| VISUALS |
VOICE |
| Studio Link |
A pop quiz
for all … |
| Opening Montage
|
They’re
fond colloquial references to the two outstanding symbols that
characterize the gateway to Australia, Sidney - a metropolis
of dramatic natural beauty and remarkable world famous architecture.
A free spirited city of four million inhabitants that |
| |
refer to their
Opera House as the “Nuns Scrum” and the iconic harbour
bridge as the coat hangar. |
| Commentary |
“There’s
always been ... short of spectacular.” |
| City Skyline
|
Although closely
rivalled by Melbourne, Sydney is the business and commercial
capital of Australia. The comparatively small city centre of
this sprawling metropolis seems to be almost jammed into a few
city blocks. Because Sydney grew in such a haphazard |
| |
fashion, with
many of today’s streets following tracks from the harbour
originally made by bullocks, there was no allowance for the
expansion of the city into what has become a major international
centre. The top of the “coat hangar” also happens
to be |
| |
at the top of
the official “to do list” for tourists, so without
further adieu - we headed first for the bridge climb. |
| Commentary |
“The
Sidney Harbour ... abridged version” |
| Ascending Bridge
|
They set off,
clad in a plaid bridge suit, that’s weatherproof and specifically
neutrally coloured so as to minimize eyesore for those still
hankering on the must see list. |
| Commentary |
“Some
statistics for you … biting cold” |
| Flag |
The Australian
flag flutters proudly on the summit of the bridge, one hundred
and thirty four metres above sea level – give or take
a few centimetres, as it rises and falls with the change in
temperatures |
| Commentary |
“Construction
started … beauty mate.” |
| Bridge Climb
Descent of bridge |
Safety on the
climb is paramount, and an absolute priority. All climbers are
tested with a breathalyser before setting foot on a pylon, and
any hint of a swig or a swagger – means you’re grounded.
An inventive umbilical chord and harness keep you in the |
| |
loop at all
times and securely anchored to the rail. Don a comfortable pair
of walking shoes, and you’ll not have a fear in the world.
Despite the economic depression of the time, the opening ceremony
in 1932 was awash with pomp and pageantry. Proceedings |
| |
were enlivened
even more when a Captain of the paramilitary guard prematurely
slashed the ribbon with his sword, thereby stealing the cutting
honour from the premier and going down forever in Australian
folklore. After the pageant the public was allowed ... |
