After landing early (around 04.00) we arrived at Scotch College, our first host school, by 7.00am.
 

Scotch College.

After a quick swim in the pool to freshen up we left the luggage at Scotch and caught a tram into Melbourne City Centre. The first shopping trip !

Purchase of the day ! Chris Craig's Akubra

Everyone explored for few hours after which we  travelled by tram to St Kilda and visited the beach. An impromptu rugby match took place !
 

Melbourne City Centre !

To keep everyone awake, the matches were played one quarter seniors and then one quarter juniors for 8 periods. The senior team competed hard against stiff opposition that boasted some very good players: a 52 second 100 metre freestyler and a Yugoslavian. Goals by Rohan Monico and Sam Whittle were very welcome in a 13-2 defeat.

 

The junior team played very well leading throughout the game. The scorers were Andrew Court (4), James Owen (3), Alex Feary & Dom Thurmott.  Sound teamwork and great tackling kept the hosts to a single goal in the first half and determined play in the front court kept our side of the score board ticking away.  As fatigue crept in Scotch narrowed the gap but we managed to swim out worthy winners 9-6.

Shortly after the boys were introduced to their hosts (billets) for the 2 nights we're in Melbourne. All re-appeared this morning with tales of great hospitality and  a very welcome night's sleep !