time to recover.

We caught a few Whiting between us, but (as ever) the big one got away. At least we managed to feed the sea kites and it's not about catching it's about getting out there.

When I got back I took a walk up to the beach at Byron Bay. I can safely say that it's the most stunning view from a beach that I've seen. Maybe I caught it on an exceptionally good day, there wasn't a cloud in the sky, there was blue for as far as the eye could see. The town itself is full of tourists and shops that cater for them.

Friday 28th May 2004, Day 258/366 - Coffs Harbour, New South Wales to Byron Bay, New South Wales.

Y O Y O spells YOYO

Everyone is Coffs Harbour seems to walk around in Denim mini skirts and those furry moon boot things. By everyone I mean girls of course. Come to think of it I may have just followed the same girl round all day.

Next stop Byron Bay. Watched 'Just Married' on the bus. Normal dross made even worse by the normal soppy Hollywood ending. Life really isn't like that. I'm learning.

When you arrive at Byron Bay it's the first time that I feel like i've arrived in a Backpackers resort. There are 8 Hostel minivans waiting at the bus stop to whisk us off the hostels.

Getting a bit tired of seeing the same faces in the hostels. Actually it's just one guy and it's only the 2nd time I've seen him, but enough already.

Thursday 27th May 2004, Day 257/366 - Coffs Harbour, New South Wales.

Bagged, Tagged and Released.

Got back to the hostel very very late or was it early. What started as a quiet night on my own watching the Rugby turned out very differently.

Too much Sambucca and too little sleep put pay to today being a productive day. I managed to do a little wandering round the shops, before an afternoon nap was called for and an evening in front of the TV with the promise of an early night and the hope of more good things tomorrow.

Wednesday 26th May 2004, Day 256/366 - Port MacQuarie, New South Wales to Coffs Harbour, New South Wales.

You looked so comfortable like that

Went for a run down the coast. Can you get bored of Coastal Paths? I really struggle to get motivated for running, but when I'm done I feel great. I even feel that I've deserved my Bacon and Eggs today.

Read Hitler Military Commander by Rupert Matthews. I think the man bit off more than he could chew. The cheese definately slipped off the cracker there.

When I got to the hostel in Coffs Harbour there was a guy in his bed with a fresh plaster cast on his leg looking a bit sorry for himself.

Bloo - "That looks nice and fresh"
Guy - "yeah I did it the other day"
Bloo - "Oh no, so how did you do it?" Expecting something exciting like surfing or sky diving or rock climbing.
Guy - "I feel off that bunk there" pointing to the bed I'd chosen " and now my leg is broken"
Bloo - "You must have been drunk"
He wasn't

Big night in the Egg chasing (league stylee tonight). It's the 1st game in the State of Origin Series. New South Wales taking on Queensland. It's a bit like Yorkshire v Lancashire but bigger. Anyway it was a good excuse for a beer.

All the hype was well worth it. The game started at 100 mph and ended on a golden point. NSW winning.

I was asking myself the question "Am I meant to be with anyone?". You what I don't think I am. I need to be me.

Met a couple in the bar who offered free alcohol. So out came the Sambucca's. It was this time last year that I tried it for the first time in South Africa. Hadn't touched it since.

Tuesday 25th May 2004, Day 255/366 - Port MacQuarie, New South Wales.

More Koalas

After 255 days of wear my trousers have finally given way. I worn a hole in the bum. Nice.

Went to Cafe Norma Jeans for breakfast. I was the youngest pby at least some 50 years of the 20 patrons. I think that sums up Port MacQuarie.

The highlight of the Port is the Koala Hospital and the highlight of the Koala hospital is the 3pm feeding, mainly coz this is the only time that our furry little friends bother moving. Most of the inmates are victims of Chlamydia, but also RTA's, Dog attacks and bush fires. You've got to respect the work that the staff do and the little fellas too. How do they stay attached to the those trees for 20 hours? It looks very uncomfortable.

Monday 24th May 2004, Day 254/366 - Charlestown, New South Wales to Port MacQuarie, New South Wales.

Thanks

Bye Bye and Thanks to Vincent, Jacinta, Joshua, Jacob and Lachlan and Mum for my few days off the beaten track. Cooked Brekky everyday yummy!

Next leg is to Port MacQuarie, 4 hours up the coast.

I finished Bill Bryson's - An African Diary. It's a very short book written for the CARE Charity about there work in Kenya.

Watched 'Keeping the Faith' on the bus. Bit rubbish, but it does prove that Women and Men can't just be friends after well you know. Except in Hollywood of course, which kind of spoilt the film. Why does everything need to be fluffy. Life ain't like that.

The hostel is very homely. That another word for quiet and strict. I don't mind. I'm 28 years old you know. Again I ask the question, why do Americans have to talk so loudly.

Went out to THE bar in the Port with a few of the boys from the hostel. Does anyone else find it strange that I had to ask for them to put the Australia v Turkey football match on 1 the 20 big screens. I could watch the England v New Zealand Cricket, but not the football. I know it's a Monday night, but even so the Port is VERY quiet.

Sunday 23rd May 2004, Day 253/366 - Charlestown, New South Wales.

Eric Bana

Finished another book. 'Playing the Moldovans at Tennis' is Tony Hawks follow up book after 'Round Ireland with a Fridge'. Boy does the guy love a strange bet. This book is very funny. Much better than the first in my humble opinion.

Apparently here (I don't know about the rest of Oz) there is a cat curfew. If you own a cat it has to be indoors by 9.00 pm or it will be shot, (probably by a Tanner). I added that last bit for effect. Apparently they are a danger to the wildlife. Jacinta's cat has recently killed 2 possums.

I was forced into watching another Aussie movie. 'The Nugget' this time. Again not too bad and I really wonder how Eric Bana went from this to 'Troy'.

Saturday 22nd May 2004, Day 252/366 - Charlestown, New South Wales.

FA Cup Final

FA Cup Final day and I'm in Oz.

