1 of 7 A spectacular fireworks display on the Sydney Harbour Bridge starts the countdown to the World Cup opener
2 of 7 Three excited Wallaby fans turn up at the Telstra Stadium looking forward to the opening ceremony and the encounter between Australia and Argentina
3 of 7 The opening ceremony gets underway with 711 children working together to form the shape of a rugby player named Rocky
4 of 7 The Telstra Stadium is lit up as the opening ceremony highlights the variety of cultures and characteristics of the host country
5 of 7 Fire sprites make their way around the stadium in a 'carousel' of flames, creating an impressive spectacle
6 of 7 Painted Aboriginal dancers cleanse the stadium with burning gum leaves before welcoming the world's rugby fans with a "stomping" dance
7 of 7 Performers symbolise Australia's close connection with water as the dramatic opening ceremony draws to a close
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England heroes profiled