First Apple Store in Southern Hemisphere

At 5pm on June 19, 2008, Apple opened its first Apple Store at George St, Sydney, Australia.

The first Apple Store in Southern Hemisphere.

From 18 June, 2008 from 7AM people started queuing in front of the store. First one was to arrive was from Melbourne and second was from Brisbane. 2 Apple enthusiasts came from SFO, California for the opening.

I could see the line extending 2 blocks.

I didn't visit the Apple store on the first day, but went there on the second day.

The store is of 3 levels and encapsulated in glass and even the stairs are made up thick heavy glass slabs.

Level 1 is filled with Mac Books, Level 2 iPods, Apple Touch and accessories. Level 3 is sort of Customer Service.

People were flocking the store and taking photos. Staff were trained to handle all sorts of customer and appeared to be friendly.

2 more Apple stores are planned in Australia, one in Sydney and the other in Melbourne.

With 3G iPhone set to officially launched on July 11, 2008, timing of opening Apple Store was perfect.

Not sure whether iPhone will be sold in the Apple Store.

Wait and watch