Sigma Lens update

I regret to say that I had to return the wide angle Sigma lens to Warehouse Express today to ask for a replacement. As many other people have reported there seems to be a problem with Quality Control at Sigma. Although I did manage to get a couple of pleasing shots and was happy with the build quality, my lens had severe auto-focussing issues, softness and generally disappointing performance. The top left quarter of the frame appeared to be worst affected by the problem as shown here.

I am hoping the replacement will be here soon and that it will be a good lens. If not, I will get a refund and look for a different marque lens which would be a pity as I am more than happy with my other Sigma lenses, the Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 and Macro 105mm F2.8 EX DG.

I will post test pictures as soon as I have received it.

Chinese Garden of Friendship Sydney, 2008.

We saw this Lizard in the Chinese Gardens of Friendship in Darling Harbour, Sydney last August. It was a beautiful winter Sunday and the lizard was basking by the side of the ornamental lake. The lady in costume was actually just a visitor who had hired the costume-I'm not too sure how authentically dressed she was. 

I wasn't aware of these Gardens the first time I was in Sydney and was really impressed by them.  n.b.  I am talking winter by Sydney-Siders standards. I have had far worse summer weather in England than the weather we had in Sydney, which was a bit cold but mainly dry. Anyway, as I am a bit of a stickler for detail I now wish I had asked what species of reptile this was when I had the chance. Most people who have left comments or recommendations about the Gardens call it a Chinese Water Dragon and who am I to argue with them?