We decided that we would try to get the best view of the fireworks as it apparently is rather special in Sydney. We have heard that it was popular to go to the area around the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. To get a good spot we had to be there early. We started with Snaps and the lot for lunch at 12.00. At around 3.00 we were in the city and found a great spot in a part of the Royal Botanic Gardens called the Terpian Way. We had a full and clear view of the bridge and the Opera House visible thorugh some trees. We brought snacks, food and fruit and drinks were available from booths in the park. The time flew by as we were building up our alcohol level and eating all the food we brought. We also played some backgammon and cards.

There was a fireworks for families with small children at 9.00 and then the big bang was at midnight. Unfortunately much of the fireworks was launched away from the bridge so our view was a little obstructed be trees. It was still very impressing though - especially the waterfall-effect and all the lights on the bridge. Leading up to midnight and also after midnight we were pouring down champagne like water. After 12 hours of more or less continously drinking we started making our way home. We took a rather big detour though as we first went for a stroll along the harbour from the Opera House, past Cirqular Quay, and around The Rocks. Somehwere in The Rocks we managed to get kicked out of a pub before we even got in. I am still not quite sure what happaned but it might have been a private party. Looking back it was probably good that we did not get in there - most males wore no shirts! I wonder what they were on:)

The last trains and busses left at 3.00am so we said goodbye to Thorsten a little before and catched the last train from Martin Place. I somehow managed to focus on (and remember!) the clock a litle before falling a slepp - 4am.

I do not remember when i last have been partying and drinking for nearly 16 hours!

January 1. was bad! I woke up at 8.30 with the sun shining directly at my head - no good! Hung over like shit i managed to make my way to a couch downstairs with better temperatures. Woke up at 10 - for 15 min. Woke again at 1 for at little longer. Ordered pizza. Slept. Ate more pizza. Slept. 10 min. walk. Slept for the night. Besides a little TV in-between this was all that happened January 1.

Happy New Year!