The legend that is Liam McAleese greeted us as we set foot in lovely Melbourne and whisked us away to his gorgeous home in the country, where we met the lovely Terese, Bronagh, Declan and not forgetting Bizo the dog-cat!

We began to enjoy all the comforts of staying in a real life house, including the many beautiful meals, comfly beds complete with duvets, and the spa bath, which we stared at wide-eyed, unsure as to what to do with it. (Previously we had been on the brink of becoming ferral!) We were shown about the sights, including Ramsey street, in the glorious sunshine which has previously eluded us. Then up to Dandenong point where we got our first view of Melbourne in all its glory. A little cluster of skyscrapers in almost the heart of the countryside. Liam also introduced us to our first wild kangaroo, which seemed more excting than all of Steve's tame ones. We wormed our way into family life and even got to watch T.V. which greatly excited us all!

The next day we had an explore of the city centre by day and spent the night relaxing by the bay at St. Kilda. We then had a horrific day wandering around vineyards in the sunshine, swigging glasses of wine and nibbling on cheese. We haven't been treated well at all! P.S. may we recommend the late harvest Pinot Gris, which is delightful to the palate! oooooo!

Had a night out with the remaining two girls in St. Kilda, where we raised a glass, or 10, to Leah and Audrey, our recently fallen comrades! After yet another lie in we explored the Southbank area of the city, where Kylie aka Charlene made her debut appearance in street performing, much to her horror! Frequented yet another P.J.O'Brien's for a meal before hitting the casino, which was packed to the rafters with asians with more money than sense. We enjoyed a pyrotechniques display by the river front and encountered a wild possum on our way back to the car which we were very excited about! One final tour of the city, where we saw a Chinatown unlike any of the previous squalors we have been staying in, before heading home.

We would like to say cheers to Liam, Terese and all the family, you made us feel really welcome and we really had a great time - we promise it wasn't all abut the food!!

Melbourne rocks and we will hopefully be back soon - you should possibly move house, it was a lucky escape this time :)