January 26. Day 26. Soggy celebrations

 Murphy’s Law. Last year the Australia Day Celebrations at South Bank were cancelled a day or two out because it had been bucketing with rain and more was forecast. January 26 arrived with bright sun shine. This year it was also raining in the lead up but they decided the show must go on. Naturally it the heavy downpours persisted.

There was a slight let up around munch time so I decided to do the patriotic thing and walk down. The crowds were thinner than usual but everyone was enjoying the activities – and then Sod’s law. The light showers turned torrential. Everyone got soaked. But the mood remained buoyant (especially in the bar, it has to be said). The kids were making the most of it jumping in the puddles. No-one was going to let a little (well a lot) of rain spoil the fun.

I confess I was transfixed by the kids dressed as cockatoos, echidnas and kangaroos blowing bubbles which were quickly blown away in the winds or stomped on by the eager crowds.

The stall holders at the markets doubtless have had happier Australia Day. Everyone else seemed determined that it wasn’t going to rain on Australia’s parade.