Went out for a drive. Started out at Mount Sugarloaf which today had a hazy view back over Newcastle. We then carried on out to Cessnock in the heart of the Hunter Valley Wineries. Went into a few wineries, but didn't sample any of the goods, too many asians and really I don't care what it tastes like, just that it gets me drunk. We had lunch in Morpeth which was very pleasant.

Decided to do something energetic in the afternoon. The choice was snooker, golf or Squash. Stupidly I chose Squash. I haven't played in years, at least 15. I wasn't any good then either. Today though I had good control of the T, but that's no use if you can't hit the ball. In fact I don't think either of us hit any clean winners. All our points came from the opponent missing the ball or total mishits.

In the evening we went out to dinner with Jacinta (Vincents Sister) and Maureen (her friend). The FA Cup doesn't kick off till 12 here, so it's going to be a long night. What's the reason for Cook your own restaurants? Why bother going out?

As warmup to the FA Cup final the Super 12 final was on. The Brumbies (Canberra) beat the Crusaders (Christchurch) 47-38. Great display of attacking Rugby. Christchurch did well to make a game of it having conceded 5 tries in the first 20 minutes.

We holed up into an Irish bar in Hamilton. My mate behind the bar (the celt), switched the life band off at 5 minutes to midnight. They didn't understand why, but for some reason I had to watch the Cup Final. I wouldn't have been bothered had I been at home or maybe my interest lay in there being a huge underdog. This is going to sound a bit weird, but it felt good to hear Andy Gray and Martin Tyler again. I was engrossed in the game, but a little dissappointed that Millwall didn't get really stuck in. I promised Vincent Blood and Guts. We all know how it turned out.

I'm pleased to report that trying to find a taxi at 2am is hard all over the world. When you do find one the usual procedures apply. Namely giving the driver stick.

Friday 21st May 2004, Day 251/366 - Charlestown, New South Wales.

Sandboarding

Off to Port Stephens. They were talking about the Eurovision song contest on the radio. What's all that about?

At Anna bay we'd booked a 4x4 tour of the sand Dunes ($30). It's the largest moving sand mass in the southern hemisphere. 32kms of beach. We did a spot of sand boarding. basically find a large dune with a steep side, sit on a waxed board and push yourself over the edge. At the bottom you either stay upright or get a mouth full of sand.

We drove up to the highest lookout and got a terrific view along the whole beach. The beautiful white sand is growing and moving all the time. It's shipped out to Hawaii to make there beaches. So Jack was right.

It's amazing to think that the Japs were planning to invade here. How do you defend 32 kms of beach, let alone the whole east coast. They could land and you wouldn't know for weeks.

In a hollow in the dunes is a 'Tin city'. people just living out in the middle of the dunes. We chatted to Alwin from the village who was cleaning the fish he'd caught today and was having for dinner. It's a self contained life.

Beyond Thunderdome was filmed on these dunes. It was an interesting 2 hour tour.

We lunched in Nelson Bay which is a tourist destination.

in the evening we watched the Turks beat the Socceroos. 3-1

Thursday 20th May 2004, Day 250/366 - Charlestown, New South Wales.

Beaches and Karaoke

Lachlan - (out of the Blue) "What's a Microscope?"
Bloo - "Is that the sort of question that an ordinary 3 year old asks?"

Vincent took me on a tour of the beaches around Newcastle. We stopped at Redhead, Dudley and had a stroll around the nature reserve at Glenbrook. All the beaches were long, very sandy and very empty. It seemed like the ideal day to go to the beach to me, but apparently in Autralia it's too cold.

We went to the Blackbutt reserve which contains all the normal Australia animals, the kangaroos, emus, colourful birds and I got my first view of a wombat.

Newcastle is a small industrial city. Not really a tourist destination, but it does have some wonderful beaches.

I bought the new Morrisey Album. I wouldn't normally make the effort, but for Morrisey I will.

The family wanted to show me some classic Australian movies. I wasn't overly enthused by the prospect, but I was relatively impressed with 'The Castle'. It's dated, but still pretty funny. The only problem is that Australia only has about 20 actors. They appear in everything.

Joshua (12), Jacinta's (Vincent's sister) eldest is off on scout camp at the weekend so he was kitted out with Vincents backpack. Impressed with his ability to carry said backpack he proceeded to run round the house with backpack on, not realising that the hump was bigger than expected and everytime he turned round something else hit the floor.

We went in Hamilton for a few drinks in the evening. Ended up in a bar with Karaoke on. I was impressed with the standard to begin with and a little worried, but it's all okay becase it soon decended into the drunken English standards.

Wednesday 19th May 2004, Day 249/366 - Sydney, New South Wales to Charlestown, New South Wales.

Hawaii Friends Visited

Catching the Greyhound to Belmont (near Newcastle) to meet up and stay with Vincent. I met him in Waikiki on Jacks Tour, the same one where I met Liz. The tour has been good to me in the free accomodation and friends stakes. Vincent and I shared a few good nights out in Da Dawg House, drinking beer, eating pizza and playing pool and darts. Good Times.

Finished another book. An Amber Glow by Peter Allen. I picked this up for $1.95 in Bondi Junction and what an absolute bargain. It's actually the story of the World Cup winning football from 1966, which was stolen by a German after the game. This book is about the search for it and getting it back to English shores. It has lots of good anecdotes surrounding the game and proves that the press have no scrupples and are a law unto themselves.

I officially visited the worst toilets in the world ever (apart from maybe my experience in the Berlin Olympic Stadium, enough said). At the Sydney Bus terminal the bogs are disgusting. It has those blue lights that make your eyes go funny, there is graffitti everywhere and no doors on any of the cubicles. A sign explains why. "There are no doors on these toilets, due to acts of vandalism and lude conduct."

Bye Bye Sydney. As we crossed the Harbour Bridge all the glory of Sydney was revealed on a balmy winters day. The Opera House and Harbour were swathed in glorious sunlight. 9 nights is about the longest that I've spent anywhere (at my expense) and I could easily have stayed longer.

