A Melbourne Match (2026)

[bunniefuu]

What makes a city great?

Is it the food?

The weather?

The sights and sounds?

Or maybe it's something

that can't be put into words.

Maybe it just has to be experienced.

My job is to make

your experience in a new city

as perfect and seamless as possible.

To give you busy people out there

one less thing to worry about.

Thanks.

Something to look forward to.

Because time is valuable,

and no one has enough of it.

And this week...

I have just the place for you.

Hmm.

I think I just died and went to heaven.

Petit Chou. Best in New York.

I can't believe you missed.

Morris' speech, by the way.

It was one for the ages.

Deborah was in tears.

He always knows

how to captivate an audience.

- I'd be a nervous wreck.

- Right?

The last time I gave a speech

was at my cousin's bar mitzvah.

I was so nervous that I cried.

Then I started singing,

"Whatta Man" by Salt-N-Pepa.

- You want a bite?

- Yes, I'm starving.

- Ugh!

- Oh!

No, no, no. Don't rub it.

You'll make it worse. You gotta dab. Dab!

I don't have time. I don't have time.

- Georgie.

- Uh.

- Do you have time to talk?

- Yes. Yes, of course.

Um... congratulations

on 30 years, Morris.

- Hmm.

- I'm sorry I missed your party.

That's all right.

New Orleans. How was it?

Great. Yeah,

just finishing up now.

Should be in by 12:00.

Hmm, you know,

you remind me a lot of myself.

Constantly jumping from place to place.

Running on fumes.

And I know running

the 24-hour column isn't easy.

I can handle it.

Oh, don't get me wrong, Georgie.

Obviously you're very capable

and your work speaks for itself.

I mean, 24 hours in Austin

was our most shared story this month.

Look, I just hope

that you take the time to, uh...

Really enjoy these experiences.

The same way we want our readers to.

You don't need to worry about me.

Oh, no, no. I'm not worried.

I just think

it's time I sent you on a, um

different kind of assignment.

I'm trying to slow down now

and retirement's fast approaching.

And I'm not up for those

long-haul flights anymore.

Long-haul?

How would you like to do your first ever

week-long travel feature?

Yes! Yes, of course.

I'm... I'm ready.

- I'm... I'm so ready for this.

- Great, great.

Now, I want you to

really immerse yourself

in the culture, the people.

Look... look beyond

the same old attractions.

Find out what makes the city tick.

What makes it unique.

I will. I'm on it. You...

You won't regret this, Morris.

Oh! Uh, sorry. Uh, where am I going?

Melbourne.

Melbourne, Florida?

You're funny.

- Melbourne, Australia.

- What?

You mean the land of poisonous snakes

and flesh-eating crocodiles?

You've been watching way

too much Discovery Channel.

But, yeah, just call me

Crocodile Georgiee.

- When do you leave?

- Today.

I've got one week until the deadline.

I'll lose two days in travel,

so I've got to go ASAP.

You're travelling for two days?

Technically, 24 hours and 16 minutes.

But I'll lose another 14 hours

with the time difference.

Please tell me

they're flying you business.

I'm just lucky they organized

a chauffeur for me.

I told Morris I'd struggle to drive

on the left side of the road.

You struggle to drive

on the right side of the road.

I'm so hungry, Em.

Do you have any snacks that

aren't chopped up vegetables

- or unsalted nuts?

- I eat whole foods, Georgie.

Maybe you should try it.

You seem to be on a staple diet

of airline pretzels

and whatever's in the closest

vending machine.

This from the girl who used

to eat chocolate eclairs

for breakfast every single morning.

They were from Petit Chou!

And for your information,

I also eat whole foods.

I got a slice of mushroom pizza

on the way to the airport yesterday.

Mushrooms!

You're going to run yourself

into the ground

and potentially contract scurvy.

Why don't you go home

before your flight?

Pack, eat, take a nap.

Way more efficient

to come straight here.

I'd waste 35 minutes

getting from the office

to my apartment, then another

hour getting to the airport.

Complete waste of time, not to

mention I'd be backtracking.

You're only 20 minutes from the airport,

- it took me 25 minutes to get...

- Oh, okay, okay, fine.

I'm exhausted just listening to you.

What do you call this look?

"Teams" chic?

Nobody can see what clothes

I'm wearing under my desk.

- Oh, speaking of clothes.

- Oh no, you better not!

I thought the days of my sister

raiding my closet were over.

It's the middle of summer there,

I need something colorful,

fresh, floaty, fun. Ooh

this is giving Jennifer Grey

in The Catskills.

Well, just take it.

If it isn't made of feather down,

then I won't be needing it.

Are you seriously only taking

your tiny carry-on?

Pro tip, never check luggage.

Such a time waster.

Plenty of room in here

for everything I need.

Any room for me?

I wish there was, but something tells me

you'd be too scared of all the spiders.

Speak for yourself!

You screamed when you saw

my neighbor's kid

dressed as Spider-Man for Halloween.

He was very convincing.

- Passports?

- Check.

- Sunglasses?

- Check.

Bikini?

What? You might meet

a cute Aussie surfer.

This isn't a vacation, Em, it's work,

and it's a big opportunity for me.

I don't have time for

- distractions.

- Georgie, it's Australia,

the home of the Hemsworth brothers.

I'm guessing there's going to

be many distractions.

Please, just promise me

you'll take care of yourself.

Don't make me worry about you.

I'll be fine.

Don't worry, I'll be fine.

I'm going to Australia!

Eric, there's

still no sign of my driver.

Where are they?

I called Luxury Cars, they said

someone would be there shortly.

Shortly? What kind of time frame is that?

Uh, if nobody arrives

in ten minutes,

I'll book you another service, don't worry.

I'll find you a ride,

even if I have to hire a

kangaroo to hop you over there.

Eric, you're the best, you know that?

Of course, I know that.

Call me anytime, Georgie.

Okay.

You right?

Sorry, must have given you

quite a scare there.

You almost ran me over.

Yeah, well, I mean, not exactly.

Excuse me?

Oh, it's just,

you were standing on the road

and you were looking

in the wrong direction.

No, I wasn't.

That...

Well, I shouldn't have to fear for my life

while waiting for my driver, okay?

I'm just running late to pick

someone up, I'm sorry again.

Yeah, just watch

where you're going next time.

A little tag on your hat there.

Oh, no.

- Georgie Lewis?

