One of the most hardened bunch of competitors in professional sport are having a ball at the friendly 'amateur' Games, immersing themselves in unfamiliar but agreeable surroundings. ``Probably the best week of my life,'' enthused captain Steve Waugh yesterday.

This is one Dream Team without attitude; the life and soul of Australia's party. Quick to congratulate and even quicker to commiserate, they are both inspiring and inspired.

``You might play 200 limited-overs internationals and 100 Tests but they'll remember a Commonwealth gold, or just being here, for ever,'' observed commentator Richie Benaud yesterday. ``They were fighting to be included in the squad.''

Australia achieved their first objective yesterday in record time, wrapping up proceedings at the Pilat Club at precisely 12.42pm, long before club members had even contemplated the day's first gin and tonic.

Waugh's side dismissed New Zealand for 58, a total they reached in just 65 balls; probably the quickest victory in any one-day match between international sides.

The wicket was blameless. Both Waugh and New Zealand captain Steve Fleming agreed it was a 250 track. Nonetheless Damian Fleming ripped through the top order with three for 23 and left-arm spinner Brad Young took four wickets, including a hat-trick. The catching was remarkable, led by big Tom Moody who held three, including two of the hat-trick victims.

Waugh spent the day dashing from the swimming finals to the athletics track. In between four cricket games over the last week he has also spent time at synchronised swimming, squash, gymnastics and hockey.