'Snow Dogs' was the film selected on the bus. It's a kids film and rubbish, but it does confirm Cuba Gooding Jr. as a superb and versatile actor and my desire to travel to Alaska.

After 3 hours on the bus, I was met by Vincent and we went to pick up his sisters kids and eventually got to his house and met his Mum, Sister and had a chinese, drunk red wine and watched a video.

'Lost in translation' was the video. A lot of people rave about it. For me it bypassed me. I hate films that leave me with more questions at the end of it. What did he whisper in her ear at the end?

I'm a bit worried about the Huntsman Spider saw outside his house and Vincent's nonchalent nature to its presence. I peed my pants and I didn't even see it.

Some Photos

Tuesday 18th May 2004, Day 248/366 - Sydney, Australia.

Rainforests and asians

Booked a day trip out to the Blue Mountains ($55) on the advice of my mate Vincent, who I met in Hawaii and am going to stay with tomorrow.

I think this could be a nightmare. The bus is full of asians. I see a white female face so I approach. She turns out to be a septic. Cue the Pyscho music. I go to sit at the back on my own.

The 1st stop is in Glenbrook in the lower Blue Mountains to see the mob of Kangaroos. What cool animals and they let you get very close to them too.

Next stop was Jamison Lookout where we took a hike down to the Wentworth Falls. There's some impressive views accross the valley.

I got talking to a graduate who is travelling for 6 weeks before starting his new job as an audior in LOndon. When I told him that I worked in Accounts and offered some pearls of wisdom he asked if I had been to uni and which professional qualifications I had. When I said he didn't he blanked me for the rest of the day. And that gentlemen is why I hate graduates and accountants. How dare that little turd judge me. He already has a patch of white hair, probably from taking life too seriously.

Then theres the Asian family. They had a fat little 8 year old kid who couldn't do the walks. When we left he was eating an ice cream. When we returned he was eating an ice cream. Bearing in mind there was 1.5 hours between this, I'm sure it wasn't the same ice cream. i just wonder how many he stuffed in between. He also cheered when lunch time was announced.

In the end it became a battle between the guide, who was trying to inform us off what we were looking and adding some beef to the bones, and the asians, who he was rudely interrupting what they were going to be having for tea. No doubt it would be ice cream for dessert.

There was another asian couple, who actually turned out to be from San Diego and were very septic. Should of realised when he wore his sunglasses on the back of his head.

The tour continued on to Echo Point to look over the aborigine legend the 3 sister and then on to Scenic world. We took the 1000 step hike down to the rainforest floor. At the bottom the guide went funnel web spider hunting. Yep the most dangerous spider in the world and he was in search of it. He didn't find it. I was happy deluding myself that they weren't here. Call me naive.

We took the scenic railway back up to the top. Apparently its the steepest in world at 52 degrees. Then it was back to Sydney. Top day. The tour is a good lesson in Nature and Culture. The tour guide, Dave, was again top man.

I also learnt recently that the reason why they ask you keep you seat belt done up in a plane because when it crashes they know who it is from the manifest. Also You have to put your head between your knees, not to kiss you ass goodbye, but apparently when you hit the floor your neck breaks easier in that way. Cheery and probably bull.

Monday 17th May 2004, Day 247/366 - Sydney, Australia.

Olympic Stadium

Well Aldershot failed in there bid to return to the football league. They lost 3-0 on penalties after drawing 1-1 AET. I feel miles away from it all.

I moped around so much yesterday that I couldn't sleep when I went to bed. Bloody typical. So I feel lousy today again.

Walked into town. The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is worth a visit. It's a nice old shopping arcade.

I caught a train up to Olympic Park. $4.80. This is what I expect from an Olympic Park. At this site the track and field, swimming, hockey, tennis etc. were all played. All the stadia are still being used and the athletes village is now been sold off and a new suburb created. Interestingly the suburb, Newbridge, is power souly by solar power and watered by recycled water.

The Track and Field Stadium, Stadium Australia, was notably the site of Englands World Cup Egg Chasing Triumph however it is now known as Testra Stadium. More corporate sponsorship. At least it's not a baseball field now. You can do a tour of the stadium, but $26 was a bit steep even for my liking.

I chose to do the walking tour $11.25 where you get talked through all the details of the planning and space that was used to create the park. I can't imagine it being held in England. We just haven't got the space or the infrastructure to hold the modern Olympics.

In the afternoon I went to watch Van Helsing. Very pretty, but a pile of poo.

Sunday 16th May 2004, Day 246/366 - Sydney, Australia.

day off

Felt grotty today so just moped about all day. No it wasn't alcohol induced.

Saturday 15th May 2004, Day 245/366 - Sydney, Australia.

On a mission

Wallked down to Circular Quay to catch the ferry to Manly. $5.80. Works out as a cheap harbour cruise. On the ferry we had our very own devil woman. She sounded just like Gollum. Manly's a nice little place.

Caught the bus up to Palm Beach. It's the setting for Summer bay in Home and Away. Not a fan of the show, but felt I had to come and pay homage. Plus it's a bloody nice place. It's situated 40 kms north of sydney so I guess this is a select area to live.

Apparently the Surf shack and Diner are up here, but I can't find them and I'll be buggered if I'm going to ask anyone for directions. So I caught the bus back into Sydney. I feel like I've been on public transport all day and I'm not done yet.

I caught a train out to Cronulla. $5.80 and about 45 minutes. What's he going there for I hear you ask. You've probably guessed it's sport related. This time it's egg chasing league stylee. I actually prefer league to Union. It's a bit more primitive and less technical.

League is the game of choice around Sydney. Most of the teams in the NRL are Sydney based. I've always enjoyed watching league on Grandstand in the good old days. I even went to watch the London Broncos plays a few years back in the World Club Challenge. With the advent of the Super League and the subsequent change to a summer game, it provides my weekend sports viewing in the closed football season.