- Yeah?

Zach.

I'll be your driver today.

- No.

- No?

- No, you can't be my driver.

- Well, unfortunately.

I am.

But, uh, my assistant

booked with Luxury Cars.

Yep, that's me. I'm sorry I'm late.

I hear you're a journalist.

Travel journalist.

Ah, well, you'll love Melbourne.

Culture capital of Australia.

And the traffic's not too bad,

so it'll probably take us half an hour

- to get to the city.

- Wait, wait, wait.

This has to be a mistake.

Yeah, look, um

full disclosure.

Luxury Cars is actually

my dad's company.

He threw his back out this morning,

so I had to rush here to fill in.

Oh, um, is he okay?

Yeah

he'll be right by tomorrow.

I, uh, I was installing drywall

on the other side of town

when he called, so again,

I'm sorry you had to wait.

I wish I'd known that before

I went full New Yorker on you.

New York?

I thought I heard an accent.

I'm not the one with the accent.

You driving, then?

It's just we do things

a little differently down here.

Do you want to

switch?

So.

- Where to first?

- Uh, just my hotel, please.

I think I'll get to bed early.

- Bed? It's 7:30 am.

- What?

Haven't you noticed the broad daylight?

No, I...

I'm just all confused.

I think I need a coffee.

Ah, well, you came to the right city.

Oh, I marked all the best

cafe locations in my schedule.

- Did your dad send it to you?

- Yeah, he did.

I haven't had a chance to look

at it yet, but don't you worry.

I'll get you sorted.

You gonna share those?

Hey, it's 8:04 now.

I'll quickly grab a coffee,

then we can check off the

National Gallery before noon.

Uh, this... this doesn't look right.

- Where are we?

- St. Kilda.

One of my favourite places

to get caffeinated.

Uh, but, um

it's... it's not on my list.

I know.

Just try it. I'll find a park.

Fine. Um

can you just wait here, though?

I'll be quick.

Well, this is a no-stopping zone,

so I'll get done with the ticket,

but I'll come find you.

- Um, but...

- Have fun.

Okay.

Hi, what can I get for you?

Coffee, please.

- What kind?

- Just coffee.

Uh, flat white, latte, cappuccino...

- Black coffee?

- Long? Short?

Regular?

How about I give you

a couple to try, yeah?

Okay.

Mmm.

So, what do you...

what do you think?

Best coffee I've ever tasted.

I tried the long black,

short black, flat white,

latte, piccolo, ristretto.

Oh, yeah? Can't tell.

You, uh

you forgot this.

- Left it in the car.

- Thanks.

I, uh, I usually save photos

for the attractions.

Perfect.

Turns out this is one.

Well, I guess I should try

a cappuccino while I'm here.

How about we, um, how about we,

uh, we walk off those jitters?

If you're into art, I know

a great place we can check out.

The National Gallery?

There's a French Renaissance

exhibit that opens today.

Renaissance? No, no, no.

We're in Melbourne now.

We should see some local art, yeah?

Okay.

- Pretty cool, huh?

- Incredible.

- Bold. Gritty. Poetic...

- Sorry?

Oh, um, I tend to spitball

some adjectives

that come to mind

whenever I'm in a new city.

Helps me later

when I'm writing the article.

Oh, right.

Raw, provocative, honest.

- Oh, there you go.

- Yeah.

It's like an efficient way

to capture the moment.

Saves so much time later.

I can't believe this wasn't on my list.

Yeah, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to

drag you off course or anything.

But don't worry, Dad'll have

you back on track tomorrow.

You're not driving me tomorrow?

No, no, I'm just... I'm

filling in for the day.

Oh.

But don't worry, you know,

he drives a nice car.

You know, he wears a suit,

unlike this dusty old mop.

Uh, no, it's not that. It's, um

well, this is just so interesting.

It's... it's not your typical

guidebook destination.

It's... it's local.

It's

unique.

Hey, how would you feel about

staying on as my driver?

- Oh, I'm not a driver.

- No, no, not a driver.

Um, a local guide.

I'm... I'm just a tradesman.

I build houses, you know.

Maybe you want someone a bit more

- professional.

- No, I want you.

I mean... I... I want, um, you

to show me the real Melbourne.

A side of the city that only

a local would know about.

Listen, this article is a huge deal for me.

My boss is retiring soon

and he's trusting me with a story.

I need to prove that I can look

beyond the same old attractions.

I know you can help me.

Please.

You don't mind being driven

around in a dusty old work car?

Absolutely not.

And you're not going to make me

follow a schedule?

Nope.

Okay, all right. You've

got yourself a seat.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

- Oh, whoa.

- Whoa. You all right?

Yeah, it's just this, um,

jet lag is not messing around.

All right, do you want

to take a seat for a sec?

Yeah.

Ooh.

- Well, I'll go get the car.

- Thanks, Zach.

Hey, Georgie.

Welcome to Melbourne.

I had the most amazing coffee

I've ever tasted.

The city has

all these incredible lane-ways

with street art and cafes.

It feels like the best parts of New York

mixed with San Francisco

with a touch of Vancouver

and a sprinkle of Europe.

Oh, I need to write that down.

Georgie, do you have

any idea what time it is?

Uh, 5:00 pm?

I'm amazed I'm still awake, to be honest,

but I know as soon as I sit down...

- It's 1:00 am!

- Oops.

I... I'm glad you're having a great time,

but I really need to get back to sleep.

- Why'd you leave your phone on?

- In case of emergencies,

which clearly this isn't.

Can you just stop worrying about me?

Have you eaten anything today?

Uh, I ate a whole pack of these

Tim Tam cookie things.

Georgie, this is why

I worry about you.

Please, just go somewhere tomorrow

and have a healthy lunch.

Okay, I'm sure Zach

will know of a good place.

Who's Zach?

Oh, he's my local guide.

He took me to

the most amazing places today.

Gave me a lot of good inspo

for the article.

Who are you, and what

have you done with my sister?

What?

Since when have you needed

a local guide when you travel?

Or met anyone new, for that matter?

Who is this Zach? I need details.

Georgie?

Georgie! Are you there,

can you hear me?

Morning, sunshine.

Cracking day today?

Yeah, it's, uh

cracking.

- You washed your car?

- Yeah, I did.

She needed a good spruce up, so did I.

I had to at least try and look the part.

You look very, um...

Clean.

