Even the continuing blast-furnace heat has done nothing to wear out the Barmy Army's spirits on day three of the first Test at the Gabba, today.

Here, beer breakfasts are pretty much essential to avoid dehydration.

Ever health conscious, the members of the Barmy Army are sure to drink enough fluids to counter the ill effects of perspiration and exertion.

A side benefit of this high fluid intake is the lubrication of the vocal chords, something done to good effect today.

Another way of countering the heat is to remove as much clothing as possible.

Normally stiffled by bras, corsets, bodices, aprons and shawls, scores of female cricket fans shed their threads to reveal cooling bikinis; some even removed these momentarily, yet often.

Today saw a marked increase in bare flesh among the fairer footsoldiers - something to be well encouraged during the long, hard days of the tour.

Some followers had decorated their breasts with George Crosses in the name of patriotism.

This behaviour is well beyond the regular call of duty, but is deeply encouraged for long, hard, days of play. Congratulations to all those involved.

Sadly fully dressed, yet just as "up for it" as any England fan, WPCs from Brisbane's finest provided entertainment for the crowd.

It must be said that the Queensland Constabulary have behaved fairly and with humour throughout the first three days of this match.

Although trouble among the visiting supporters is generally unheard of during an England cricket tour, the police have assembled in numbers around the main section of England fans.

Beginning the match as onlookers, the police have become celebrities with their good-humoured attitude and enjoyment of the Barmy Army's way of doing things.

One particular star was PC Samantha Ellis, who dealt with policing the crowd professionally, sensitively and with humour.

The behaviour of the police has been a welcome aspect of this Test match, and an interview with the honourary Barmies in Blue will appear on this website following the conclusion of the game.

Hopefully, the heat will continue to the end of the match - or at least until England need a long rain delay.

Until then, though, the Barmies will continue to soldier on in the sun, barely dressed and barely sober, but enjoying every minute of this Test match.

© Barmy Army