The game itself went according to script with the top of the table Sydney Roosters beating the cronulla Sharks. 38-18.

Getting a bit tired of all the bloody whinging Aussies. 'It's so cold.' They don't know the meaning of the word. This is tropical. There all sat round in Hats and scarves and big jackets, where I'm in a T shirt and fleece. If they think this is cold, they should come and watch some football in January in the UK.

What is it with Mobile phone ring tones nowadays. It's embarrasing. That's why my phone is always on mute. All I want is Bring Bring, not some crap techno tune.

Finished another book. Tom Sharpe - Blott on the Landscape. Very clever, very easy to read and funny to boot.

Friday 14th May 2004, Day 244/366 - Sydney, Australia.

Boring Blog

Nursing another hangover so had an admin morning. Why can't I lie in anymore. Tried to phone Briggsy, but she fell asleep on my. Don't worry I don't mind waking up at 6.30, with a hangover, to call you and you be fast asleep.

I think my blog has been a bit dull recently. You guys love a crisis. You all rally round, but when I'm just going here and there and doing this and that it all goes very quiet. So I'm going to throw a few of my recent random thoughts at you and see what you think.

I want to run the London Marathon.

The more and more I think about it the less I think that people are meant to be together.

I want to do a challenge for Charity.

I don't believe in love at first sight. Those urges are lust.

I don't want to be an Accountant.

I was married, but I'm better now.

I want to do my FA Coaching Badges.

I want to study some type of Sports Degree.

Why is the UK the only place where you can get Sugared Popcorn. Oz and NZ only do salted and the US only do buttered. Salted is my favorite, but really I only like the burnt Kernels at the bottom of the bag.

Went to watch Troy which came out today. It was about all i can manage. As you know it stars Brad Pitt as Achilles and Legolas as some weasel with Black hair, mind he is pretty handy with a bow and wins in the end. It's a good film, but I'm sure Hollywood changed some of the story for effect. I'll have to read the book now. The films similar to Braveheart and Gladiator, you know the format. There's lots of corny camera shots and male bodies, too many for my liking. Then some women nearly kills Brad, but sleeps with him instead. How often does that happen in real life? Long film.

So lets talk about the people in my dorm. I know you used to like this B. So there a Brit from Uxbridge who's nice. Then there the yank from North Carolina who's also nice, total surfer and was worried about taking Didgeridoo shaped bong back through customs. Lastly there's the Aussie who clearly isn't all there and smells a bit funny.

Thursday 13th May 2004, Day 243/366 - Sydney, Australia.

Bondi, Scotty and $5 steaks

Caught the local train out to Bondi Junction ($2.85). Takes about 15 minutes. I then followed my nose down to the beach. That takes about 30 minutes. Gorgeous winters day on the beach. My kind of beach weather. In the 20's lovely. Lots of surf as well. I reckon even I could catch a wave. Bondi is much different to how I imagined it. It's smaller and set in a little cove.

I followed the coastal walk south towards Coogee passing the lovely Tamarama, Clovelly and Bronte Beaches. Its a beautiful coastal walk, including the cemetery where I now would like to be buried, overlooking the ocean.

In Coogee I had a pink face and a thirst so I went to the TAB. Meeting Scottie (a mate from home) in Coogee. Everytime I've met him, we've both been drunk and playing pool. I'm sure tonight will be no different.

Scotties' working out here and living in Coogee.

We walked through the University campus to a Student Bar, where we ordered $5 Steaks and drank copious amounts of alcohol. Scottie is a legend with the ladies. He 'knows' the barmaid so we got cheap drinks all night. He says things to them that I could never get away with. I know coz I tried. They just look at him all doughy eyed. They just blank me. There was Helen however, who's claim to fame I can't even begin to describe.

Another worrying feature coming out of the evening is that everyone now seems to be able to guess my age. Up until about a year ago, I still looked 12, but now the signs of aging are showing. Or am I kidding myself

So much for the early night. Scotties got work at 6am. I think we left the pub at 1am and I still had to get the bus home.

I love this joke

The CIA had an opening for an assassin. After all the background checks, interviews, and testing were done, there were three finalists... two men and a woman. For the final test, the CIA agents took one of the men to a large metal door and handed him a gun. "We must know that you will
follow your instructions, no matter what the circumstances. Inside this room, you will find your wife sitting in a chair. Kill Her!!!"

The man said, "You can't be serious. I could never shoot my wife."

The agent said, "Then you're not the right man for this job. Take your wife and go home."

The second man was given the same instructions. He took the gun and went into the room. All was quiet for about five minutes. Then the man came out with tears in his eyes. "I tried, but I can't kill my wife."

The agent said, "You don't have what it takes. Take your wife and go home."

Finally, it was the woman's turn. She was given the instruction to kill her husband. She took the gun and went into the room. Shots were heard, one shot after another. They heard screaming, crashing, banging on the walls. After a few minutes, all was quiet. The door opened slowly and there stood the woman. She wiped the sweat from her brow. "This gun is loaded with blanks", she said. "I had to beat him to death with the chair."

Wednesday 12th May 2004, Day 242/366 - Sydney, Australia.

Bridges, Opera Houses, Campo and Killing Bill 2

This is the one year anniversary of me passing my bike test. No Idea why I remember that.

Felt pretty ropey when I woke up this morning. I blame Glennis for my sore throat.

It's pretty gusty out, but still much warmer than Canberra and Melbourne.

I walked down through Hyde park, stopping at the Anzac memorial, the reflecting pool and the Archibald fountain. Then I was there at Sydney Harbour with the bridge and the Opera House. 2 of the most famous landmarks in the world and I'm here. Excuse me whilst I pinch myself.

They are both far bigger than I imagined. The Opera House is a remarkable structure.

At circular Quay there is a fantastic network of ferries, running like a railway.

The Rocks is a nice area of the city at the base of the bridge. It's so nice that David Campese (Campo) owns a little shop there. He was in, but was on the phone so I didn't get the chance to call him an arrogant w@nker or ask if he still thought that Oz were better than England at Egg Chasing.

