Ten things I loved about Melbourne (No 9 and 10 … finally!)

9. Chocolate shops! There seemed to be one on every corner.

Lindt

Haigh’s

And Ganache

It was here that, on my final morning in Melbourne, I unashamedly spent all my walking “credits”  - on one wickedly indulgent breakfast.

Couldn’t help myself.  

10. Getting locked up in the City Watch House.

What????!!!????

I was “arrested” for violent and threatening behaviour, and made to stand against a wall while my charge was read out to me.

After dutifully answering every question during my interrogation with “Yes, sergeant” or “No, sergeant” as instructed,  I was put into a small cell fitted with wooden benches, along with five other women. We were left to look at each other in bewilderment as our arresting officer turned the key in the door and walked away.

Nervous giggling for thirty seconds. Then she came back, told us we were being punished for making too much noise, and flicked the light off. Total darkness for another twenty seconds, before our sergeant returned and let us out.

Don’t worry, it was all in fun.

This interactive experience is an optional part of a visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol. Great for those with an adventurous spirit, and very informative too. “Sergeant” Finch played her role as arresting officer superbly, with plenty of ad-libbing and a talent for choosing the best stooges to bounce off.

She told us the history of the now-closed Melbourne Watch House where miscreants were held immediately after being charged, but before being tried. This grim space was the men’s exercise area.

Then there was the padded cell (Do you ever have days like this?).

And finally, the mug shot.

It’s OK, I was grinning on the inside.

Di