The building itself is as much a work of art as its exhibits, constructed from two overlapping wings forming a slightly crooked X and offering constantly shifting views, with glimpses of the Yarra and the parklands through the glass walls in the southern part of the building. The gallery is split between traditional and contemporary indigenous art, historic and modern Australian collections, and special temporary exhibitions.

Occupying three floors, the centre showcases one of the best collections of Australian art in the country. Walk from Flinders Street through the Atrium - a unique passageway of glass, steel and zinc - or from the Plaza through the similarly narrow Crossbar to reach the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, named in honour of Sir Ian Potter -94, a local financier, philanthropist and patron of the arts. Created in to provide Melbourne with a single, central unifying focus, it was initially met with some resistance by Melburnians. A walking tour is a great way to get to know the foodie scene in Melbourne. Lygon St, in inner-city Carlton, is just one of many places across the city with a concentration of Italian restaurants. Sydney may be more style-conscious and Adelaide cheaper, but Melbourne has the best food and the widest choice of cuisines. aboj, sam, ujoqa While there are still several staunch gay-only bars, the trend is increasingly moving to mixed venues that are gay friendly.

International DJs visit frequently, and local talent keeps the scene thriving. The hot spots are Chapel St in South Yarra and the CBD, but clubs take root anywhere they can, from big commercial nights in the suburbs to obscure experimental sessions in inner-city laneways. To get to know the scene, take a Hidden Bars tour or this afternoon tour exploring different bars. Mature heavy gay dating Northcote Australia

Second Chance by Jay Northcote