I climbed the Harbour Bridge pylon ($8.50). you can climb the actual bridge, but it cost $155 and takes 3.5 hours. Some facts. The span of the bridge is 503 metres, but it's total length is over 1100 metres. It took nearly 8 years to build and was finished in 1932. In total it cost 10057170 pounds 7 shilling and 9 pence.

Darling Harbour has the Aquarium, the Imax, more chances to cruise the harbour and lots more cafes.

I went to watch Kill Bill 2. Not sure why as I didn't like the first one. There's a great fight scene between Daryl Hannah and Uma Thurman, but I still don't entirely see the point of the film. It's much better than the first part and not as blood thirsty, but still way too long. At one point Bill says the C U next tuesday word. Its so wrong coming out of an Americans mouth. Just like when they say W@nker.

Everyone loves Sydney and that's why I thought I wouldn't, but I do.

Tuesday 11th May 2004, Day 241/366 - Canberra, Australia to Sydney, Australia.

Harry Potter

Spent the morning catching up on my blog, reading and waiting for my 16.00 bus to Sydney.

Finished the first Harry Potter book. Dunno what all the fuss was about. In my opinion it was nothing like as good as Roald dahl. It's not even that well written. All media bloody hype. I think the movie was a good adaptation.

When you get out of the city you can see so much sky. It's different to the NZ sky as everything here appears very brown. As the sun sets it all takes on beautiful browny orange tint.

When you arrive in Sydney you straight away know your in a big city. In actual fact the population is similar to Melbourne, but it feels bigger. I guess it's all the visitors.

The YHA is right next door to the main train station. It's big, it's got a cafe and bar, but it also has a nice feel to it.

Monday 10th May 2004, Day 240/366 - Canberra, Australia.

Concrete Jungles

Happy Birthday Sam and Macca!

After 10 hours on the bus I arrived in Canberra at 7.00 am. Bloody Knackered, but I've only got a day here so need to explore. The Hostel picked me up from the Greyhound station and I caught the bus back into the city. It's a concrete jungle.

I bought an Aussie prepaid phone. Cost $79 and includes $50 worth of calls. Should save me some money on my UK mobile. Number is 0061409691040 if anyone wants to call or text. God I sound desparate.

I didn't expect a lot of Canberra so in that respect it didn't disappoint. It's probably slightly duller than I expected. I've got 31 hours here and that's probably 25 hours too many. It's not nice, but it's not horrible, it was just nothing.

Canberra is Australia's Capital. Basically they picked a site in between Sydney and Melbourne and made a new city. It's very functional. At this time of year the grass is brown and the leaves are turning colour and the Commonwealth Park is very nice. The city as a whole is very sectioned and spread out. The words dead and dated spring to mind.

Nothing really took my fancy as places to visit. It's bloody cold too. You should probably spend you $30 and take a tour bus around the sights.

When I was heading back to the hostel on the bus, I was chatting the lady next to me. I said that I'd had a long journey and was going back to the hostel for a snooze, it was about 14.00. She said "Yeah, you do look tired." Thats the sort of thing that I would say.

Sunday 9th May 2004, Day 239/366 - Melbourne, Australia to Canberra, Australia.

Oz Greyhounds

We went back to the ground to watch the young academy sides. There were U9's, U12's, 2x U14's, U16's, U18's and girls teams all playing. By the looks of things Macca has a tough job on. It's a terrific idea, but they need more talent.

Opted for a beer and a bath and Glennis' chicken Fajitas as opposed to Varta's BBQ. Glennis wanted to go to the BBQ to save her cooking, but it'd be a bit rude turning up just for food and then buggering off.

They dropped me off at the Greyhound Station in town and I was on my tod again with the 21.00 bus to Canberra. I must Thank Ian and Glennis. I had a really nice time with them. It was good to see them in their true light. Malaka's

My first experience of Oz Greyhounds is not dissimilar to the US ones. They're a bit more organised (with allocated seating) and the clientelle are slightly classier. Oh and the buses have proper chemical toilets.

They had some Colin Firth film on. The one where he's Lord Dashwood and finds out he has an illegitimate daughter. Soppy Shite!

Saturday 8th May 2004, Day 238/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

Beer and TAB

Spent the day at Macca's football club watches his charges. There was a first and reserve game. Both teams are very young and lost to much more experienced sides.

Afterwards we went to a local bar for food and beer. It also had a TAB which was a bonus.

We then went back to another coaches house to watch the Aussie Rules. Aussie Rules is the game in this part of Australia.

Friday 7th May 2004, Day 237/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

The Good old Days

We all lay in for far too long today. I think it's too many late nights sat around the table, drinking beer, eating pizza and old football days when Aldershot went bust, Macca was manager and I was a wee whipper snapper on the terraces of the East Bank.

I look back on those days with rose tinted glasses. It was obviously very difficult to see my team go through there death throes but I felt part of something special. When they reformed in 1992 it never felt the same to me. After all we were winning games and the crowds had quadrupled. Hardly anyone wanted to know the old club and suddenly everyone was on the band wagon.

I still follow the results and ironically this could be the season when they get back into the football league as they play Shrewsbury on the Playoff final on the 16th May. Can someone record it for me? Sky Sports One.

I divulge. I went into the city today and booked my onward travel and accomodation for Canberra and Sydney. In the US you could just show up and get on. Here you have to book your seat.

In the afternoon we headed over to Werribee open Range Zoo ($18). I love Meerkats. We had a truck ride around the park and saw Pelicans, Wallabies, Emus, Hippos, kangaroos and all the usual african animals. They've done a nice job here. Not a lot of species, but they're working hard. It's probably one of the nicest looking zoos that I've been to.

I already find myself talking about things that I've done.

"When I was in Hawaii......."

i've got to be careful, not to always talk about me. People will get very bored very quickly.

