The lead up to WYD had me in suspense. Going to the city every day for work led me cringing at the thought of the chaos this event would bring to the Sydney cbd. I was imagining so many road blocks, there would be no car or bus access and the streets would be completely, utterly flooded with people.

Its now the morning of Thursday the 17th of July, one of the biggest days for the event and I have to say, not one delay or traffic problem. In fact, the extra people on the streets, carrying flags and banners has created a great atmosphere.

Last night walking from my office I was ready to be pushing through the crowd. As I began the decent up George Street, I only encountered friendly faces, happy chaps from other lands who were just about to celebrate. The pubs were not overflowing with drunk punks, which made a refreshing change for a Sydney event.

I have always thought WYD was a good idea, but was a bit concerned about the amount of tax payer dollars we would be forking out. Now, I am in total favour of it and the fact that it helps our local tourism industry is a bonus.

There has been so much negativity against the Catholic Church and I am all for freedom of expression and for peaceful protest. But an event that is aimed at uniting young people in a positive way can't be bad.

As for all those people who are grumbling over the whole thing, I think I have to agree with my mum when she made this remark about the Pope, 'anyone who loves animals and drinks fanta is ok with me.'