Blogging in Brisbane

Deep in thought, Rock uses some downtime on the 16th floor of the Chiefly on Lennons hotel to contemplate the many witty musings he will write on his blog once he gets back. Four days later the musing continues. While you wait for him to think of something funny to say, enjoy these photos.

First impressions of Brisbane are after the sun sets. And fortunately before the skeeters come out. A balmy tropical evening makes the stroll to the inevitable first destination - Chinatown - a pleasant one. There's something very Singaporeish about the whole river bank. All that's missing is the trademarked Merlion (and the vewy cheap 1 dolla noodle stalls).


Brisbane is a city on the up - rapid growth, a great climate and an awesome city centre perched on the picturesque banks of the rather unimaginatively named Brisbane River. Rather than clammer on the me-too-my-tower-is-taller-than-yours bandwagon, Brisbane decides to go down a different route - by rolling a collection of giant marbles into architecturally strategic locations. Now there's a city with balls.

"Goodbye Herr Jones!" Rock illustrates what happens when you don't have 20 takes, a patient George Lucas, and an entire stunt crew from Industrial Light & Magic to back you up.

Riverdance comes to town! Huh? Come on, that's like a pun, you know 'cause there's a river... and a dance... That's, you know, like funny, right?


Ok fine, it wasn't the best, but Rock's struggling here. One of the coolest areas of the city is the recently redeveloped Southbank, an eclectic collection of cafes, markets, ice cream stalls and even a man-made beach.

Rock wishes he brought a pair of sissors - a few snips and the flower budget for the wedding would be history.

Nobody does cool like the Cold Rock. Forget the scorching sun, forget the oppressive humidity, this man takes cool to a whole new level.

So that's what all those bronzed beach babes are lining up for - the Hot Rock Fantasy! You won't find this on offer at the kiddies paddling pool around the corner baby! Come and get that Hot Rock action you've been craving! And only 6 bucks, now that's a steal if I ever saw one.

Time to get down to the real reason for the trip - Aussie Nationals 2006. The venue: the ludicrously flash private Brisbane Grammar school. Rock strikes a gladatorial pose for the waiting media throngs. Luckily the papparazzi lose interest after he crashes out short of the quarter finals. Final place an unlucky 13th.