New Year

Missing the annual New Year’s Eve party at the Groves house was sad, but Sydney did its best to show us a good time. Thanks to Colette’s suggestion, we bought tickets back in September for one of the viewing spots near the harbour for best viewing of the outstanding fireworks display. We went to the Lawn with the View event, which is held on the grounds of the Royal Botanic Garden. Tickets let you in to this high spot up above the Opera House, and also they provide a lovely box dinner. We arrived at about 6 and got in to claim our spot on the lawn around 7 or so. We had a great spot up near the front and could see very well, thanks to tips from Colette and Colman! It was a very relaxing evening of just hanging out doing some people watching and enjoying our dinners, and even taking a few naps! There was a perfectly respectable fireworks display at 9pm, they call that the kids’ fireworks because lots of people with little kids leave after that one.

Lighted boats parade around in the harbour

Just before midnight, there’s a countdown to midnight in the first major population center to welcome the new year (sorry New Zealand), then wow, the most amazing fireworks display I expect to ever see took place. I only got photos of the fireworks on the Harbour Bridge, but there are two (at least) fireworks barges with displays going on, and more on the bridge and from the Opera House roof. It’s everywhere and amazing. Makes a person think 2016 might just be OK!

Sydney also has a really efficient transportation system for getting all these crowds home. We hopped on a free bus and were back in Coogee in time to post a happy new year to facebook and go to bed!

Still on January 1st, 2016, but after a nice snooze, we met  up with Colette, Colman and Rory for lawn bowls. It was a really hot day and so that combined with everyone having the day off and wanting a traditional new year’s swim, meant the beach at Coogee was packed! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!