This was the first time that I experienced a unique combination... I was seated at the right side of the plane, window seat and it was an exceptionally clear morning. So even though we were flying at 40.000 feet the eastern coastline of Australia was clearly visible. I was able to make out the coast from somewhere south of Brisbane, through Newcastle and all the way to Sydney. The Coathanger (Sydney Harbour Bridge) and the Opera House stood out, and show up on the photos I took. Unfortunately they are not clear enough to publish here... not unless someone can enlarge a small section of them to highlight the landmarks.

Next came Canberra where we were clearly able to see Parliament House, the War Memorial and Lake Burley Griffin. It was not until at about that time that we started to descend into Melbourne, still some 400 air kms away. Living not far from the airport, it is great to see all the familiar landmarks on approach.
It makes you a little emotional to get home after such a long time away, doesn't it? I wish I could have enjoyed such a sightseeing tour on approach to LHR but 0430 on a cold London Christmas Eve is sadly no time for sightseeing!