We stayed in to watch the Friday night footy. It's a local derby between the Western Bulldogs and the Essenson Bombers. Macca is trying to understand it as he is here for 4 years. Plus we had a bet riding on it. The commentary is funny. They slate the players when they don't get up from a hit. Calling them pussy's and all sorts. The bet went pete tong. We had great odds ($8.70) for Essendon to win by 13-24 points. They won by 26 and the final 6 pointer was scored with 7 seconds on the clock.

Thursday 6th May 2004, Day 236/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

Penguin Parade

Took a drive down to Phillips Island. Man Melbourne sprawls for miles and has a very confusing road system and signs. It seemed to take ages to get out of the city, but eventually we made it after about 2.5 hours.

Phillips Island is a little island at the bottom of the peninsula that is accesible by bridge. It shares a lot of it's place names with the IOW.

We called in a the Koala Conservation Centre ($8.50). It was very pleasant, with a eucalyptus wood with a boardwalk around the branches and 35 koalas in it. It's nice to see Koalas doing what comes naturally, which is sleeping and they do that for 20 hours a day. They do eat occassionally as well. There was also a Kookaburra there too.

Afterwards we went into Cowes. Phillip Island is very setup for tourists and as it's out of season was very quiet and most places were shut. So instead of treating Glennis to a slap up lunch we had a pie and a punt in the TAB (betting shop). I like Macca's style.

We headed to the nobbies which is a couple of islands just off the bottom of Phillips Island. The seals were miles away and the blowhole wasn't blowing. It was however very reminiscent of the NZ Coastline.

The highlight of the day was to be the Penguin Parade ($16). The Penguins on show are Fairy Penguins, the smallest penguin in the world. They naturally come home every night, just after dark, to there man made homes, with up to 4000 spectators every night. It's cool, coz they just appear on the beach. All you can see is the reflection from there white breasts. They have a wee rest, pluck up the courage and then waddle up the beach to there homes.

It's intensely frustrating watching nature takes it's course. Mainly coz it cold, wet and windy. I did miss out on the penguins in Oamaru so I'm glad I did it. I didn't expect there to be a big brass band, but I did think they'd come up in one big group as opposed to small groups. They are tiny. About a foot tall.

It's impressive how they know that's it's an hour after dark before they come in and an hour before light before they go back out. It protects them against predators you see.

Wednesday 5th May 2004, Day 235/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

Why's it called a Goal?

Glennis and I went to the Old Melbourne Gaol ($12.50). An american was heard to say "Why it's called a Goal?". He looked even more confused as they tried to explain to him that it's old english and is pronounced jail. Poor guy just couldn't get it. I'd like to say more, but I'll bite my tongue. Needless to say I had a good old rant at Glennis about imbeciles.

The gaol itself is fairly interesting. There are lots of death masks and stories to read. Really they could do with tape recording so you can listen and not have to read. The most famous inmate and person to be hanged here is Ned Kelly. They still have the gallows and trap door in the gaol.

We then walked down to the Crown Casino down on the Yarra river. It's almost on Vegas proportions with its indoor dancing fountains. We met here as Ian, being a former pro footballer, loves a punt on the nags. No stereotypes here. Actually we all do.

When we got back home Ian got out his scrapbook. He was signed by Bill Shankly at Liverpool, but suffered a broken leg in his first reserve game and never made it back. He ended up spending 11 years at Aldershot ending up as manager just before the old club went bust and that is why he is a legend. "Ian McDonalds Red and Blue Army".

Went to football training again in the evening. I had a run out. I thought I'd stayed relatively fit, but I was wrong. I was okay on the long distances, but the doggies killed me. It was nice to have a session. If only I had the ability to match my enthusiasm.

Tuesday 4th May 2004, Day 234/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

Aldershot Legend

Read book number 21. The Bodyguards story, by Trevor Rees-Jones. It provides a detailed account of the month running up to the Paris car crash that killed Diana. It's a one sided story, but I guess we'll never know what really happened. I sceptical about reading it, but I found it rivetting. It was interesting about the media. They reported that his tongue had been ripped out in the crash. It never had, but it didn't stop an American company sending him talking computer to help him speak. The detail they go into on his face surgery, is gorey yet fascinating.

When I got in yesterday afternoon I had a very nice phone conversation with Ian McDonald (Aldershot Legend). I used to work with his wife, Glennis, at Marks and Spencer. It was a long time ago and my Mum gave me there number. She'd worked with Glennis for a long time.

It's always weird phoning someone up who you don't think will remember you.

"Hi Ian. This is Stuart Reeves, I used to work with Glennis and I'm not really sure why I calling, but I am in Christchurch at the moment."

I had thought that maybe we could meet up for beer, but as it turns out they are coming over to pick me up to stay at there place for a few days. I was just wondering when I left Christchurch the other day when the next time I would see a friendly face now. I guess I know now.

Last night was the Neighbours 'Meet the Stars' do for $35. They come out and pick you up from the hostels and take you out to an English pub in St Kilda that's full of young English Backpackers.

I have to say that I felt totally underdressed, bloody vain people. How do they fit it all into there backpacks and why do they bother? There is a fantastic ration of girls to boys. I've just got to impress them with my neighbours knowledge. No chance there then. There's also far too many feminine blokes.

The stars tonight are Doctor Carl Kennedy, some bloke who was runner up in the Australian Big Brother and a special guest appearance all the way from Summer By in Alf Ramsey (legend).

All the stars came out to huge cheers and screams (not mine). They were asked questions that had been posed by the audience. Doctor Carl sang 'Happy Birthday' to some girl and Alf did his flaming galla act, big brother guy was a twat.

Afterwards the stars came round all the tables introducing themselves and having a million photos taken. They loved it. Meanwhile a trivia quiz is going on. We finished 6 out of 42 which I think is a very resonible effort. Had a fantastic night. It's a great way to meet people.

I managed to drop my phone in the urinal last night. It seems to be working okay, just smells a bit funny. Serves me right for trying to text and pee at the same time.

