13/03/2007
NEWS STORY
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Paul Fauth writes:
Monday was a holiday for most of Melbourne, however, at Albert Park work continued at a frenzy. The containers have been emptied and the pit build almost complete, cars are being assembled, contractors are working at frenetic pace to put the finishing touches to the circuit and amenities.
Albert Park closes to the public on Tuesday and the most wonderful excuses are used by people lacking the appropriate credentials are offered to the security guards at the circuit. The excuse voted best by the guards last year was "Michael Schumacher's hairdresser"!
Unlike most Grand Prix the Australian Grand Prix is surrounded by many events both on and off the circuit.
Several rallies wend their way to Melbourne allowing all those frustrated racing drivers to have some fun in their cars.
Grand Prix balls, anti Grand Prix balls, "celebrity" appearances, numerous photo shoots, the launch of the 2007 Super Aguri on Wednesday are only a few of the lead up events to the Grand Prix.
On and at the circuit Aussie Racing Cars (1200 cc Yamaha powered miniature touring cars) Porsche Carrera Cup, Formula 3, Historic Cars, Speed comparisons between F1 cars and touring cars, army and navy helicopter displays and Aussie Utes all appear on the circuit . The celebrity challenge, where so-called celebrities race each other in identical BMWs, always provides some hysterics.
Above the circuit the FA18 Hornet fighter will make its traditional runs, scaring the punters whilst the RAAF Roulettes acrobatic team keeps the crowds entertained, a QANTAS passenger jet lumbers low over the circuit. Precision marching by army units adds to the spectacle and numerous static and interactive displays ensure there are few dull spots on the day.
This morning Melbourne woke to a beautiful autumn morning and a flying F1 car! A giant hot air balloon in the shape of a F1 car eerily made its way over the city.
So the circuit is almost finished, the support acts are getting themselves in place the tempo is quickening so let the party begin!
To check out our Paul's latest pictures from Melbourne, click here