The trip started on a boring note, a long train ride followed by a very uncomfortable flight, I had never been to Perth and was really excited, so after getting to the house and seeing my cousins, who I hadn't seen in 8 years, things were looking up. The next day was full of sight seeing and driving round Perth, having lunch at kings park, and just relaxing.

I was fairly nervous when I got to the comp because it was my first championship of the year, and I didn't know if I was ready yet, but the Fling felt good and after I got through the Swords I relaxed and started enjoying dancing. The whole day ran perfectly with the results being announced just after lunch. I came 3rd overall with a 4th, a 1st and two 3rds, which was awesome. It was also cool when my 15yr old cousin said that dancing wasn't as feminine as it sounded.

I think one of the best parts about dancing is the people you get to meet and the way you can feel relaxed around people you hardly know just cause they do highland dancing. This is how it was at the BBQ after the comp, some of the dancers I hadn't seen for 3 yrs since the Sydney tattoo in 04 but it felt like I see them every weekend.

Perth had been so much fun that I didnt want to leave and as it turned out I got my wish, for half an hour at least because I missed my flight ( first time ever ) but was lucky to get on the next one to Melbourne.

From Melbourne it was up to Bendigo where the Federation Tattoo was being held. The next day and a bit were a little stressful trying to learn the dances but with a lot of help it all came together. There were 3 shows, one on Friday night and 2 on Saturday, all went by too fast, the nerves before the first show, the laughter and smiles that only come from performing, the photos, the quick costume changes, and the all important after party, made it a great experience for me and one that I will never forget. Easter Sunday I was back in Melbourne, and on Monday I caught a flight home ( the right one this time. ) I arrived home about 10pm crashed in my bed, had to work from 7-3 on the Tuesday and was at dancing at 3.30 that afternoon, and wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

Thanks to everyone who helped me, whether it was giving me a lift, warming me up before the championship, teaching me the dances, making me smile or just telling me to shut up when I was being annoying. I made some amazing friends during the trip and hopefully I'll be able to see them at future competitions and shows.

Cya round,

Kyle