Woke up not feeling my best this morning. I had a couple of poached eggs and they seemed to sort me out.

I'm very embarrassed to be reading Harry Potter, but I want to find out what all the hype was about. I feel like a kid as opposed to the sophisticated individual that I clearly am.

Ian and Glennis came and picked me up in the morning. They've been out here for a couple of months. Ian has come out here to run a football academy. Glennis has taken a sabatical from M&S and is a lady of leisure at the moment. They're borrowing a house from one of the students families and I am the first guest, hence we had to go out and buy me some bedding.

They are living out in Altona Meadows, a suburb to the west of Melbourne. I have never seen anything like the house they are borrowing. OMG. I had been warned, but nothing could prepare me for what I saw. I've never encountered such alot of 70's tat all in one place, except maybe graceland.

There's a tiled mirror wall, you have the living that clearly can't be lived in, there's pink coving in every room, they have shrines to Mary and Jesus in the living room, the're photo's of millions of relatives (I guess), but they look more like victims that are buried under the patio. In the back garden there is another Mary shrine that lights up automatically at 8 pm. There's also a stuffed possum and duck on the patio. The bathroom has a low level window right next to the bath that has a beautiful view of the park. There's a twin tub washing machine. What a palavour that is. I'd rather buy new clothes and burn my old ones than go through that every time. Luckily Glennis is an expert. Thanks. Other favorites are the ancient TV's with no comfy chairs to sit in, the owner has left his false teeth by the kitchen sink, the see through toilet seat and fluffy toilet roll tidy in the shape of a woman. There's plastic flowers everywhere. They must have got a job lot on the light fittings, they are all brown tinted glass dangly thingys. There's a four foot cross stitch of Jesus carrying the cross in the main bedroom and a giant set of rosary beads in my room. There are loads of crosses that either light up or play a tune or something.

I've never seen such an impractical house to live in. Poor old Glennis is tearing her hair out. I just laughed and took about 50 photo's.

In the evening we went to the training ground in Richmond. As with all football clubs they are arguing with the former club, the council and each other so had to do the training down the swimming pool.

I had intended to leave on Thursday for Canberra, but I've the promise of football games at the weekend so I can check out what Macca has on his hands.

Has anybody ever seen Canoe Water Polo? Crazy B@stards.

Monday 3rd May 2004, Day 233/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

Neighbours

Had stir fry in the hostel cafe last night. It was bloody lovely apart from the 2 gay guys sat next to me flirting.

I decided to be a social whirl and not go to bed early. So I stayed up and watched Red Dragon in the Dayroom. I only saw the second 2 films in the trilogy the other day and was looking forward to it. Unfortunately the DVD was cracked and kept jumping. They put 'The Ring' on instead which was absolute sphericals.

This morning I'm booked on the Ramsey Street tour. Yep the 'Neighbours' Street. It cost $25 and they picked me up from the hostel. I was worried that i'd be the only person on the tour, but I was wrong. There was 19 of us. All English, all young and mainly girls.

Now it's fair to say that I am a little bit behind on the Neighbours stakes. I stopped watching it in 1991 when I left school. I'm happy to report that Neighbours acheived cult status at DYRMS. I vividly remember everyone running back from the last class to catch the 17.35 daily episode. The dayroom was packed and everyone was gutted if you were first mess as it meant you missed the last few minutes. Fortunately I was in Wellington so I didn't miss as much as someone in Marlborough.

I hope that Joe Mangle, Bouncer, Melanie, Paul Robinson, The twins (with the weird mouths), Bronwyn, Helen Daniels, Daphne, Des, Lou Carpenter, Fat Harold, Madge, Henry, Charlene and Scott are all still in it.

It was such a funny trip. Total cheese. Fantastic. We drove out to Ramsey Street in Erinsborough (not really) and went through all the individual houses and the unlikely storylines that have gone on around them. Erinsborough is actually an anagram of Neighbours. I learnt that and many other useless facts. It turned out that the coolest looking bloke was the biggest Neighbours Stato known to man.

On the bus out to the suburb we watched Neighbours new musical DVD including such classics as Holly Vallance, Kylie doing the Locomotion, Jason doing too many broken hearts, Craig McLachlan doing Mona and the truly atrocious Stefan Dennis (Slimes) and the twins. I was worried that the songs didn't appear old to me.

I had a flashback, at school I had a Kylie calender. I remember it. It was right next to my Spurs one.

We all decided that Bouncer was the best actor to come out of Neighbours.

Ramsey Street is a real street, with real houes, with real people living in them. It much smaller than it appears on TV.

I totally forgot that Natilie Imbruglia and Guy Pearce were in it.

We did a drive past of the Studio. Not alot access to that. Thats were all the sets are. It's also where Prisoner Cell Block H was filmed. Another Cult show.

We also drove passed Erinsborough High.

On the way back we got to choose which episode we would like to watch from the Defining Moments DVD. Of course everyone choose Scott and Charlenes wedding. All those Mullets and Angry Anderson doing Suddenly. Ah Memories.

Apparently Vegetarianism is an eating disorder. Such an Aussie opinion.

In other news I bought a bus pass to Cairns from Melbourne. Cost $370 and I have 90 days to get there.

Sunday 2nd May 2004, Day 232/366 - Melbourne, Australia.

The YHA on Queensberry Hill is a YHA flagship hostel. It is bloody lovely. It has good facilities, including a cafe. So it was Poached Eggs on Toast and Bacon for breakfast. Luvly!

Why do Americans talk so loud? Now I know I've been down this path before, a few times in fact, but if you can't tell them by there Star Spangled Banner Sweater or College Hoodie then you can't miss there accents. Today's candiates are the old geezers from New York. They were like something out of 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' and offered such as "I liked Reagan as an actor, but not as president." at 40 decibels. Really, very incitful.

Walked down through the Queen Victoria Market, which was very nice and ended up down by the Yarra River. I love how quickly you can go from City Block to this.

