Hello,
The Brisbane Astronomical Society holds monthly "Public Field Nights" at Mount Coot-tha, on the Saturday closest to the first quarter moon, i.e. half moon. The next one is on Saturday 2nd September.
Here is an excerpt from the BAS website at
http://www.bas.asn.au/bas/public_night.htm
“Our regular Public Viewing Nights are held on the Saturday night closest to the 'First Quarter' phase of the Moon each month. This is always a good time to observe the Moon as the craters and mountain ranges are shown in high contrast near the 'terminator' (the area where the lit part of the Moon joins the unlit part of the Moon).
Our members will be present with a variety of club and personal telescopes and they will be able to show you the Moon and the brighter planets if they are visible in the sky. The positions of the planets vary from month to month, and certain planets may not be visible until a latter date in the year. Our members will also answer any of your astronomical questions and give you some insight into the world of Amateur Astronomy.
The public viewing nights are always located at the Mount Coot-tha Lookout, just outside the Cafe. Viewing will be conducted from 7pm until 9pm.
The public viewing night will be cancelled if it's too cloudy on the night to see the Moon. If in doubt, please check to see if it has been cancelled by phoning our contact line on 3321-8511”.
However, I also believe that the “Riverfire” fireworks festival is on the same night, so Mount Coot-tha can get busy, so be there early if you want a parking spot.
BAS Club Meetings:
The next meeting is Friday 8th September. PM me if you would like details on how to get there.
Hope that helps, and look forward to seeing you and your friends there.
Cheers
Dennis