G'Day Sheilas

Could not believe it when we drew back the blinds this morning and it was raining, we thought that our luck had run out with the weather but true to form within 2 hours the sun was blazing down it was a balmy 22 degrees and we were walking around the market at the arts centre picking up last minute souvenirs.

As luck would have it we also bumped into Superman at the market putting on a street performance for everyone down by the river. Richard got roped in to help with one of the acrobatic tricks. Superman must have hit bad times as he was collecting money for his performance but was very entertaining and he even had a cape.

We had lunch in the sun at Federation Square watching the crowds and the various other street entertainers which was good fun, and we even had time to fit in a cake at City Square before taking a walk down by the river and over the bridge to the MCG for the game. As it was our first 'Footie' game we needed a little guidance with the finer points and several rules but the game was very entertaining and a big crowd of just over 88,000 as it was Sheedy's (Essendon coach) and James Hird's (captain) last home game. And they had racked up 1,000 games between them.

Whilst at the game we even had the obligatory pie at half time, and very tasty they were too!!! Unfortunately Essendon were beaten by Richmond but we were treated to a spectacular fireworks display after the game. At the end 88,000 people spilled out onto the street of Melbourne all making their way back home with the city all lit up as a backdrop. It has been a good way to spend our last night in Melbourne as tomorrow we will board the overnight bus to Canberra. BOO!!!

Our time in Melbourne has been great and we have enjoyed every minute here but our next city calls. We must say a huge thank you to our wonderful hosts Archie, Jill and Richard who have looked after us so very well.

Lots of Love

M & M