Thank you.

How's your dad doing?

Oh, he's a tough nut. He's, uh,

already back on his feet.

Good.

Ready for some brekkie?

Oh, no, I'm good.

I grabbed this for the road.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no. Hey, come on.

That's not breakfast.

You hired me to show you

all the great things that

Melbourne has to offer, right?

Well, that includes, good food.

You okay?

It's, um

it's taking a while.

- We only just sat down.

- It's been ten minutes already.

But they do have to cook the food here.

The actually do...

- Oh, thank goodness.

- Oh, thank you.

What?

Nothing.

Hey.

Try this.

It's, uh, a famous Australian spread.

- Tell me what you think.

- Is it chocolate?

Umm, kinda.

Oh!

Oh!

What is that?

It's Vegemite.

It's an acquired taste,

but all us Aussies grew up on this stuff.

That is the weirdest thing I've ever eaten.

Oh, come on. You guys combine

peanut butter and jam. That's weird.

That, my friend

is the best combination

known to man.

What are you doing?

Capturing the moment.

I'm not supposed to publish

photos of myself, you know.

Really?

That's a shame.

- Patto!

- Oh, no.

- It is you!

- Hi.

- Unbelievable.

- Hi. Can I get a photo?

Uh, yeah, sure.

Yeah, yeah.

Yeah.

Okay.

- Legend. Thanks, mate.

- No worries.

Uh... What was that?

Are you some kind of celebrity?

- I don't know what that was.

- She seemed to know you.

I think she confused me

with somebody else.

- But she came right over...

- So, Georgie girl.

- Should we get going?

- Oh, yes.

- Come on.

- Right.

Have a look at this.

So, if we start with the Eureka Sky Deck,

then we'll be within walking

distance to Collins Street

- and Block Arcade.

- Hey, I thought we agreed.

No schedule.

Oh, right.

Is there, like, a rough plan, though?

Oh, yeah. I thought we'd meander

down South Bank, you know.

Grab a coffee, and, you know,

then I can take you to one of my fav...

- Why do you always do that?

- Do what?

- Always looking at your watch.

- No, I'm not.

Yeah, you are.

- You're always in a rush.

- What?

No, I'm not. I'm just...

I'm just efficient. That's all.

There's a lot to cover, not a

lot of time, so I'm just

- trying to make sure I get...

- Hey.

Trust me.

Oh, Melbourne.

Vibrant, thriving, beautiful Melbourne.

If you've ever wondered what

it's like to step back in time

and into the future

this is the place for you.

There's no shortage of thrills.

Frills.

And relaxing hideaways to recharge.

- Oh!

- Oh, my gosh.

Don't even get me

started on the food,

because once you try it

it will leave you wanting more,

and more,

and more.

Who knew one city could have it all?

That was fun.

I can't remember the last time

I rode a bike.

Hey, what do you call this flavor again?

Hokey Pokey.

It's a

vanilla honeycomb.

It's actually a Kiwi delicacy,

but we claim it as our own.

What's a Kiwi?

A nickname for a New Zealander.

Right.

You know, I always thought.

New Zealand was part of Australia.

It's not.

Yeah, but you guys seem really similar.

Completely different country.

- It's so close.

- It's 2,000 miles away.

You sound the same.

- We sound nothing alike.

- Yeah, you do.

Oi, mate, you beauty.

I don't know what that is.

It doesn't sound like

New Zealand or Kiwi.

I thought it was spot on, mate.

You sound like a cartoon version

of Crocodile Dundee.

That's exactly what I was going for.

Uh-huh.

Oh, hey, can you hold this for a sec?

Are those people...

Are they taking photos of us?

Oh, probably just tourists.

Hey, come on, let's get the bikes back.

Huh?

So how do I rate as your guide

so far, Georgie girl?

You're doing exceedingly well.

I can't believe how much

we've checked off already.

And, first impressions of the city?

- Lively, engaging.

- Yeah.

Not what I expected.

What did you expect?

I don't know.

Rugged bushlands,

snakes, scary spiders,

- surfers, Outback Steakhouse.

- Ah.

I'm sorry to disappoint.

Outback Steakhouse is actually

an American company.

We don't have that.

But everything else is not too

far out in Melbourne.

I actually, um...

I'm from a small town

down by the coast, so...

I grew up fending off my fair

share of snakes and spiders.

Sounds terrifying.

It's actually pretty spectacular.

If you have time in your schedule,

you should... you should check it out.

- Oh, you little ripper.

- What?

The day's not over yet, Georgie Girl.

I've still got one more

surprise up my sleeve.

What is it?

Come on.

Come on.

- Here's trouble.

- Go on.

- Here's trouble.

- Go on.

- Dazza! Good to see ya mate.

- Oh, Patto!

- Long time, buddy.

- Thank you for doing this.

- I know it's last minute.

- Nah, I'm happy to help, mate.

Daz, this is Georgie.

Georgie, this is Darren, aka Dazza.

- Nice to meet you.

- American.

- Mm-hmm.

- Oh, lovely accent.

Why does everyone think

I'm the one with the accent?

Dazza and I go way back.

We went to high school together.

- Yeah, we did mate.

- Yeah.

So, Georgie Girl.

Do you want to know what

we're doing here today?

Uh, yeah.

What's cute but has claws?

My sister?

Think marsupials.

Georgie, this is Nuji.

He's one of the rescues here

at the sanctuary.

Go on. Get up close.

Okay.

I can't believe it.

Hi, Nuji.

Hello, mate.

He's an orphan.

- Mum got hit by a car.

- Oh, no. Poor little thing.

He has a good life, though.

Here at the sanctuary.

We don't usually let

people in to see koalas

after hours, but

since you're Patto's special guest,

we had to make an exception.

Yes, thank you. This is

this is the most Australian thing ever.

I thought you might like it.

He seems quite taken with you, Georgie.

Do you think

a koala could live in

a New York City studio apartment?

I think their natural habitat

is slightly different to yours.

- I'm gonna look into it.

- Okay.

Hey, why does everyone

keep calling you Patto?

Because Patterson is my last name.

It's an Aussie thing. We give...

we give nicknames to everyone.

- That's annoying.

- Why?

Because it's so confusing.

Patto, Dazza, I'll never know

what people's actual names are.

You don't need to know,

it's just what we do.

It's, uh, it's, uh, it's endearing.

