AUSTRALIA-NEW YEAR

The beginning of a pyrotechnic display is seen over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House (L) to welcome in the New Year and to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the opening of the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, 31 December 2006. Nearly 100,000 pyrotechnic devices were to be launched from 11 barges in a themed display based on the children's classic "The Wizard Of Oz" to Australia got ready to bring in the new year at 1300 GMT. AFP PHOTO/ DAVID HANCOCK