I met Phil on Thursday 18th Jan at Sydney airport. Many thanks to Kristy and Adam for putting me up for a few days. I taught their 18 month old son how to say “Cool” and do a thumbs up. Well almost. He now sticks his index finger up at people and says “Tool!”. I left before I could more damage.

Before arriving in Melbourne I had heard about bushfires and heatwaves. Everyone said how hot it was (40 degrees at 2am apparently one night). Phil and I have brought rain however. Small towns have been flooded and cut off, rather than burnt to a crisp. Melburnians have not seen such freak weather. I think they were pleased to see us.

We are here mainly for the Midsumma Lesbian and Gay Festival which started Friday with a concert and general party in the main square (Federation Square). Will post some pictures in due course - hopefully it will stop raining before we leave on Thursday!