Is that why you call me

Georgie Girl all the time?

Yeah.

And you... you remind me

of that girl from a song.

What song?

Hey there, Georgie Girl

Dreaming of someone you could be

Life is a reality

You can't always run away

I don't know it.

Oh, come on. I can't be the only one

that's ever sung

that song to you. The Seekers!

Melbourne band from the '60s.

The girl in the song

doesn't sound anything like me anyway.

If you say so.

So, I was thinking

we can grab some dinner

on the way back towards the city.

- I know a great spot.

- Sure.

Um, what's the name of the restaurant?

- I can look it up.

- It's a surprise.

Do we need to make a reservation?

No, there's always room

where we're going.

Well, how fancy is it?

Should I change back at the hotel?

Nah, you're perfect as you are.

I do need to grab something on the way.

Are you okay if we make

a quick pit stop?

Uh, well, I need to make sure

I have time to do something there.

- It'll be very quick.

- Can we just, um...

It really is very important.

What is it?

You'll see.

- Best restaurant in town.

- Pretty good company too.

I can't believe you were hiding

Snoopy from me all this time.

We've only known each other 48 hours.

Right.

Feels like longer for some reason.

Hey, Snoopy!

- He must have seen a seagull.

- Oh, I'll grab him.

What's so special over here, buddy?

What the...

Snoop!

Should have probably

put him on a leash.

Hey.

Hey.

- Yeah.

- You okay?

So, I guess you know.

Know what?

The poster. I know you...

I know you saw it.

- Oh, that?

- Yeah.

I... I didn't think

too much of it, really.

It's just, yeah, who are you?

I played football.

Australian rules football.

Is that like NFL?

No, it's uniquely Australian.

It's kind of like a mix

between rugby and soccer.

I guess that explains

all the celebrity sightings.

Yeah. I'm sorry, I probably

should have mentioned

something before now.

It's just sometimes it's easier

not to talk about it.

Why?

Uh, it was just such a big

big part of my life, you know. I...

I played all through high school.

I was drafted when I was 18.

You know, it was everything. It was

my entire identity.

So when I ruptured

my achilles a few years back

it's just easier not to talk about it.

I understand.

This might sound a bit silly.

Every morning,

crack of dawn on Monday

before training, I'd ride up

the side of this hill,

and I had the most

amazing view of the city.

It was my favourite time of day

because it was quiet and

still and...

Anyway, I'd, uh...

I'd watch the sunrise,

and then I'd take a breath,

and I'd scream right

at the top of my lungs.

"Come at me, world"! You know?

"You better be ready"! You know?

"Patto's coming for you"!

I don't know, it sort of

pumped me up from the start

of every week, you know.

And after I did that, I felt like I could

like I could do anything.

I've never told anyone that before.

Your secret's safe with me.

Hey, Patto!

You're my hero!

- Do you ever get used to that?

- No.

No, but, uh

my old man Roddo

taught me never to complain.

It's just a part of the job.

- Roddo?

- As in Rodney, my dad.

He used to come to

every single one of my games.

He lives down the coast now.

He only comes back for

the odd driving job every now and then.

That's a shame.

Yeah.

Hey, Snoop! No, hey, hey, hey, Cheeky!

What are you doing, eh?

What are you doing?

So, any sightseeing requests

for tomorrow, Georgie Girl?

- Well, I do have one.

- Yeah, go on.

Why don't we take that trip

down the coast you suggested?

Where you grew up.

What, really?

Yeah, well, I've been

thinking about it and, um

it does sound pretty spectacular.

Minus the snakes

and scary spiders, of course.

And, um, it's where you're from.

So you're the perfect guide.

You sure it won't take too

much time out of your schedule?

I'm not allowed a schedule, remember?

That's right. No, she's not.

And no, you're not.

No, you're not.

Hey. Hey. I'm not the one

writing the story.

No, I just had to capture the moment.

He's taking you on a road trip?

I don't know what I was thinking.

He told me this whole story about his dad

and how he used to play football

and I don't know what came over me.

I don't have time to go down the coast.

Georgie, breathe.

It might be great to get out of the city.

Just go with the flow.

You obviously came up

with this idea for a reason.

Oh. I see the reason.

Emma, this is my guide, Zach.

Zach, this is my sister, Emma.

Oh, right. G'day.

How's it going, Emma?

Hi, Zach.

Hope you're taking care of my sister.

Oh, don't you worry.

She's in good hands.

I can see that.

Okay, we gotta go.

Zach, please make sure she eats

a healthy meal once in a while

- and gets enough sleep.

- Yep.

She's basically like a fully grown baby.

Okay, bye, Em.

She seems to really care about you.

Thank you.

Yeah, she worries about me.

What does she worry about?

Ugh, you know,

that I'll get sick,

burn out, blah, blah, blah.

You, uh

you worry about those things?

Um, I never really

think about it, to be honest.

Most of my brain power

is tied up in work.

I'm not gonna lie, your job

sounds kind of stressful.

Can be.

Lots of late nights, transfers,

deadlines, flights.

So what do you do it all for?

Uh, what do you mean?

Well, why do you put yourself

through all the stress?

Um...

Well, uh.

I'm sorry, I don't mean to overstep.

No, no, no, it's fine.

It's, um, it's just, um...

I don't know.

Well...

There's plenty of time to think about it.

We should be at Apollo Bay

by about midday.

Did you bring your togs?

- My what?

- Your... your swimmers, your

your cossie, your

what do you call it? Your, um,

your... your bathing suit.

Oh, no, no.

I didn't think I'd be needing it.

Oh, you'll be needing it.

It's gonna be a scorcher.

Weren't we just at the beach last night?

No, that was a bay.

Go on, go get your swimmers.

- I'll meet you back here.

- I don't know if I really...

Georgie, do you trust me?

Okay.

What are you wearing?

- Just being sensible.

- Okay.

- Come over here.

- I'm good back here.

You scared?

No.

A little.

Of what?

Sharks, mainly.

And, um, stingrays

and jellyfish and riptides

that could sweep me out to sea.

Hey. Well, don't worry.

I'll protect you.

Can't let you come

all the way to Australia

- and not having a swim.

- Put down!

No, no, no, no, no, no.

I thought you New Yorkers

were supposed to be tough, eh?

A bit of water won't hurt you.

New Yorkers aren't typically

the strongest swimmers.

Ah.

You were saved by the storm clouds.

