Sunset at Mindil Beach

Last night after the main part of the congress ended, our party descended on Mindil beach to see the markets, watch the sunset and experience a nice firework display. That marked the end of the season when the markets are held regularly because, from now on, the wet season starts and the visitors to the top end fall away. In the high summer months the temperatures are high and uncomfortable and the humidity is extremely high. In short it's bit like living in a sauna. For example, yesterday evening the temperatures were still 30+ C after the sun went down and many of the participants were just wearing shorts and singlets, me included.

The markets sell art-works, crafts, lots of delicious ethnic foods from all over the world, drinks of various kinds, and there were bands playing and some more exotic pastimes like whip cracking. Our reserved enclosure had freely flowing champagne wines and beers. And the crowds were thick on the ground for the fireworks and to see the sun set. Most of the participants were, however, local

The sun sets over the Arafura sea

The crowds watching on the beach.

Almost gone. As the sun went down the sky reddened.

At dusk the crowds near our enclsoure thckened.

Afterglow.

Crash bang of exploding fireworks lighting the sky.

A lovely evening.

AS