WHAT are these guys supposed to be????? It says Year of the Rat, but they don't look like any rats that I've ever seen. To start with.... no tails... no long noses... etc. Maybe one of our Aussie friends was there and has a better idea of these ?????.

Spooked by the walking entombed warriors, Heidi? This is one of a long series of photos taken at the Sydney Parade for the Chinese New Year in February - quite a lot have been on from late February onwards and they are still appearing! 2008 is the Year of the Rat.

So THAT'S what they are. Yes, they're spooky.

Rather creepy for sure

No offense intended -- this is a brilliant idea to show the warriors come to life; however the headgear made me think of bank robbers with pantyhose on their heads. Well, maybe that's just in the US?

White pantyhose wearing, bank robbing, ancient Chinese warriors.

OK.... got it.

Succintly said Heidi (still no rats though!)

Wish this was televised with commentary as to the significance of entries in the parade. Walking entombed warriors - had no idea this was in it. Can anyone tell me why? Is it out of respect for warriors of old?

Re the Warriors - go to Wikepedia Terracotta Army Statues - there a few pictures of them, not much showing about their horses. My friend has pictures from China where they are together - warrior and horses - Its quite a sight.
Judy you are right, it is very clever how they've duplicated them for the parade. China is very proud of these Terracotta Warriors.

I would have the same questions as to the significance of the "walking dead" warriors. I've loved all of the photos in this series, and find this one no exception. Another good photo!

I have seen many photos of the terra cotta warriors- rank upon rank- no 2 alike- each supposedly modeled after actual soldiers. They are awe inspiring.
These, well, I don't see the resemblance.

OK. Now get mad at me.

Uncle... I can't even spot a black and white picture i.e. yesterday...
Would still like to go to Wales thought!!!

though... can't spell either...

Truce. We have to be on good terms to travel to Wales together.

(and my spell check has been VERY busy today)

Bless you my child...

Cheryl's explanation wasn't there, just above my comment, when I posted it. I do know about the clay warriors -- thousands of them -- that were unearthed in China. I failed to connect these silver/gray renditions with the terra cotta ones, LOL.

There is a photo in the archives somewhere of the Terracotta warriors in China. it was a repeat on sudoku a few days ago! Thanks Kate, it's a great photo. Thanks for all the rest we've had & those yet to appear!

Is this parade a yearly event in Sydney? It is obviously quite elaborate! Is there a large Asian population in Oz? I'm enjoying the photos very much -- thanks, Kate!

Yes, it's a yearly event. Yes, there's a significant Asian population. The Sydney Parade is the biggest Chinese New Year Parade outside China.

... and we're pretty pruod of it! Glad you are enjoying it!

I love em, reckon they're brill!