Lost: One Doggerel
Melbourne Romp ran last weekend, a mix of treasure hunt, Amazing Race and puzzle. To compete, say the organisers, you need a team, a mobile and a sense of adventure, sleuthing clues around town in hope of snagging part of a 10-grand purse.
You also need an IQ above 180 to crack this final rhyme pitched at the event’s University Level. A mate called Beck shot me this poetic finale and I can’t find the gem just yet. Sifting for hidden words – or landmarks – I’ve managed to pinpoint such tempting morsels as STONE, and DIANA, and RYDE LIGHTS – but can’t say they ring a Melbourne bell.
Have you got a spare aeon? Take a look and see if you can spot the icon. The spelling and scansion is intact. I’ve tried reading it backwards, and instead of ‘Myer Christmas Windows’, I got EMYHRSIHT and other nonsense. Maybe you will fare better. Any theories welcome.
Hello, our dear Melbournians. Have we a puzzle for you!
Below, above and here, will step you through the coded clue.
Sure you know Melbourne! It’s a divine place to live.
Flames, culture, cafes what more is there to give?
Our Yarra and Port Phillip provide waterways galore,
You be judge, with eyes cast wide, theres a bounty to explore!
A centre for countless sports fans, great spectacles to attend,
Laneways fill our landscape, find many a hidden gem!
The city streets are beaut by day, glorious by night,
Jog, row, cycle or walk to a fitness buff’s delight.
Theatre let’s not forget is central to our locale,
Home for artists and aficionados; each a story to tell.
History aplenty, in buildings, parks and ways,
An experience that is delivered, to many differing tastes.
Universities? Several, for you to learn in lecture,
Art Deco, Victorian, Edwardian architecture.
Culinary delights tantalise your tastebud pleasure,
Wines from our local regions, a great selection at your leisure.
But just one Melbourne icon is contained within these lines,
Sounds like it’s time…write down the answer to this rhyme!