Sunday, March 26, 2006

Commonwealth Games - Yarra Fish @ Night

About a month ago I posted about the Big Fish floating on the Yarra River. They are part of the Commonwealth Games festivities and every night since the Opening Ceremony they have been the centerpiece of a spectacular light, sound and water show. Mum, Dad and I went into the city last Monday to take a look.
After having dinner at Southbank our first stop was at the Victorian Art Centre Beach. There is a grassy bit between the Gallery and Concert Hall which is usually used by people for picnics or sometimes outside concerts. For the duration of the Games this grassy patch was covered with sand to transform it into a beach of sorts. There was a stage at one end for 'beach concerts' and there were a number of huts selling fast food and hiring out beach chairs. There was also a 'big screen' so beach goers could catch all the big events. It seemed to be quite popular. We walked along the Yarra on the Alexandra Gardens side as far as Swan Street before crossing over and finding a position on the opposite bank for a good view of the show.
The whole show lasted 10 minutes and lighting and water spouts were choreographed to a selection of music from the Opening Ceremony - including my favourite Under the Milky Way.
Personally, I think they should leave the fish there for always. Of course, regular users of the Yarra waterway may argue differently... Can't waterskiers during Moomba use them as a slalom course?

No comments: