IceInSpace Star Camp 2005, Ballarat Victoria

[iceman]

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/downloads/starcamp.jpg

Hi guys.

This thread is to become the "official" thread for the Oct/Nov Star Camp at Ballarat, Victoria.. kindly being organised by Ken (BallaratDragons) and John (xstream).

I've created a page on the website with relevant information, as well as a button on the side bar. Here's the page (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/index.php?id=55,215,0,0,1,0).

The star camp is being advertised in the Activities section of the next issue of AS&T, so it's bound to get more people interested. If you're keen to attend, book your place now!

Ken, it might be a good idea to reply to this thread with:
a) Who is coming
b) On-site accomodation places still available
c) Events, talks, activities, competitions that are organised for the camp

It can then be updated as people book in and activites are confirmed.

I think i'm right in saying that it's free entry if you stay off-site, the cost is for onsite accomodation only.

I'll be there with my family, for at least 2 of the days. We'll be staying off-site.

Hope to see some more people making the interstate trek!

[iceman]

I'm booking in for 4 nights at the Pimpernell http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

So I'm planning to be there Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon nights.

Who's going, and what nights is everyone planning on going/staying?

Trying to plan a Great Ocean Road trip for the time we're there, too.

[iceman]

Un-stickying to make it more visible, too. :D

[dhumpie]

Hey Mike,

Where can I get some Ice In Space stickers?

Darren

[xstream]

Anna and I are staying the 4 nights.
Mike I'll PM you about your trip down.

[Striker]

This looks fantastic......

Their is no way I can commit to something like this that is so far away in time and distance.....but their's nothing stopping me turning up at the last moment is their.?????

I could always suggest to work that I am needed in Melbourne.

Anyway I will get in for free......you said it in the post...under 4 years old are free....lol.

[ballaratdragons]

Tony,

It would be great to have you down here. Keep us informed.

[davidpretorius]

How is the site for young ones. I have a two year old and 5.5 year old. Family will probabley get bored for the whole time, but I mught stay the lot and the rest of the family may shoot to gisbourne to see family. I know Mike has young kids, but is staying off site.

[ballaratdragons]

Dave, There will be other young'ens there. The youngest so far, other than your nippers, is 5. Would be good if you could stay the whole 4 nights. Great viewing here!!

[davidpretorius]

I am 60% certain for the 4 days on site, I may have my 5 year old come and stay for say 2 nights. Wife and youngest will be in gisbourne and would probabley get involved with family events ie bbq lunches and gold digging etc.

[iceman]

Yeh I have 3 youngens (6, 4 and 1) and I'll be there the 4 nights, but not staying on site.. We'll be there for some daytime stuff, but we're also using it as our annual holiday so we'll be doing touristy things during the days, including day trips to Melbourne, and of course the sight-seeing around Ballarat (sovereign hill etc).

Looking forward to it.

[ballaratdragons]

So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 3 nights
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 2 nights - Paid

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 23 on-site

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 4 bed bunkhouse
3 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon


Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[ballaratdragons]

NEWS:We have our first Tasmanian Booking! Dave (davidpretorius) will be staying 4 nights and his daughter on some of the nights. Thanks Dave for coming over to the BIG Island.

New member Trevor (OneOfOne) has booked a bunkhouse for 4 nights with a group of 4-6. Well done Trevor, welcome aboard.

A 4 night booking has been made by Darren (wombat_in_space) and Family. Thanks Darren.

The Star Camp has now been advertised in the August 'Australian Sky & Telescope' which is available now, and soon to be in 'Sky & Space'.

Australian Sky & Telescope will be assisting with raffle prizes (thanks to Greg Bryant) and I have just recieved an email from Jonathan West from 'York Optical' in Melbourne requesting further info.

Only 3 months to go. BOOK NOW!

For availability of accommodation please refer to the post above which will be updated regularly.

NOTE: Please keep this thread free of Chit-Chat. Thank You.

Below there are some pics of the Camp.

Pic 1.Front of Camp & Camp Lake. Pic 2.Bunkouses & Amenities. Pic 3.Viewing Area

[davidpretorius]

fairly certain i will be there, but with a five year old daughter staying for a couple of nights, I reckon it will best to do the tent option.

when does daylight saving start on the north island for viewing times etc

[Crash Nebula]

I wish I could go but I haven't enough money! We need to have one in QLD... :D

[cahullian]

Im getting excited
I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas lol
Gazz
Ken can you pm me with details of how I can pay for the accommodation
Thanks Gazz

[ballaratdragons]

OK Dave! If you are tenting it that leaves another Bunkhouse available if anyone else wants it.

I haven't checked when daylight saving starts. I will look it up and post it in here as an edit.

EDIT: Found it. Believe it or not it starts during the Camp!! This is off the Victorian Daylight Saving site:

Daylight Saving Dates
2005/2006
Starts: 2 am EST (Eastern Standard Time) on 30 October 2005
Ends: 2 am EST (Eastern Standard Time) on 26 March 2006

[[1ponders]]

Start organizing then Charlie :D

[Crash Nebula]

Yoiu'll have to help me... Andrew too... :rofl:

[davidpretorius]

Ken, when you say bunk house, are there are 4 bunks in there? And we are all sharing ie me and 3 others. The main reason I went tent is that not sure how comfortable people would feel with a kid staying in the same room. If there is room, I would prefer bunk house, so that my daughter can come and stay any night. Is this possible. At the same time, don't want to take beds from people that may be wanting to come.

thanks

[ballaratdragons]

Dave,

The bunkhouses are private, seperate, little buildings. See pics in previous post. The 4 bed Bunkhouse has 2 sets of double bunks in it. Double bunk as in 'upper & lower' bunk!

That is how Bunkhouses are set up. Obviously an 8 bed bunkhouse has 4 double bunks.

Much more private than Dorm style. And your personal items, scopes etc are safer than dorm style. On the other hand, many people prefer their own tents for many reasons!

Let me know which one you decide on (bunkhouse or tent). :thumbsup:

[davidpretorius]

Thanks Ken, so in summary for $52.80, i have my own private bunkhouse for 4 nights?

[xstream]

That's correct Dave, unless you decide to share.

[davidpretorius]

Ken, thanks again, please book me in for a bunk house for 4 nights. I am happy to share with others as long as they are aware that there may be my five year old daughter there on some of the nights.

[ballaratdragons]

Dave, see PM.

[ballaratdragons]

Just a reminder to all you good folk to check the Accommodation Availability and News about the Camp. They are starting to get buried amongst the other posts.

To keep up-to-date, refer to: Post Numbers 12 & 13 on page 1 in this thread.

[davidpretorius]

Ken, please pm with your mobile again so i can get your bank details. I was playing and deleted all my pms

thanks

[ballaratdragons]

Dave, I will PM you the details now!

[ballaratdragons]

NEWS: There will be a Buy/Swap/Sell table (area) set up at the Star Camp for anyone wishing to take advantage of it. Bring along those extra un-needed Astro items and sell or swap them. Everyone else, bring your cash!

The Buy/Swap/Sell will be open in the Dining Room from 4pm till 5pm Saturday :thumbsup:

*Astro Dealers are welcome to sell their goods at the BUY/SWAP/SELL

[ballaratdragons]

Just a reminder to all you good folk to check the Accommodation Availability and News posts about the Camp. They are starting to get buried amongst the other posts.

We have people coming from as far north as Newcastle and as far south as Launceston. Who can beat it?

To keep up-to-date, refer to: Post Numbers 12 & 13 on page 1 in this thread.

[ballaratdragons]

UPDATE

Xstream and I are organising a 'Spit Roast Feast' with salads etc for one of the nights!
We will attempt to keep the price very low and all money will go to the running of the IceInSpace website.

BUT we need feedback from those of you that will be attending for catering purposes:

1. How many attendees (on and off-site) will purchase a 'Spit Feast'
(Don't say "we will". Please supply number of meals in your group)

2. Preferred night: Saturday or Sunday? (majority wins)
(Be aware that Saturday evening we will also be visiting Ballarat Observatory)

Please post your feedback in here.

Thank You

[janoskiss]

Ken, I'm there! Four nights. Is there any accommodation still available on site? I'm up for spit feast too. Sunday's got my vote. And I'm a loner. :thumbsup:

[Dave47tuc]

Good one Lads :thumbsup:


Prefer Saturday or Sunday as I'm there for the 4 days I don't mind.

And meal for 2 :thumbsup:

[davidpretorius]

sunday works for me, lisa (adult), dave (adult) and a five year old and a 2 year old

[Wombat_In_Space]

Ken put us down for sunday and 4 people please.:thumbsup:

[Starkler]

Sunday for one please.

[ballaratdragons]

So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 2 nights - Paid

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 24 on-site

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 4 bed bunkhouse
3 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[ballaratdragons]

1. This is a Plan of the Snake Valley Camp so you can familiarise yourself with the layout.

The small numbered squares are the Bunkhouses.

2. And a very basic Map of how to get to the Camp from the Western Highway at the Melbourne end of Ballarat.

[Stu]

If that last 4 bed bunkhouse is still available I'll take it for the Fri, Sat and Sun nights. Thanks.

[ballaratdragons]

For some reason I have lost the 'EDIT' button on the post about who's coming and what's happening!

Just add 'Stu x 3 nights' to the list.

It will be Stu's Birthday at the Camp, so we'll give him a special birthday tea.

[ballaratdragons]

So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 2 nights - Paid
TOTAL SO FAR - approx 26 on-site

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

3 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[cahullian]

Ken I might be able to swing 4 nights. I'll let you know in the next couple of days.

Gazz

[iceman]

Spit Roast: 4 meals for me please.

[ballaratdragons]

LOT LONG TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 2 nights - Paid
TOTAL SO FAR - approx 26 on-site

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

3 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[cahullian]

Ken I am 4 nights for sure mate, :cool: please pm me your details again and I will deposit the rest into your account asap. :thumbsup:
Thanks Gazz

[OneOfOne]

Just a few quick questions, hopefully with equally quick answers,

What is the magnetic deviation (roughly) at the site?
What is the latitude and longitude?

One final quesion, when daylight savings kicks in over the camp, if we are up at that time will the stars "jump back 15 degrees?" I have never actually been up when savings kicks in, just change it before I go to bed.

[davidpretorius]

also is there power in the bunk houses? i am bringing a battery charger and laptop and hair dryer and ..... just jokes, not enough hair for hair dryer

[ballaratdragons]

Gazz, That's excellent!!

One of One, Huh? Magnetic deviation? Lat: -37.617 Long: 143.583

Dave, will ring the Manager and ask about power in Bunkhouses. There is power adjacent to the viewing area.

[cahullian]

Hey Ken I still need to pay for the extra nights mate. please let me know how much i owe you for this. Plane tickets are booked and hire car is on stand by. All I need now is a scope small enough to get on a plane or maybe a pair of binos worth bringing along. Is there anyone I could rent a scope off for a few days???

Gazz/Irish

[toetoe]

I think there will be plenty to look through Gazz, even my great big HUGE 4.5 Tasco will be there, and the binocs, i don't mind sharing.. :thumbsup:

[cahullian]

Thanks Peter. I have a pair of 16x50 binos but I'm hoping to con another pair out of my better half before I go :whistle: Or maybe the 90x600 refractor I see they are going quite cheat these days.

Gazz/Irish

[janoskiss]

"quite cheat" Gazz?? Is that a bit of a Freudian slip of the fingertips on the keyboard? :lol::rofl::rofl::lol:

I'm sure there will be plenty of scopes to look through and you won't get bored even if you don't have your own scope. Hey, I'll be bringing two! :D

[iceman]

I'm not taking my scope. For me, it'll be more about socialising and looking through other people's scopes than spending time on my own in the corner of the paddock :)

[ballaratdragons]

Gazz,

I will get on to it for you mate, I've not been too well of late.

Must be all that Grand Final & playing at Olympic Park excitement catching up with me.

[xstream]

Mike, make sure you bring your 14mm with you it would be nice to try it out.

While we're at it Guys and Gals, with the influx of new members it would be nice to see a few more participants. Even if only for one or two nights.

[ballaratdragons]

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones:

NOT LONG TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp.


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles x 3 nights
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 29 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

2 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[Dave47tuc]

Hi All, :)
As it is not long to go to the camp.
I thought I would let some know of the sky highlights that will be on show.

First and foremost the Planet Mars will be close to opposition. Best time for observing.
Mars will test scopes and Observing skills. :poke:
Venus will be high in the Western sky after sunset, with Mercury a little lower.

Southern & Northern Taurids Meteors will be close to peak. I have observed this shower many times and are very good. Bring your banana lounges!! :P

So many Deep Sky objects to choose, to many to list here. Let’s hope for great weather and clear nights. For those just thinking about coming along I urge you to do so. It should be a super time, and to meet fellow IceinSapce Members and enjoy the night and day skies. :D

I will have my scope and EP’s and I’m sure there will be plenty of scopes for others to look through. See you there. :thumbsup:

[davidpretorius]

mike, can you bring your ep's and barlows?

gazz, you must know us well enough that you can share a scope.

i will be making such a pest of myself trying to look thru everything!!

[acropolite]

That's when he's not running around naked with only a headlamp on.....:P

[iceman]

I'll definitely bring my eyepiece case.

[OneOfOne]

Sorry for taking so long to get back to the group (work is annoying sometimes isn't it). Thanks for the co-ordinates, I have written them down.

The deviation is how much the true north deviates from magnetic, in Melbourne it is about 12 degrees east, so I point my scope about 12 degrees west of (magnetic) north on the compass and the goto seems to work ok...as a guess, it is probably about 12 degrees too.

[ballaratdragons]

IF YOU WANT TO BOOK A BUNKHOUSE, BE QUICK! THERE ARE ONLY 2 LEFT. LOT'S OF CAMPING SPACE STILL AVAILABLE.

We would like to thank Sharon & Michael & their son Giles for booking.


ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
NOT LONG TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp.


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights
*Dave's friends x 4 nights
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 29 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night



The onsite Accommodation Still available:

2 x 8 bed bunkhouses
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

[cahullian]

Ken sorry to hear you were under the weather for a while.
Now that you are fit and healthy and raring to go...do you have a map of the area? As I have no idea where the site is on a map, any map...lol I am Irish after all.

Irish/Gazz

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Gazz, I can organise some maps. I have PM'd you re: Fees.

[ballaratdragons]

Here you go Gazz and anyone else!

http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=15984000.7446277&Y=-4501000.77227557&width=700&height=400&gride=&gridn=&srec=0&coordsys=mercator&db=AU&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&zm=0&scale=25000&down.x=288&down.y=6

This is a link to Multi-map. The lake marked as CEBS Camp is the Camp. Snake Valley is just to the North of this page, hit the up arrow a few times. For a larger map use the Zoom feature in the top left corner of the map.

I will post a direction map as soon as I draw one.

[ballaratdragons]

I have drawn the map, but no matter what I try I cannot change it from a Word Document to a JPEG!

I am also unable to get it into PhotShop. I got it into Paint and it looks terrible and is un-readable.

If I attach it to an email to someone, would one of you please place it in here so people can use it to find the Camp from the Western Hwy and Glenelg Hwy.

[iceman]

Email me, BD. mike at iceinspace dot com dot au

[iceman]

Here be the map, which helps me cause i'm staying at pippinella motel :D

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Mike.

Yeah, I put Peppinella Motel on the Map for you as I know you are staying there.

Just PLEASE watch out for Kangaroos!!!! The road from Smythesdale to Snake Valley is full of them.

[ballaratdragons]

DON'T MISS OUT

IF YOU WANT TO BOOK A BUNKHOUSE, BE QUICK! THERE IS ONLY 1 LEFT. BUT LOT'S OF CAMPING SPACE STILL AVAILABLE.

We would like to thank Sharon & Michael & their son Giles for booking.

Also Peter Read for booking in all 4 nights and his presentation on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian.


ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
NOT LONG TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 29 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night

Number of attendees Total: approx 37

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (7 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: (Itinarary is yet to be set)

*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[ballaratdragons]

NEWS

Peter Read will be giving a pesentation at the Star Camp entitled: 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian Telescope'.

I would like to thank Peter for his interest in the Camp and his offer of the presentation.

Peter also informed me that he is willing to share his bunkhouse with others wanting to come to the Camp. He is alone in an 8 bed bunkhouse!

We also still have an empty 8 bed bunkhouse and acres of space in the 2 camping areas.

Please see the post directly above this one for current Camp updates.

[ballaratdragons]

NEWER UPDATED NEWS!

Saturday 29th October (during the Camp) is:

'RALLY IN THE VALLEY'

9:30am - 11:30am Fun Dog Gymkhana
12:30 - 1:30pm Tug 'o'war, sack races etc
2:30pm - Trash & Treasure Auction
Plus - HOT RODS, Sausage sizzle & take-away, Raffles, homemade confectionary, cakes plants & produce stalls, 2nd hand goods, Lucky dips, Steam Engine on display, Devonshire teas and photographic display.
FREE shuttle bus to 'Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally' leaves regularly from the General Store.

Isn't it nice of 'Snake Valley' to put on a special day for us!

Actually the Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally is very good and people come from all over Australia to see it! It is only about 10 minutes away from here. The 'Rally in the Valley' is only 2 minutes drive from Camp.

Sounds like a bit of fun before we have our BBQ and head up to the Ballarat Historic Observatory.

[h0ughy]

How are you goin to fit all the activities in on that weekend. Wish I was going.

[GrampianStars]

G'day Guy's
You all must be on serious mind altering drugs :innocent:
after staying up all night viewing and ccd'ing :thumbsup:
Then racing around all day event'ing

I can only make Friday night till early morning twilight
then home for some Z's :zzz:

[ballaratdragons]

That sounds great Robert. Will be good to have you along.

I doubt that many people will be up at the early hours tearing off to a Dog Gymkhana, Tug'o'war' and a sack race.

But the Hot Rods sound good to take a sticky-beak at!

I have placed an article about the Star Camp in the local Newsletter today (widely delivered) and I politely asked residents of Snake Valley and surrounding towns to kindly refrain from 'burning off' or using excessive outdoor lighting during the camp. The local CFA is going to ask CFA's in nearby districts not to have burn-offs. :thumbsup:

[davidpretorius]

you are a legend ken, lets hope for great weather!!

[ballaratdragons]

I've already ordered it Dave! :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

All the CFA branches of Western Victoria have been notified by Ballarat CFA Headquarters that we will be having the Star Camp and could they please not have any Burn-offs that week-end! The replies from all was 'If they do happen to have any burn-offs that week-end and if the wind is blowing towards the area of Snake Valley they will relocate and burn-off in other areas that will not affect us'.

Now that's co-operation!! Onya CFA! :thumbsup:

[Dave47tuc]

Thanks to the lads in the CFA :thumbsup:

Good work Ken :thumbsup:

[xstream]

They're a great bunch alright.
Thanks guys.:thumbsup:

[cahullian]

thanks for the map Ken and Mike now I know where to go when I get off the plane:driving:

[Moonman]

This sounds great!!

I'd love to come along but alas I've spent all my travel budget on a trip to Brisbane for a couple of days earlier in the month. :doh:

Hope to get to one sooner or later. :prey:

Keep up the good work guys :cool:

[davidpretorius]

Not to worry moonman, I have started the brain working on a tassie star camp say in 2006 or 7. Make some bookings at a dark site, accomodation etc. Guys could come in from around australia.

[ballaratdragons]

IceInSpace 2005 Snake Valley
STAR CAMP
EVENTS PROGRAM

Sponsored by Australian Sky & Telescope Magazine

All events listed are optional

Friday 28th Oct
5pm - Camp Open
5 - 7pm - Meet & Greet get together
7pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Saturday 29th Oct
Free Time
9am - 3pm - 'Rally in the Valley'
3pm - Beginners Workshop (Mirror cleaning, collimation)
4 - 5pm - BUY/SWAP/SELL & Vendors stalls
5pm - 'Deep Sky Observing' - David Girling
7 - 8pm - Ballarat Historic Observatory (leaving Camp at 6:30pm)
8:30pm - Viewing at Camp
___________________________________ ____________________

Sunday 30th Oct
Free Time
4pm - 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian' - Peter Read
5:30pm - Group Photo being taken (please attend)
6pm - 'SPIT ROAST FEAST' - $10 per head
7pm - 'Leonids - a night to remember' - David Girling
8pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Monday 31st Oct
Free Time
2pm - Historic Gold Diggings & Trestle Bridge
5pm - 'Venus Transit' & Video Footage - David Girling
7pm - Raffle Draws & Competition Awards
7:30pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Tuesday 1st Nov
Final get-together & Farewells
1pm - Camp Closed
___________________________________ ____________________
Printable version of program at bottom of this post

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
ONLY 4 WEEKS TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Bird x 3 nights
*Daniel Granieri x 2 nights

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 31 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night
Dave (Snake Valley local)

Number of attendees Total: approx 41

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (5 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: See Events Program at top of this post
*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[iceman]

Looks great Ken!

[ballaratdragons]

A big thankyou to 'Australian Sky & Telescope' magazine for jumping on board and becoming a Sponsor of the Star Camp. :thumbsup:

If you have not yet seen the Program for the Camp it is 2 posts back. Come along and join us! we are approx 40 strong now!!

[davidpretorius]

ken,

food, apart from sunday night, is there a local supermarket to buy food, do we need eskys to keep the food / milk etc

Sumthing i had not thought of! Hope my wife isn't reading this and pointing out my shortcomings!!

[xstream]

David, There are 3 fridges on site available for use, Snake valley has a general store with T/A, I would imagine if you need a more comprehensive variety you would need to travel into Ballarat 20 mins drive away.

[davidpretorius]

thanks John, I assume everyone is doing the bbq / salad things for dinner most nights???

[Starkler]

A couple of questions...

Is there power and lighting inside the accom huts?

Has anyone checked the light situation at night in the camp area? I wonder if we need to arrange some black plastic and duct tape for the rec room or other camp buildings to cover their windows. Whilst some are observing im sure kids and others will want to use other facilities of the camp.

[davidpretorius]

i can donate as much duct tape as we need if required!

[xstream]

I would imagine so David, i think that's what Anna and I will do.

[xstream]

I'm not sure about the power Geoff, I know Ken was asked the question once before but I don't know what the answer was.

The lighting situation has been checked out and yes we will need to black out a few windows and change some light globes.

[Dave47tuc]

So is there BBQ's outside onsite?

[xstream]

Yes there is Dave.

[xstream]

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/index.php?id=55,215,0,0,1,0

[davidpretorius]

oops, sorry!!

not quite as much fun as being lazy though!!!

[ballaratdragons]

To help John answer some of the questions above:

5 of the 12 bunkhouses have power but I have not been able to find out which ones. I was to meet the manager there this weekend but he must have gotten waylaid. He did say there is also power in all the main buildings , the rec room and the garage. As far as I know all the huts have lights.

John and I will be blacking out any obtrusive window lights and replacing any nuisence light globes with red ones.

The kitchen is fully equipped with 3 fridge/freezers, microwave oven, conventional oven, plates, bowls, cutlery, cooking utensils etc, etc, etc.

The BBQ is an outdoor one in an attractive setting by a gazebo.

The big security floodlight is being turned off by Powercor for the duration of the camp.

As for meals, you will need to feed yourself except Sunday night when we have the feast. There is a General Store in Snake Valley (2 minutes), a take-away food caravan Fri Sat & Sun nights (2 minutes), Take-away food at the Linton general Store (4 minutes) and take-away & a smallish supermarket at Smythesdale (8 minutes). For meat it might be worth the trip into Ballarat Saturday morning and visit a butcher or larger supermarket. The 2 local General stores and supermarket don't carry much in the way of meat.

Hope that answers your queries. If you have any more just ask. :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

We have just today reached the 40 mark!

40 people so far will be attending the Star Camp and there is plenty of room for lots more. There is still an 8 bed bunkhouse available, 6 bunks in another 8 bed bunkhouse and lots and lots and lots of camping space!

The invitation is open to all, so all you visitors to this forum that are reading this are very welcome too.

If you are not a member in here, you can either join and reply in this thread or ring me on 0418 425 207. We have already recieved 5 bookings from people who are not members. One read about it in here and the others read about it in Aust Sky & Telescope. :thumbsup:

[iceman]

Great stuff BD, only 3 weeks to go until my holiday starts!

[davidpretorius]

yes, top effort Touken!

[davidpretorius]

Hey Ken,

my wife and littlest are coming to stay on the sunday night after the spit roast in the bunk house, what was single night charges?

Ken has a toucam, Ken has a toucam!

[ballaratdragons]

I'll have to PM you the fee when I find it. I think 1 night was just over half of the 2 night fee. Not sure. I shall track it down.

[ballaratdragons]

For those attending the Star Camp here is the Guidelines Flyer.



IceInSpace Vic Star Camp

Snake Valley 2005

Welcome to the first IceInSpace Vic Star Camp! We hope you enjoy the opportunity to meet, socialise and observe with amateur astronomers of varying experience levels under the dark skies of Snake Valley.

This flyer lists some guidelines, which we ask everybody’s cooperation in following. This will ensure that everybody can gain maximum enjoyment from their observing time at Snake Valley.

Lights off after dark!

Many people have come to Snake Valley for the rare experience of observing at a dark sky site, and wish to gain the most from it. This means restrictions on lights used after twilight when observing will commence. We like to do it in the dark!

• No white light torches to be used on or near the observing field. Red led torches or weaker torches such as 2xAA battery torches may be acceptable if the lens is covered with red cellophane.

• People driving into or out of the camp after dark should do so with headlights off. Car interior and boot lights should also be disabled to prevent them from coming on when opened.

• All people staying at the camp need to be mindful of the need to limit extraneous light.
eg: keeping doors closed in camp buildings with interior lights.

• Laptop computers can throw out a lot of light, please keep screens covered and out of view of other observers.

• Due to excessive light from the Recreation Room it will be locked at sundown. Videos and DVD’s can be watched in the dining room as an alternative.


General observing field etiquette

A few general pointers to ensure that everybody gets along and enjoys themselves.
Most of these are common sense but need to be stated all the same.

• People have come to the Star Camp for varying reasons, some want to check out as much equipment as possible, whilst others wish to make the most of the dark sky experience with as much quality observing time as possible. If somebody is engrossed in their observing, don’t disturb them unnecessarily.

• Never touch anybody’s equipment without invitation from the owner. If someone is kind enough to loan equipment to you, do not on-loan to a 3rd party without the owner’s knowledge and consent. Loitering around other people’s equipment without the owner being present won’t gain any friends either.

• Parents with children please keep them under supervision and control when anywhere near telescopes and equipment. Instruct children they can look when invited, but never to touch.

• Ladies (or gentleman where applicable), please don’t wear makeup (especially mascara) if you wish to view through other peoples telescopes. Such makeup can leave greasy smudge marks on eyepiece optics and be difficult to clean off.

Thanks for your cooperation, have a great time at Snake Valley 2005 !

.

[davidpretorius]

thanks Ken, sensible,

i may want to take issue with you about my mascara though!

[Starkler]

It got through censorship almost totally unscathed :)

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Geoff, I only added the Rec Room bit (had to). Thanks for the work you and Dave G did. :thumbsup:

[h0ughy]

You victorians have me a little bit worried, Mascara!

Ken these light polution rules sound very sane, I think you should allow us to use them for the IISA at Lostock next January.

Also have you thought about buying some lights and painting them red? they did that at Qld Astrofest

[janoskiss]

Sounds good Ken, but it might need some tension-easing remarks like: Feel free to ask fellow astronomers to lend their scope or eyepiece for a look-through or for comparison with your own dodgy scope... :whistle: :D
:prey:

[ballaratdragons]

Houghy, I didn't write it! But you can use it I suppose, but you will have to ask the moderators or Mike.

Steve, just get on your knees and grovel. I will let you try my fantastic Series 500's if you behave.

[janoskiss]

Ken,

:prey2: :prey2: :prey2: :bowdown: :prey2: :prey2: :prey2:

[ballaratdragons]

lol!!!!

[cahullian]

Ken does that mean I can point my laser light in peoples' eyes??

Not too many sleeps to go now

[ballaratdragons]

Only pilots eyes! and we don't get many planes over here which will be a nice change for some people.

Yep, time is so close I'm packing the car already!!! :rofl:

[Dave47tuc]

Good work Geoff :D & Ken, John, oh everyone :thumbsup:

For those who want to read more on Star Party Etiquette have a look here
http://www.amateurastronomy.com/etiquette.html

Glad Geoff through mine in the bin I wanted to charge $10 a look :poke:

Only joshing :rofl:

Will be great. Hope the weather is kind :prey:

[ballaratdragons]

That's the original list but we didn't want to burden everyone with 5 hours of reading on entry :rofl:

Dave, you forgot to thank yourself!!!

People, you would be amazed at the amount of work Dave47Tuc is doing behind the scenes to help with the Star Camp.

Dave Pretorius too!! and Geoff 'Starkler'!

This event will be a success even if it rains purely because of the work all these people are putting into it to help John and I out!

Pat yourselves on the back guys. :thumbsup:

[Dave47tuc]

Thanks Ken :thumbsup:

[Starkler]

No problem there. Dave and I came up with the guidelines, and Ken added to it and made some corrections. Its all mostly ripped from other peoples ideas anyway :)

[xstream]

My sentiments aswell guys, it cetainly makes life easier.

We're definately going to have a great time.

[ballaratdragons]

Bird from Canberra is our latest victim . . er . um . . attendee at the Star Camp. Onya Bird, 3 nights :thumbsup:

IceInSpace 2005 Snake Valley
STAR CAMP
EVENTS PROGRAM

Sponsored by Australian Sky & Telescope Magazine

All events listed are optional

Friday 28th Oct
5pm - Camp Open
5 - 7pm - Meet & Greet get together
7pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Saturday 29th Oct
Free Time
9am - 3pm - 'Rally in the Valley'
3pm - Beginners Workshop (Mirror cleaning, collimation)
4 - 5pm - BUY/SWAP/SELL & Vendors stalls
5pm - 'Deep Sky Observing' - David Girling
7 - 8pm - Ballarat Historic Observatory (leaving Camp at 6:30pm)
8:30pm - Viewing at Camp
___________________________________ ____________________

Sunday 30th Oct
Free Time
4pm - 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian' - Peter Read
5:30pm - Group Photo being taken (please attend)
6pm - 'SPIT ROAST FEAST' - $10 per head
7pm - 'Leonids - a night to remember' - David Girling
8pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Monday 31st Oct
Free Time
2pm - Historic Gold Diggings & Trestle Bridge
5pm - 'Venus Transit' & Video Footage - David Girling
7pm - Raffle Draws & Competition Awards
7:30pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Tuesday 1st Nov
Final get-together & Farewells
1pm - Camp Closed
___________________________________ ____________________
Printable version of program at bottom of this post

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
ONLY 4 WEEKS TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights
*Peters friends x 3 nights
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Bird x 3 nights
*Daniel Granieri x 2 nights

TOTAL SO FAR - approx 31 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night
Dave (Snake Valley local)

Number of attendees Total: approx 41

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (5 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: See Events Program at top of this post
*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory etc.
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[davidpretorius]

nice catch of bird Ken,

will he be on display?

please let him out of the cage at night for saturn and mars imaging!!

[ballaratdragons]

At the Sunday night Feast we will be giving him only seed, and maybe a cracker or two :thumbsup:

[davidpretorius]

yes, he might get a bit chirpy!

[davidpretorius]

work on rumples, he has already said no to me, and he has been viewing this thread for 5 minutes.

imagine that if rumples can come, those legends of planet imaging all in one place.

I get to ask first autograph!


what about all those planet groupies, how can they handle the fame????

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Dave, it would be fantastic if Paul Rumply could make it. I wish more people could make it to the events he organises too.

He has a knack with a camera that's for sure!

Rumples, please come on over, it's only about a 6 hour drive from your place.
If you leave at 11am you will be here in time for the Camp to open at 5pm. :thumbsup:

[rumples riot]

Sorry David, just got to this part of the thread and had a little chuckle. Have arranged to go to the Flinder for that Weekend. Was almost thinking maybe I could cancel, but I promised my good mates that we would go. I would like to go there to your camp, but maybe next year.

"Work on rumples" Rofl, lol.

Thanks for the flattery, made my night.

[rumples riot]

Ken I am really flattered. Let me see what can be done. No promises.

[ballaratdragons]

Paul, bring your mates too. Just tell them you got lost on the way to Flinders and accidentally found a Star Camp.

[davidpretorius]

ken, oh grand master,


i have failed in my task to bring the great rumpless planetus from afar. i ask great one, that you let me take my life in shame.

little grass hopper requests that you let me throw myself under my dob buggy!

off to that great warrior planetus in the sky!

[davidpretorius]

psssst ken, we might have snagged him.

flattery worked well and my death by samauri sword should clinch it.


ssshhh he is coming back, must play dead!!!!

[ballaratdragons]

Just hold that thought Dave. Paul may come yet, he just doesn't want to let down his mates.

He has to work out a way to tell them he forgot that he had already booked in to the Camp months ago and accidentally mixed the dates up and that we were counting on him turning up as he will be teaching astrophotography. :D

But keep the Dob buggy warmed up just in case :thumbsup:

[rumples riot]

Funny, the guys that I am going with are members of this site. The trouble is that I want to photograph the wildflowers in the landscape in the Flinders. Best at this time of year and I would have to wait another 12 months for the opportunity. Aside from that the seeing up there is very good I am told and it is pitch black. The rules on light have me a little spooked ( while I totally understand) as I use my laptop quite a lot during imaging and can't really use red cellophane when imaging Mars or Saturn. Beside I am not sure if the guys had considered going to this camp, but I will make a few calls and see what the consenus is. Like I said no promises. Let me think on it. I will let you know in a fews days what my decision is.

Paul

[ballaratdragons]

That's OK Paul. See how you go. Torn between 2 hobbies gets difficult!

[davidpretorius]

i am bringing my laptop, with a little program that turns everything red, but an idea:

laptops up one end and those without laptops up the other.

oops, i forgot, i am meant to be playing dead

[ballaratdragons]

NEWS FLASH!

I forgot to mention it last week!! :doh:

All attendees booking into accommodation at the Camp are in the draw for the Door Prize! (family members included) :cool: courtesy of Australian Sky & Telescope.

So far that's about 31 entries. :thumbsup:

Also, don't forget about the Awards: 'Best Home-made Astronomy Accessory' and the 'Erwin van der Velden' Award for 'Astrophotography'.

[toetoe]

Thats great Ken, 31, is that a updated number for the total??

[ballaratdragons]

Here is the Current update Peter.

Bird from Canberra is our latest victim . . er . um . . attendee at the Star Camp. Onya Bird, 3 nights :thumbsup:

Don't forget to bring your goodies & cash for the BUY/SWAP/SELL

IceInSpace 2005 Snake Valley
STAR CAMP
EVENTS PROGRAM

Sponsored by Australian Sky & Telescope Magazine

All events listed are optional

Friday 28th Oct
5pm - Camp Open
5 - 7pm - Meet & Greet get together
7pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Saturday 29th Oct
Free Time
9am - 3pm - 'Rally in the Valley'
3pm - Beginners Workshop (Mirror cleaning, collimation)
4 - 5pm - BUY/SWAP/SELL & Vendors stalls
5pm - 'Deep Sky Observing' - David Girling
7 - 8pm - Ballarat Historic Observatory (leaving Camp at 6:30pm)
8:30pm - Viewing at Camp
___________________________________ ____________________

Sunday 30th Oct
Free Time
4pm - 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian' - Peter Read
5:30pm - Group Photo being taken (please attend)
6pm - 'SPIT ROAST FEAST' - $10 per head
7pm - 'Leonids - a night to remember' - David Girling
8pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Monday 31st Oct
Free Time
2pm - Historic Gold Diggings & Trestle Bridge
5pm - 'Venus Transit' & Video Footage - David Girling
7pm - Raffle Draws & Competition Awards
7:30pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Tuesday 1st Nov
Final get-together & Farewells
1pm - Camp Closed
___________________________________ ____________________
Printable version of program at bottom of this post

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
ONLY 2 1/2 WEEKS TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles: x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights - Paid
*Graham: x 3 nights - Paid
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Bird x 3 nights
*Daniel Granieri x 2 nights

TOTAL ON-SITE SO FAR - approx 31 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night
Dave (Snake Valley local)

Current Number of attendees Total: approx 41

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (5 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: See Events Program at top of this post
*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Door Prize for those booking on-site
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[iceman]

Ken, out of the 40ish people attending, do you know how many actual telescopes will be there? ie: how many people are bringing their scopes?

[ballaratdragons]

Mike,

after talking to attendees, whether by phone, email or PM, almost everyone is bringing their scope. Either their main scope or their 2ndry 'travel' scope, and by what I know some are bring 2! So there will be plenty of viewing going on.

[ballaratdragons]

UPDATE: 17-10-05

IceInSpace 2005 Snake Valley
STAR CAMP


Sponsored by SKY:Lab Astronomy Software
Binocular & Telescope Shop (BINTEL)
'Australian Sky & Telescope' Magazine

More Sponsors have come on board!

Don't forget to bring your goodies & cash for the BUY/SWAP/SELL

Lucky Door Prize: 1 Year Subscription to Australian Sky & Telescope Magazine (Value: $82.50)

Raffles Prizes are: SKY:Lab Astronomy Software - Star Atlas: Pro (Value: $129), a TELRAD from BINTEL (Value: $82.50) and a 'You Choose' catalogue raffle from 'Australian Sky & Telescope' magazine.

I have been informed by the President of the Ballarat Astronomical Society that they have reduced the $8.50 fee to $3 per person for our Star Camp group for the visit to the Historic Obsevatory on Saturday evening to see the Historic 'Made on Site' Telescopes.



