I'm with you Bensyd. There is post after post demonstrating how much this chap dislikes Australia and Australians. The generalities flow thick and fast. I have no real idea why but it does seem a touch obsessive. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and this poster's views should be considered given that background.

The issue for me is by commenting do you provoke more obsession? Most people are pretty good at picking an extremist.

As for Melbourne, it lacks a Harbour and an Opera House (at least the stunning exterior of a Sydney Opera House) but in my view is a great city for a tourist given its ambiance, people friendliness, restaurants, clubs, bars, parks, gardens, museums, theatre, sporting events, opportunity to do fascinating day trips (Dandenongs, snowfields, Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, Ballarat) and physical attraction. All up 8 days there would be great and I hope the OP has a wonderful time.