January in Melbourne is synonymous with the Australian Open tennis tournament, the first grand slam title of the calendar year. Last year, world number one Roger Federer famously called the Aussie Open the "happy Open" and the name - naturally - has stuck.
Of the many sports-crazy bloggers around the world, Brian in Oxford has been following the tennis action closely and we've been exchanging emails about some key matches. If you've been watching the action on our new blue Plexicushion courts, do leave me a comment to let me know what you think of the action.
The signature flags with the striking, colourful Aussie Open symbol can be seen all round the city. These particular flags were fluttering in a strong breeze a couple of days ago at Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport. They've been there for weeks, welcoming visitors, officials and players alike.
Our Open is a mix of everything - morning sessions, night sessions, open courts, retractable-roof stadiums, scorching hot weather, cool breezes and (thankfully) some rain as well. One thing's for sure in this sports-mad city. When it comes to tennis, you can't fault our service.