2025/04 Melbourne

2025 April

Melbourne

We had booked performance tickets, flights, and accommodation for Melbourne to see Schubert's Die Winterreise, see my 'Concert Review' entry. On the day of our departure from Brisbane, we were amused by the signage at Central Station, which left no doubt but still left us puzzled about where the lifts were.

3 right, 1 left, which one??

Travelling on the air train, you have the luxury of being practically the only person on board. Where are all the people? I often wonder when returning from overseas or, as I was to find out, from Melbourne.

Melbourne does not have trains; buses take you from the airport to the city.

Mövenpick House opposite Central Station

From Central Station, we walked, guided by the RNM's sense of direction as a born-and-bred Melbournian, to our hotel next to the Big Bees, which are part of the Melbourne Skydeck building.

View from our hotel

After checking in, freshening up and changing clothes, we meandered towards the Recital Hall.

I love the differing but harmonising architecture

Individuals moved in all directions, from work to work, from lunch to pre-dinner activities, or to a show. We found an outdoor table. Our telephonic ordering process meant the kind waiter rushed to offer assistance. Ah, the joy of modern living with technical gadgetry.

The moment of our entry into the hallowed space arrived.

We found our seats on the upper level of the magnificently wooden-panelled Hall—and when I say panelled, that includes the ceiling. The centre stage featured a stunning grand piano. Here, it might be a good time to discuss the performers.

Melbourne Recital Hall impressive interior

After the recital, we were charmed by nighttime Melbourne as we searched for coffee.

The next day, we were rewarded with the delights of the Acland Street precinct. YUM! It's just as well we don’t live in Melbourne.

The beach is very close; we got there by tram. I often hear that the weather in Melbourne is dreadful; well, the sun was shining for us. So much so that I absolutely fell in love with this city and wanted to relocate, an impulse halted by the RNM's rationality.