In the midst of light drizzles, smoke and sweetness alike lingering in the dews, anticipation and excitement bubbles and brew beneath the chaotic buzz. Small pools of water flood the ground, splashing playfully as footsteps dance across the pavement. The humid air carries an electric energy building towards a faithful day, the perfect opening act to Monash’s tenth yearly ‘Olympics’ some might say. 

The once lazy, quiet and slumbering campus was filled high with tension. The sound of sizzling grills, raised pitches over the bustling crowds, murmurs and chattering creating a melody unique only to Monashians. In the corner of the eye, one would find students huffing, sweat in their brows as they practice for fierce competitions ahead. Meanwhile, the bazaar is lively and chaotic, all students alike mingling in the shared space. From tiny trinkets, handcrafted specialties, the weaving fate of tarot, there’s nothing you can’t find in this bazaar, unless it’s illegal of course. The goods sparkle under the dazzling light of each booth, decorated with utmost care to attract butterflies and bees.

Vendors smile in welcome, eyes curved and arms open in greeting. Students flock about, friends come around in groups, eyes scouring over the colourful display in interest, occasionally lighting up in delight. Pan over to the booth beside you, and you might see some sweating from nerves, picking and shaking each box carefully, trying to decipher the trinket hidden inside the tower of blind boxes that line the small booth. Around the corner, the similar feelings are brewing as cards are turned over with practiced hands and fate decided through tarot readings. Be careful what you wish for some might say.

With pockets feeling slightly lighter or wandering about after long hours of droning lectures, one can’t help but be lured in by the aroma of food dancing in the humid air like moth to a flame, mouths watering and salivating. Stomachs protest in silent growls as one queues patiently for the plethora of food stalls offered, from crunchy savoury snacks, sweet bites that blow away lingering sadness to meals warm and comforting in the cloudy days. Decisions tangle together, footsteps lingering and uncertain as minds ponder while others move with purpose, navigating the crowd with expertise towards their stomach’s choosing.

Beneath each tent, vendors move with fluid ease, movement sharp and precise as they process orders flooding in. The sizzling sounds in tune with grumbling appetites, creating a harmony full of warmth. Names are called, orders fulfilled, and stomachs full and happy. Maybe you’ll find yourself cozy and sleepy after a satisfying meal during lectures but at least your stomach is now at peace, despite the assignments and stress catching up to you. Perhaps after, you’ll catch up with a friend, grab some drinks at the bazaar as you rant about assignments and that one lecturer you can’t stand. And maybe, you’ll remember that Monash Cup opening ceremony begins that Friday, something one can look forward to, with plenty of activities lined up, an event to be remembered for years to come. 

As the curtains rise upon the awaited act of the year, are you ready for what’s to come?

written by Jia Wei

photographer Simra