It wasn't the reason why I came down here though. I came to look at the Rod Laver Arena - where the Open Tennis is held, the Vodafone Arena - where I'm not sure what goes on, but mainly to see the Olympic Park - where the Melbourne Storm (league) play. I expected there to be some tribute to the 1956 Olympic games being held here, but there was nothing. It was very underwhelming. At least there hadn't turned the stadium into a baseball park. It was still being used by athletes to train in.

I found a lovely secluded spot in the park to read my book. It was by a pond, with a bridge and surrounded by bushed. An excellent windbreak. All was peaceful until another chuffing wedding party turned up. What is the fascination with getting married? Why are they all oriental?

Melbourne has loads of bookshops. I spent my day browsing through them. I do worry about myself you know.

Saturday 1st May 2004, Day 231/366 - Christchurch, New Zealand to Melbourne, Australia.

I'm so proud of myself. Last night I actually said "Please can I have an Export Gold" instead of "Can I get ....."

As you can tell I failed in the early night stakes. I was actually in bed fairly early, but didn't sleep. However, as my Mum always used to say "As long as you are resting." So I went to sleep late and woke up early (2am) for my 3.45am shuttle.

I've had a great 2 months in New Zealand. Emotionally very draining, but a terrific learning experience. I leave knowing and understanding more than I did and over the last 2 days my mind is now less scrambled.

Ever since I was a kid I've always wanted to go to Oz. It fascinated me. Mainly the Koalas and Kangaroos and the fact that it was on the other side of the earth. I used to want to be a pilot for QANTAS so that I could go to Oz everyday. I guess that proves how young I was. I then learnt that you need qualifications, which I never too and that you had to be acertain height. I'm not sure when/why I decided to become an accountant instead.

My new CD player, that I bought the other day for $40, is buggered. Hardly surprising really. It keeps stopping. Bloody thing.

I'm sad to be leaving New Zealand, I leave a piece of me here. I'm happy to be able to put things behind me. I'm excited about Oz. I have no preconceived ideas, no plans, no one to meet. I'm winging it and it feels good.

We picked up 2 Japs at the Airport hotel who were catching the Shuttle to the airport. Ever heard of walking?

I was allocated seat 8a. Which is very spooky, but it amused me.

What is it with bloody departure taxes. $25 it costs you to leave New Zealand.

I spoke to my Mum from the Departure Lounge. They went to see James Last last night. "How was it" I said. "Oh he's a bit modern for us now." Who'd have guessed it.

I figured that maybe I should open my Oz Lonely planet on the plane. The movie was 'Under a Tuscan Sun' so I figured that I had 4 hours to kill.

My first view of Oz was flat, featureless, brown, vast and the city looked built up.

Melbourne looked eerie and foreboding. I wish my camera could have taken a good shot of it. The city was a hazy silouette set on the sea.

On the ground everywhere feels a lot more used and a lot less pure than NZ.

I do love arriving at an international airport, claiming my baggage, clearing customs and exiting into Arrivals to the sea of expectant faces who are disappointed that it's only me. One day my ship will come in. (LOL) I love the fact that there is no one waiting for me.

On the drive in Melbourne looks quite industrial. There seems to be lots of construction going on. There are plenty of spanking Sky Scrapers and Condo's going up on the waterfront. Mind it is Oz's 2nd biggest city. Pop 3m

I caught the Skybus ($13) into the city centre and walked up to the hostel and it's only 10am. Feel like I've been up for hours, which of course I have. I've got to do something with my day. What better than to walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for some Aussie Rules Football.

Despite my initial fears I actually quite like Melbourne. It has a certain lived in feel to it and a touch of character. Flinders Street Station and the trams help.

I first saw Aussie rules on Transworld Sport at DYRMS and I've always wanted to go to the MCG. It's a shame I missed the cricket season. I love TWS. That is how I got to recognise all the Melbourne suburbs Collingwood, Essendon, St. Kilda all have Aussie Rules teams. The MCG holds about 90000 and is currently going through a large redevelopment. It don't look pretty from the outside. On the inside it's a massive bowl.

I can't remember the rules, but I do recall it being pretty brutal. The place is buzzing and there still 3 hours before kick off. The Essendon Bombers are playing the Sydney Swans. It cost $17.70 for general admission.

I had smelly breathe and dribbling nose man sat next to me. Very pleasant. Behind me I had annoying Kid who didn't know who was in the FA Cup final, despite him wearing a Manc Top. He knew all the words to all the adverts and persisted in singing along. Each team has a corny anthem (like the FA Cup song) and that's what they run on the pitch too. The kid knew all the words for both teams. At one point he asked his Dad 'Did Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin have a punch up to see who would be first to step on the moon.' Bless. The fans in general turn up to watch the game and not for the gimmicks.

Basic rules are 6 points for a goal, between the 2 big posts and 1 for a side, between the smaller posts. The game is a mix between Egg Chasing, Football and wrestling. There say there are no rules. The game appeared quite stop start initially as the play stops at every 'Mark', but really it's a fast game. It's all about getting your men free. Sydney kept the game very short and had a lot of runners whereas Essendon played a lot longer. The fans love it, especially the high tackles and getting at the Umpires. I learnt that Aussies really do use 'Mongrel' and it wasn't just made up by TV.

It's a simple game with not alot of strategy, enjoyable none the less. It got very exciting at the end with Sydney coming back into the game. There were plenty of Swans fans in the stands and it got quite feisty. Not badly, just banter. Attendance 38,946. The Bombers won 16-12-108 to 15-8-98. Make sense?

I did think about going to the evening game at the Telstra dome as it's a clash of the 2 top teams, but I really need feeding and sleep.

So much for Oz being warmer. I freezing the preverbials off.

Walking through a park there was a wedding party. Seeing that we'd been to the game the groom pipes up. "and the winner is?" "Well not you, Mate." I can be so cutting.

Most surprising find of the day was that Burger King is Burger King, it's Hungry Jacks.

Well my first day completed in Australia and not one dangerous creature encountered.