You can never really prepare for a visit to Belmore Park.
I use the term 'visit' loosely, as this grassy knoll's location between Central Station and the (semi-dodgy) Haymarket end of the CBD has its fate set as a thoroughfare rather than a destination unto itself. Still, any post-train ride stroll through is sure to greet you with an eclectic selection of peoples.
First up are the overbearing charity reps (I believe the derogatory term is 'chuggers'?) who lurk behind the eastbound lane bus stop, spreading across the park walkway into a human net guaranteed to catch a few suckers. From there on you'll pass the tai chi group, a dedicated and ever-so calm crew who arrive from 6.30am onwards. At the gazebo, note the homeless guy casually typing away on a brand new lap top. Finally, beware of flying soccer balls when exiting the park onto Hay Street if passing through during the afternoon - there seems to be a rotating group of backpacker football fans, usually European and playing shirtless.
If stopping off at the bench seats during your lunch break, be sure to carry a substantial bag of pebbles with which to ward off the audacious iris birds, ready and waiting to peck you down over that cooked tuna sushi roll. read more