Storm clouds?

It can't be possible,

it's like a 100 degrees.

Haven't you ever heard that

saying about Melbourne before?

- What saying?

- Four seasons in one day.

Tell me you've got

your swimsuit under that.

- Yeah.

- Okay.

Shark! Shark!

- Huh?

- Shark! Shark!

Oh.

What the...

Georgie, I just got

to call to tell you that...

TV...

fabulous.

Everything okay?

Ugh, my assistant

left a voicemail,

but I can't get a signal.

Oh, yeah, reception's

a little bit dodgy around here.

But don't worry, it'll be fine

once we get back to the city.

You're right.

He was probably just calling

to tell me about his weekend.

Where were you?

I had to run back and get some

petrol for the trip back.

I got you a little prezzie

while I was there.

- Prezzie?

- Yeah, a present.

For braving the ocean today.

It's just a little reminder

not to take time too seriously.

Okay, Patto, very funny.

Patto? I see she's calling him Patto now.

Hey, look, it's a beautiful day.

Why don't we go sit down

and have a proper meal? Okay?

You'll love it, trust me.

It's an Aussie classic.

Pies aren't supposed to have meat.

Don't knock it till you try it.

Here, this is a must.

A must.

Everyone eats these at the footy.

Speaking of footy.

Excuse me, are you Zach Patterson?

As a matter of fact, young man, I am.

- Oh my God.

- It is, No way.

I knew it!! You're my

favourite player of all time!

Thanks, mate. What's your name?

- Ace, this is Noah.

- G'day, Ace. G'day, Noah.

Hi. Do you want to have a kick, Patto?

Oh, I'd love to, boys, but we're

on a bit of a... a tight schedule.

Oh!

- We have time.

- Yes.

- Yeah?

- Go show him how it's done.

Okay.

Oh my God.

Okay, first thing you've got to remember,

before any game,

is never let your guard down.

Go get it.

Hey! All right, that's it.

Ah!

Hey, good game.

Sorry about that.

No, no problem.

It... it was great seeing you in action.

I'm a little rusty.

Not quite the player I used to be.

Well, those boys didn't seem to think so.

They're easy to please.

You know, you don't have to be

the greatest player

in the league to make an impact

on somebody's life.

Those boys will probably

remember this day forever.

Hmm.

About time I got you back to the city.

Sure. Um, but, just, um

is there anywhere

around here to freshen up?

I have sand in

all kinds of places.

I know the feeling, and...

- I know the spot.

- Okay, great.

- Hey!

- Hey!

- How's it going?

- Good to have you back, mate.

I'm so sorry it's super late notice.

No, not at all. You're always welcome.

Thank you. Um, Georgie,

these are my good mates,

Scott and Maeve.

We've known each other

since we were tiny little kids.

Guys, this is Georgie.

She's a travel journalist from New York,

and I have been her

local guide for the week.

- Nice to meet you both.

- You too, Georgie.

- Oh, please, come on in.

- Yeah, come on.

So, how much longer to go now, Maeve?

Oh, only seven weeks. I can't wait.

Yes, but I haven't finished the cot yet,

so maybe we can wait a bit longer.

Hey, good timing.

I just put the Barbie on.

Oh, it smells fantastic.

I wish we could stay, Maeve,

but we've gotta get back to the city.

Yeah, sorry, that's my fault.

I have a ton of work to catch up on.

How long are you in town for, Georgie?

Just till Tuesday.

So, how are you liking Melbourne so far?

Oh, it's incredible.

I mean, I travel all the time for work,

but something about this place just feels

different.

Well, you'll have to

come back then.

It's a shame you guys

are going to miss my concert.

Concert? Are you a musician?

- Kind of.

- Oh, kind of.

Maeve's an incredible,

amazing folk singer.

She's a local legend,

and she's been belting out tunes

since we were just little kids.

Back when Zachy here

- was lead guitarist in my band.

- Yes.

- You play guitar?

- Kind of, kind of.

I asked if he wanted

to jam with me tonight,

but he said he had

some very important plans

with someone in the city.

Well, now you're here, you should stay.

Your dad's coming tonight.

I'm sure he'd love to see you.

I would, mate, I would, but no,

I've got to get Georgie back.

Well, I'll give him a big squeeze for you.

I'm sure he'll be the first one

on the dance floor.

Hey, um, why don't we... why

don't we stay for a few songs?

Drive back later tonight.

What? I wouldn't suggest

driving after dusk.

There's too many roo's about.

Uh, he means kangaroos.

They have a habit of jumping out

into the middle of the road.

Why don't you stay here?

We've got enough room.

Thank you, guys, thank you.

- But we really should...

- That sounds great, thank you

- so much.

- What? I thought...

We can just go back first thing.

You have someone

to take care of Snoopy, right?

- I mean, yeah...

- Then perfect!

Okay, I guess...

I guess we're staying.

- Oh!

- Well.

Here's to staying put.

Hey, hey!

How many people are coming?

Ah, well, knowing Maeve,

she's probably invited the whole town.

Yeah.

She always did thrive on

the big audience.

Yep.

Even being seven months pregnant

doesn't hold her back.

I can't believe you're going to be a dad.

How's it feel?

Uh,

terrified.

Mate, you'll be fine.

I just keep thinking,

what if I stuff this up?

You know, like, what if I don't

know how to change a nappy

or calm them down

when they're crying or swaddle?

What even is a swaddle?

I've got no idea.

What if I'm not smart enough

to help them

- with their homework...

- Mate.

Or make enough money

- to send them to a good school?

- Hey, hey, listen to me,

listen to me, listen to me.

You know none of that matters.

Yeah?

You and Maeve are going to

love that baby.

And everything else will sort itself out.

And if you ever need, you know,

Uncle Zach to come over

and help with the algebra homework,

you know, I'll be there quicker

than you can say.

Y equals MC-squared minus 9.

I'm pretty sure you failed

maths with me, big fella.

Yeah, that's...

that's because I was

chasing football and dreams.

Yeah, I was too busy chasing Maeve.

Yeah.

- So tell me.

- Yeah?

When did you all of a sudden

become a local Melbourne guide?

That's a good question.

I was only meant to fill in for the day,

you know, give Dad some rest,

but somehow...

Georgie convinced me.

Yeah, I can see that.

No, it's not... it's not like that.

- Well, why not?

- Well, for one

she lives on the other side of the world.

