Federation Square

Federation Square

         Public square is a place where residents of a town or city gather on special occasions or for a particular purpose. Or simply a place to while away the time.  It is generally an open, wide space and usually located in a prime land near a major intersection.  It is normally accessible anytime of the day and any day of the week. One such place is Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne City.

         If you have not heard of Federation Square, then you have not been to Melbourne.  If you have not been to Federation Square, then something is missing in your itinerary. It is the easiest place to find. Federation Square is just across Flinders Train Station. It is across St.Paul's Cathedral. It is near the Yarra River.  It is at the junction of Swanston Street and Flinders Street.

          Though severely criticized for its unusual architectural design, Federation Square remains as one of the most popular destinations in the City of Melbourne. There is a giant screen where significant events are covered live for public viewing. In its covered area called Atrium, there is a theater and a wide space for exhibits, bazaars or special functions. There is a hotel cum bar next to it. The Melbourne Racing Museum and the Australian Center for the Moving Image can be found at Federation Square.

          Any day is fun day at the Fed Square.  There are acrobats doing their stunts in front of appreciative viewers. There are magicians stunning the crowd with their tricks. There are cyclists, joggers and plain promenaders converging at the Square. And there are friends gathering at watering holes and exchanging pleasantries. Be it summer, autumn, winter or spring, Federation Square is the right place to be.

- Konted

Federation Square is across St. Paul's Cathedral in the heart of the City.

Significant events can be viewed  through a giant monitor at Federation Square.

At the right side of the square

View of the Yarra River from Federation Square

Melbourne River Cruise starts at the station at Federation Square

Australian Center for the Moving Image is housed at Federation Square.

The Atrium is the covered area of Federation Square.

A restaurant inside the Atrium

Special events are held at Federation Square

Book sale at the Atrium every Saturday

For sale at the Bazaar

In front of Fed Square

The Australian Racing Museum used to be housed at the covered area of Fed Square. It has transferred to  the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Framed souvenir photos

Hotel cum bar 

A horse-drawn carriage passes by Fed Square along Swanston Street.

Watching street entertainers

Magicians awe the crowd with their tricks.

Balancing act

A close-up shot

Relaxing while having a good view of the City

Stairs that lead to the banks of the Yarra River

A trade fair at Fed Square

Men's rowing team maneuvering at the Yarra River

A view of the Princes Bridge and the South Bank from the lower grounds of Federation Square near the Yarra River.

Family outing at Birrarung Mar Park which is next to Fed Square

Lady enjoys the cool breeze at Birrarung Mar Park. It is near the banks of the Yarra River.

It is show time at a trade fair near Fed Square.

Yamaha rider sends a text message before leaving Federation Square.

Bicycles chained to racks at the Square.

Pedals of Greenspeed Recumbent Trikes are in front.

Nice old school bike

Another view of buildings at the South Bank across the public square

On their way to the Melbourne Cricket Ground

Tram station in front of Federation Square

Members of an organization meet at the Square.

Parlor games which include audience participation