Tom, Shell and Sebastian (and all the previous new members),
Welcome Tom, to send a PM to another member, click their name in the top left corner of their post. That will display a drop down box with all the options to contact that member. To view your private messages, click "Private Messages" in the top right of the screen under your name.
Hi Shell, welcome! Not jumping in too deep at the start is a wise thought. Binoculars are a perfect way of starting out. And if you can, hook up with a local astro club. Take a look at the club listing:
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/clublistings.html or there might be some members who will suggest a good club for you to pop along and pick up some advice and look through a few telescopes!