You have a passport.

Dating a foreign woman didn't

turn out well for me last time.

Yeah, well, she wasn't the right one.

Yeah, but I convinced myself

she was. And then

she up and leaves me

as soon as I'm done with footy.

You need to find someone

who wants you for you.

Not someone who's into

designer clothes or red carpets.

I don't know,

I'm just, I'm a bit more

cautious these days.

I've got to

take my time with things.

You want my advice?

Yeah.

Don't wait.

There's plenty of things

in this life that take time.

Trust me, I know.

Sometimes, things just appear

right in front of you.

And if you wait

before you know it, they're gone.

Wow!

You look gorgeous!

Thanks so much for letting me borrow it.

Oh, please, I'm just happy

to see it out of my wardrobe.

I haven't been able

to fit into it for months.

- Do you know what you're having?

- A girl.

She's an absolute miracle.

You know, it's been a long journey

to get where we are now.

Not how we planned it.

I'm so sorry.

I always wanted to be a mum.

I saw myself with a whole tribe of kids.

We'd all go on tour together and,

and they'd all play

a different musical instrument

in the family band.

It sounds silly now, but

that was my fantasy.

We're all made to believe

that starting a family is easy.

It's just what people

do, it's natural. But,

for some of us, it's

it's not.

I'm just so grateful for Scott.

We've weathered

the highs and the lows and

the heartbreaks together.

He's my rock.

I can tell you're going to be

amazing parents.

Thank you.

I can't believe,

after waiting all these years

that

we're going to have

a crying baby in this house

in just seven weeks.

It was all worth it.

Sounds like you and Zach had

a fun week exploring Melbourne.

Oh, so fun. He's the perfect guide.

He's great, isn't he?

You two look

really cute together.

What? Oh, no, we're not together.

Oh, maybe I misread things.

I thought I felt a vibe between you two.

Sorry.

So, um, do you have

a special someone waiting

for you back in New York then?

Me? No.

Maybe a couple hundred emails

and a deadline or two.

I'm pretty much married to my job.

What? You never met

anyone on your travels?

I... I run the 24-hour column,

so my life is kind of hectic.

I barely have time to

eat and sleep, let alone date.

Well, you seem pretty relaxed right now.

I, um...

Now that you mention it,

I... I haven't checked

my phone all afternoon.

Maybe us laid-back Aussies

are rubbing off on you?

Maybe.

All right.

All right, so

- this way?

- Yeah, yeah, move it in a bit.

Here?

Now move it out.

- What, over here?

- Yeah, yeah, now move it in.

- That's what you just said.

- And shake it all about.

Do the hokey pokey, turn around.

Hilarious. You've already

mastered the dad joke.

Well, that's what it's all about.

Yeah.

Hey, I ran into old Mr Thomas

at the market yesterday.

Oh, yeah, the math magician?

Yes, the legend himself.

Still teaching, still sporting

the signature bow tie.

He said the PE teacher

at Oceanside High

is leaving in a couple of months.

The school's looking for a new coach

for the Ocean Sharks footy team.

And?

I wanted to know if you'd be interested.

Me?

Don't you think it's time you

got back to doing what you love?

Come on, come and check out

all your hard work.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

Oh, not bad, eh?

Not bad at all.

Great job, you two.

He's a man of many talents, Georgie.

I'll be getting him around here next

to build a swing set and a tree house.

I'm going to go check on Maeve.

Yeah. See if she needs

any vocal warming exercises.

- You look...

- Clean?

I was going to say elegant

radiant, beautiful.

I don't have my notepad on me.

I'll have to remember those.

Oh I'll remember.

Oh, wow, look at the sunset.

- Hey, come with me.

- Where are we going?

I'll show you in a sec. Come on,

we don't have much time.

Who's keeping track

of time now, huh?

Are we on a stakeout or something?

Shh, shh, shh.

I told you about the long grass.

What if there's snakes?

Georgie.

Where did they all come from?

Oh, it's magic hour.

It's when they all come out to say hello.

This is the most beautiful thing

I've ever seen.

You've changed, Georgie Girl.

What? How?

I don't know.

You just seem more

present.

Wow.

It's really rare to see a joey

out here by itself.

Usually one of the big males is out here

keeping an eye on their mob.

And trust me, you don't want to

cross a buck in the wild.

No, no, no, no! Oh no Georgie,

Georgie, no!

Is it still there?

I don't know.

Good that sounds like sound check.

I'd better tune up the guitar.

It's all clear.

Sorry.

- Hey, Zach?

- Yeah?

Would that kangaroo have

tried to

hurt me?

Not if I had anything to do with it.

Good evening, everyone.

G'day.

We're so glad you could

all join us this evening

for this very special performance

by my undeniably talented

incredibly resilient, fiercely determined

and unshakeable force of nature,

that is my wife, Maeve Miller.

Thank you for coming, everyone.

Tonight I'll be singing

some songs from my album,

which is dedicated

to the love of my life, Scott.

Without you

music wouldn't sound as good.

A one, two, three, four.

I remember the night

Just cried and cried

Not gonna run Not going to hide

There's a fire inside me

Burning bright

Don't write me off I'm up for the fight

Been down so long

I'm not sure where I belong

No magic wand No wishing well

Cos only time will tell

Time, only time

Only time will tell where

I belong

Time, only time

Oh, in time

I'll find where I belong

Ooh

That's the Southern Cross over there

beautiful isn't it?

Like on the Australian flag, right?

Right.

First nation people say it looks like

the footprint of a giant eagle

they use the tail star to tell the time.

Oh I'm sorry,

I could babble on about

astronomy all night, I'm Rodney.

Rodney?

- As in Roddo, Zach's dad?

- Right.

You must be Georgie.

How'd you know?

Well... not too

many Americans at this party,

so your accent kind of stood out

like a sore thumb.

How are you? How's your back doing?

Oh look, I'm just fine, thanks very much.

Thank you for asking.

Look, I'm sorry that I couldn't

drive you around all week,

but I'm glad that my son could take over.

Oh, he's been a wonderful

guide

truly, it... it's been

an unforgettable trip.

I'm glad to hear it.

You know...

just between you and me...

I was hoping to be able to

meet you while you were in town.

Why's that?

My boy may seem like

a solid guy, a real tough nut,

but he's a sensitive soul.

This last year has been

pretty hard on him

both professionally and personally

much more than he lets on.

