The opening ceremony

Participants started gathering around 4.00pm in the cricket oval next to Aussie stadium, the anticipation was great for what was going to be a memorable occasion.
But after the initial euphoria had died down and as the sun disappeared there was a chilly breeze that made the crowd restless. All anybody wanted was to march into the stadium and for the show to begin. It was not until 8.00pm that United Kingdom were finally called to proceed through to the gates. Once again the excitement grew as we were now finally going to run into the stadium. It was not an anti-climax…. As we were greeted by semi clad men and women swirling cloaks to the sound of a dance beat and a tumbling team who moved round the ground constructing human pyramids. It was truly amazing, a magnificent stadium filled with thousands of spectators and now participants (one advantage of beginning with a U)..We were followed by the USA team which comprised of nearly one third of the total number of participants and then of course the Aussies receiving the loudest cheers and all desperate to enjoy themselves.

The ceremony was impressive and started with a display of indigenous art and culture, and a the story of struggle and the repression of homosexuality that included a great light show. Artists included Jimmy Somerville and k.d Lang
The best bit for me was of course dykes on bikes who roared onto the field and produced an impressive choreographed set around a singing Diva whilst revving at every opportunity, They then produced burn roman candles from the back of their bikes as a finale and roared off with equal gusto.