Heart of the city

August 25, 2008

Even though I’ve lived in Brisbane on and off for over 10 years- I never feel like I’ve got to the heart of the city until now. I ran through the city on my way to work for over 3 years, and I like to come in occasionally, but I’ve never really had a good reason to spend sometime really getting to the heart of the place. It’s about more than shopping, although no one can argue the shopping in the city is so much better.

Today was a good example- for the first time in a long time, I went into city hall for a meeting. Despite having good directions, I promptly got lost- and it was wonderful. Who knew we had such a beautiful building (crumbling at it’s foundations) in the heart of the city. Well, everyone knows it’s there- but I don’t think it gets a real appreciation unless you have a reason to go in there.

I had been before, many years ago for a Christmas pantomime that had performers from the ballet school I attended. Those distant faded memories never featured the amazing foyer with it’s checked floor and gorgeous roof.

This morning, was different, as it was in the heart of the building, I wandered long hallways that reminded me of noir film and rode in a elevator that was a steam punk dream.

I was actually meeting with folks from the Museum of Brisbane as part of my job- so I also got to see the Museum space, which is a wonderful thing in itself.

Later that afternoon, I went over to the State Library to do some research for this project- another gorgeous building close to the river. I sat, watched the river, read and researched, and appreciated the afternoon before catching the train home. There are times when I love this city.

When I go back to being a suburban girl in October. I think I’m going to make some time when I can to come in and enjoy the city, more than just a day of shopping, but time to experience and appreciate what else the city has to offer.

Posted in Life