I know my son, he'd do

anything to make sure

that the people around him are okay,

even if he himself isn't.

So when he called me that day

that he picked you up

from the airport...

I heard the old Zach

someone who was excited,

motivated, happy.

I just had to meet the woman

who was behind it.

You think I'm the reason?

Oh

It's clear as the stars

in the night sky, Georgie.

Well, shall we?

Yeah.

All right.

Well, I'll leave you kids be.

- Nice meeting you, Georgie.

- You too, Roddo.

Come with me.

This next song is dedicated

to a very special woman.

She's travelled all the way from the US

and we're very lucky to have her

with us here tonight.

Georgie, this one's for you.

One, two, three, four.

Hey there, Georgy girl

She's so talented.

I'm already such a big fan of hers.

- She's a fan of yours too.

- Mine?

Yeah.

She said she really likes you.

Said you guys had a connection.

- She really said that?

- Yeah.

Just pass you by

Could it be you just don't try

Or is it the clothes you wear?

And now I'm going to

hand you over to the band.

Hey Zach?

Yeah?

Do you remember when you asked me

why I put myself

through so much stress?

Yeah, I remember.

The truth is I know why.

I was just...

I don't know, too embarrassed to admit it.

You can tell me.

It's

fear.

Fear of what?

Fear of being left behind.

I spent a long time not knowing

what I wanted to do with my life.

I hopped around from career to career.

I studied law. I was a personal trainer.

I even tried out acting for my career.

I was completely lost.

My point is...

I didn't find my true passion until now.

I love my job,

but I should be

at the height of my career.

The clock is

ticking so loud and I...

I need to make up for all that lost time.

My coach had a saying

be a team player but run your own race.

He meant you can't compare yourself to

any other player on the field.

We all have our own path to follow.

Our own story.

Sometimes

we get so caught up in what we think

our timeline should be

what the other players are doing

when all we really need to do is

stop

breathe

look around,

and realise

we're exactly where we're meant to be.

You're right.

I think I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.

I see you met my old man earlier.

- I did.

- Mm.

You're so lucky to have a dad like him.

Oh, please don't tell him that.

You're right though.

I am.

He seemed pretty keen to meet you.

- Yeah. He, um...

- Hmm.

He just wanted to know

all about New York.

Ah.

Well, I probably should go say hello.

Thanks for the dance, Georgie Girl.

Hello?

Georgie? Where have you been?

I thought you fell off

the face of the earth.

Hey, Eric. No, I'm just down the coast.

The signal's a little dodgy here,

but it is just so...

What do you mean

you're down the coast?

Don't worry. I'm still

on track with the article.

I got some great photos.

I saw like a 100 kangaroos last night.

Okay, Georgie, Georgie.

You need to get back

to Melbourne ASAP,

you hear me?

Relax. We're going this morning.

Okay.

Or this afternoon.

Geez, I guess my body clock's

still at the same...

No, Georgie, Georgie, Georgie.

Did you not get my voicemail

I sent you yesterday?

Or the emails or the texts

or the IG messages

or the notes that I sent

to your hotel room?

No? Okay.

Well, Morris got you a spot

on Australia's biggest

late-night show tonight.

Are you prepared?

What?

What...

What... what are you...

what are you talking about?

Why would I go on a late-night show?

I'm a... I'm a writer,

not... not a celebrity.

Morris' old friends are the host.

They had a last-minute

cancellation and need a filler.

They seem really excited

about having you on.

Morris wants you to talk about

what you've discovered in Melbourne,

but I think this is a test.

I think he wants to see

if you can step into his shoes.

This is a huge deal, Georgie.

This is exactly what

you've been waiting for.

No, I... I don't... I don't...

I can't... I just... I can't.

I... I... I can't even think!

You all right in there?

All you have to do

is talk about the article.

I... I haven't finished

the article. I barely started

and I've just been so busy and I...

- I can't breathe.

- You haven't started it?

Georgie, what have you been doing?

- Georgie, I'm coming in.

- Don't come in, I'm...

Hey, hey, hey, hey, what happened?

- I... I need to go, now.

- What do you mean?

Why would you let me sleep till 1:00 pm?

I thought you needed the rest.

I'm sorry, I didn't... I didn't mean...

No, I don't need a rest,

I... I need to work.

And now I have to go

to Melbourne to do this

- this late-night show.

- Oh, that's amazing.

- No, it's terrible.

- What? No.

You don't understand.

This was my big opportunity

and I've blown it. I...

I... I should have been

preparing all last night,

not dancing in a barn.

This is... this is a huge

mistake. I... I shouldn't be here.

I thought you said last night

was exactly where you meant to be.

Well, maybe I was wrong.

Okay.

Yeah.

Are you sure

you can't stay a little longer?

I wish I could.

Thanks for everything, Maeve.

I'll be thinking of you

in seven weeks' time.

Please tell me you'll come back and visit.

I really hope so.

- It was great seeing you, Mate.

- You too.

Don't be a stranger, okay?

Thank you both, for everything.

Great.

Hey, Zach.

Don't waste time.

Well, thank you for asking

that question, Danny.

Melbourne is a melting pot

full of cuisines from all over the

world... Oh no, it's terrible, isn't it?

No, no, no. You're... you're doing great.

Okay, yeah, you kind of sound

like an AI robot.

And I don't think you have to thank her

for asking every single question.

This is a nightmare.

Em, what am I going to do?

I'll make a fool of myself on TV.

Just breathe. It's okay.

No, it's not. Morris was counting on me

and I can't even answer

a stupid question

about Melbourne. And...

I'm literally the worst person

for running off on Zach.

He's done nothing wrong.

It's me. I'm the screw-up.

Georgie...

do you remember that day

we went to Water World

when we were kids?

Yes.

You and I dressed up

as mermaids.

We slid down every

single slide about ten times

and we shared that giant bag of candy.

- Best summer ever.

- It sure was.

And when we went back to school,

you stood up in assembly

and told everyone about it.

You remembered every single moment

from that day with meticulous detail.

And... and do you remember

what you said

the best part of that day was?

I don't know. The slip and slide?

You said the best part of the day

was how happy everybody was.

All these kids and families

just having the best day ever.

It wasn't about the place.

It was about the people.

That's what made that day extra special.

I wish things were still so simple

like they were back then.

Things are simple, Georgie.

