New Year Eve Sydney Style

We are in Sydney Australia and its NYE 2009-2010. Last year at this time being in Sydney at New Year was only a distant dream of “someday”. We are very lucky to be here this year especially to be staying at Kathy’s flat in Milsons Point, which happens to be on the north side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Reference for those unfamiliar with Sydney, the Harbour Bridge is the place the big fireworks display on TV happens.
We rise early as there are many things to do this morning. Jeff and Tim leave to scout the park and decide they must claim “our spot” very soon. They say goodbye and good luck to Jessica, as this is her departure day and head to the park with our shelter, chairs, computer for school, games and the camera. Jessica and I head off at 9am for the airport by train. Once she is set, we say our goodbyes and I head back to the flat to get myself ready for the day.
My job is to pack the cooler with food and drink. Oh, I decide we are in need of a large quantity of popcorn to see us through the day and into the evening. Tim comes back to flat at noon and helps me carry our supply to our spot. “Bravo!” I say, our spot is fabulous. We are set just off the shoreline next to a 4’ wall so we won’t feel crowded. We settle in for the day. Jeff has already met many of our “neighbors”; they are from everywhere, not just Australia. Seems like many people share this dream.
There are fireworks at 9pm for the “kids” and these are nice but not the spectacular that happens at midnight. The crowd is massive. They actually stop letting people down into our area because there is no more space. One thing stands out to me and that is; everybody is happy and smiling.
This is incredible; the excitement is “electric” in the air. Cameras and videos are at the ready, the countdown begins. 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Bang, Bang, Happy New Year!
Whoops and hollers, hugs and kisses. The fireworks show is amazing and it goes on and on for about 15 minutes.
It’s 2010, may each and every one of you and your families have a happy and healthy new year!
Cheers~ Karen