You were born to do this.

I knew that from the very moment

I saw you make that speech

to 100 snotty kids.

Hey, life's too short

to waste time living in fear.

Go out there and do that

little mermaid proud.

I'll try.

Zach!

Thank goodness you're here.

I thought you might have left.

Well I'm your driver aren't I?

- Well, yeah, but, uh...

- Good to go?

I guess so.

I... I didn't mean what I said before.

No, you're right, Georgie.

I shouldn't have let you

sleep in so late this morning.

I shouldn't have agreed

to stay at the concert.

I should not have driven you

all the way down the coast.

And I should not have agreed

to be your guide.

It's all just been

a big mistake.

But don't worry, I will... I

will still drive you to the airport

tomorrow, yeah?

And we'll both just

move on from

all of this.

Thank you. Thank you

for joining us, everyone.

Well, we have a very special

Aussie icon on the show tonight.

I'm talking about myself, of course.

I'll be outside whenever you're

ready to head back to the hotel.

You're not going to stay and watch?

No, I'll just catch you after.

- Zach, I...

- Georgie.

So glad you could make it.

I'm Annette, producer.

We are so thrilled to have you here.

Sorry for the late notice, by the way.

Oh, no problem at all.

Morris has told me all about you.

It seems you're highly regarded

at the New York Herald.

- I am?

- Mm-hmm.

- I mean, I am.

- Okay, yeah.

We're on a tight schedule tonight.

Between Hugh Jackman

and Cate Blanchet,

we don't have a second to spare.

So it's important

you keep your answers brief.

Brief, but I don't know...

You came on a great night tonight.

Ratings are already through the roof.

2.4 million people

are watching right now.

What?

And you're on in nine

eight, seven, six...

But it's not just about

celebrities on this show.

I do like to talk to normal folk

from time to time.

So I have invited a travel journalist.

She's come all the way from New York.

So please give a big Melbourne

welcome to Georgie Lewis.

Oh, yeah! Come on, Georgie.

Don't you want to take a seat, Georgie?

Thank you, Georgie. Take a seat there.

Thank you for coming

on the show, Georgie.

- Thank you.

- Yeah, so let's start with

what we are all dying to know about.

Well, uh, Melbourne is...

Oh, no, no, no. Not that bit.

We'll want to know

what's going on between

you and Zach Patterson.

Oh, no, no. No, we're not...

You're riding bikes and eating

ice creams together,

that just screams romance to me.

Come on.

He's my guide.

He's been showing me around the city.

Your guide. Okay, no, boring.

Um, so, well, uh...

- Do you like the food?

- Oh, the food was, um...

Uh...

Uh, like a melting pot.

Full of cuisines from all over the world.

It, um, it has a culture of...

No, no, sorry.

It has a vibrant cafe culture.

- Uh...

- Mm-hmm.

Yep.

I'm sorry, um...

I... I thought I was invited

here to talk about

what I've discovered in Melbourne.

And the truth is

it's so much more than

I could have imagined.

I... I drank the best coffee

I've ever tasted.

I saw

street art that should be

hanging in a museum.

I saw a herd of kangaroos

and ate my very first meat pie.

Dazza introduced me to Nuji the koala.

Noah and Ace showed me how

Aussie rules footy is played.

Maeve Miller put on

a performance of a lifetime.

She and Scott showed me

what true love looks like.

And Zach...

Well...

Zach made it all possible.

Without him, I wouldn't have

been able to take it all in.

He helped me discover

a side of Melbourne

that I could have only dreamed about.

And a side of myself that's been

missing for a long time.

I'm sorry. I... I have something

very important I have to do.

Wait! Georgie! We're not finished!

Georgie. Umm I... I didn't...

Zach, I'm so sorry about today.

I never should have said those things.

It's okay. Just slow down.

None of it was true.

I was just so stressed out.

I wasn't mad at you.

I was mad at myself.

- Georgie!

- It's just up here.

Okay.

I need to do more cardio.

It wasn't a mistake.

None of it. I just...

I freaked out.

I thought the article was

the most important thing, but...

It isn't.

Now, I should be the one apologizing.

I didn't mean those things

I said back at the hotel.

This week has been

the furthest thing from a mistake.

I mean, I just, um...

I was just protecting myself.

I'm sorry.

You must be wondering why we're here.

I'm a little curious, yeah.

Well, it's not a hilltop

by your football field.

- Right.

- But

it's officially Monday morning.

Watch out, world!

Patto's coming for you!

- Go on.

- I'm not playing footy anymore.

- I don't know if it counts.

- Of course it counts, Zach.

I saw how you lit up when

you were teaching those boys.

You may be retired,

but you still have so much to offer.

Your career's not over.

It's just been leading to this moment.

Your next chapter.

You better be ready!

He's just getting started, Melbourne!

I'm gonna take this week by storm!

He's gonna win the week!

The only thing I want to win

is you, Georgie Girl.

Huh?

Yeah.

Since the moment I met you.

Georgie, you make me

feel like myself again.

That guy that believes every day

is a new opportunity.

When I'm with you

the world just feels

so much more colorful.

I mean, don't get me wrong,

you're a little chaotic.

You're annoyingly impatient.

You're addicted to schedules.

You're scared of everything

that slithers, swims and crawls.

But you're also just

perfect.

Hey, Zach.

Yeah, Georgie Girl.

Do you ever feel like you've

reached a moment in time

where you're exactly

where you're meant to be?

Absolutely.

Watch that right foot

in the pocket, Isaac!

Keep it coming, get back up to the line!

Let's go, get the couple out the back.

Lads, forward into the pocket!

All right, let's get it between

the sticks this time!

Bring it in!

Make sure you get

a cool down in, place!

Hello!

How was Thailand?

- Colorful.

- Yeah.

- Exotic.

- Yeah.

- Spicy.

- Spicy?

- Mm-hmm.

- I like spicy.

Ready for dinner, you two?

- Yeah, go on!

- Starving!

Let me get that.

Hello, brother.

Oh, I just read

your New Zealand feature.

- It's such a beautiful piece.

- Thanks!

Turns out it is

a completely different country.

Well, you've already decided

our next trip.

We're just gonna wait until

Sophia here, is old enough

to jet boat and bungee jump.

We'll happily be

designated babysitters

for you both, you two daredevils.

So, where to next, Georgie?

I don't know.

Only time will tell.

Yummy!