STAR CAMP
EVENTS PROGRAM

All events listed are optional

Friday 28th Oct
5pm - Camp Open
5 - 7pm - Meet & Greet get together
7pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Saturday 29th Oct
Free Time
9am - 3pm - 'Rally in the Valley'
3pm - Beginners Workshop (Mirror cleaning, collimation)
4 - 5pm - BUY/SWAP/SELL & Vendors stalls
5pm - 'Deep Sky Observing' - David Girling
7 - 8pm - Ballarat Historic Observatory $3 p.p. (leaving Camp at 6:30pm)
8:30pm - Viewing at Camp
___________________________________ ____________________

Sunday 30th Oct
Free Time
4pm - 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian' - Peter Read
5:30pm - Group Photo being taken (please attend)
6pm - 'SPIT ROAST FEAST' - $10 per head
7pm - 'Leonids - a night to remember' - David Girling
8pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Monday 31st Oct
Free Time
2pm - Historic Gold Diggings & Trestle Bridge
5pm - 'Venus Transit' & Video Footage - David Girling
7pm - Raffle Draws & Competition Awards
7:30pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Tuesday 1st Nov
Final get-together & Farewells
1pm - Camp Closed
___________________________________ ____________________
Printable version of program at bottom of this post

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
ONLY 2 1/2 WEEKS TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles: x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights - Paid
*Graham: x 3 nights - Paid
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Bird x 3 nights
*Daniel Granieri x 2 nights

TOTAL ON-SITE SO FAR - approx 31 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night
Dave (Snake Valley local)

Current Number of attendees Total: approx 41

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (5 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: See Events Program at top of this post
*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Door Prize for those booking on-site
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[bird]

I'll be packing my 10" scope and all the computer gear, including laptop. I'm not too worried about light, I have the background set to black and my terminal windows are green on black :-)

Mars might be a bit of a hard target, but I'll give it a go. My main interest will probably be Saturn, it should be transiting at a nice time for imaging.

Bird

[ballaratdragons]

Bird,

Don't win all the Awards. Let someone else win at least one of them. :lol:

[bird]

I'm not above a bit of bribery...mmm, beer...

[ballaratdragons]

UPDATE: 19-10-05

IceInSpace 2005 Snake Valley
STAR CAMP


Sponsored by SKY:Lab Astronomy Software
Binocular & Telescope Shop (BINTEL)
'Australian Sky & Telescope' Magazine
MyAstroShop



Our newest Sponsor is MyAstroShop

Don't forget to bring your goodies & cash for the BUY/SWAP/SELL

During the Camp there will be a display in the Rec Room of: Astrophotography, New Products by Vendors and any interesting Astro or Space items you wish to display.

Astrophotography Competiton Prizes: Certificates for seperate sections and best overall recieves the 'Erwin van der Velden Award' and a pair of Bushnell 10x50 Binoculars from MyAstroShop (Value: $110)

Lucky Door Prize: 1 Year Subscription to Australian Sky & Telescope Magazine (Value: $82.50)

Raffles Prizes: SKY:Lab Astronomy Software - Star Atlas: Pro (Value: $129), a TELRAD from BINTEL (Value: $82.50) and a 'You Choose' catalogue raffle from 'Australian Sky & Telescope' magazine.

I have been informed by the President of the Ballarat Astronomical Society that they have reduced the $8.50 fee to $3 per person for our IIS Star Camp group for the visit to the Historic Obsevatory on Saturday evening to see the Historic 'Made on Site' Telescopes.



STAR CAMP
EVENTS PROGRAM

All events listed are optional



Friday 28th Oct
5pm - Camp Open
5 - 7pm - Meet & Greet get together
7pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Saturday 29th Oct
Free Time
9am - 3pm - 'Rally in the Valley'
3pm - Beginners Workshop (Mirror cleaning, collimation)
4 - 5pm - BUY/SWAP/SELL & Vendors stalls
5pm - 'Deep Sky Observing' - David Girling
7 - 8pm - Ballarat Historic Observatory $3 p.p. (leaving Camp at 6:30pm)
8:30pm - Viewing at Camp
___________________________________ ____________________

Sunday 30th Oct
Free Time
4pm - 'Sequence of building an Obsession Dobsonian' - Peter Read
5:30pm - Group Photo being taken (please attend)
6pm - 'SPIT ROAST FEAST' - $10 per head
7pm - 'Leonids - a night to remember' - David Girling
8pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Monday 31st Oct
Free Time
2pm - Historic Gold Diggings & Trestle Bridge
5pm - 'Venus Transit' & Video Footage - David Girling
7pm - Raffle Draws & Competition Awards
7:30pm - Viewing
___________________________________ ____________________

Tuesday 1st Nov
Final get-together & Farewells
1pm - Camp Closed
___________________________________ ____________________
Printable version of program at bottom of this post

ATTENTION ALL NEW MEMBERS and old ones AND VISITORS TO THIS SITE:
ONLY 8 DAYS TO GO FOLKS, GRAB YOUR ACCOMMODATION NOW OR START PACKING THE TENT AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING!!!

Remember the Date: 28th October - 1st November

Wind forward your Star Map programs and have a look at the incredible list of objects for viewing during the Camp. Mars will be at full opposition!


So far those that have booked 'on-site' are:

*Ken: (ballaratdragons) x 4 nights - Paid
*John and Anna: (xstream) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave: (Dave47Tuc) x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave's friend x 4 nights - Paid
*Darren & Family: (wombat_in_space) x 4 nights
*Trevor: (OneOfOne) and group x 4 nights - Paid
*Dave P: (davidpretorius) and daughter x 4 nights - Paid
*Steve: (Janoskiss) x 4 nights - Paid
*Geoff: (starkler) x 4 nights - Paid
*Gazza and Family: (cahullian) x 4 nights - Paid
*Peter Read: x 4 nights - Paid
*Sharon, Michael & Giles: x 3 nights - Paid
*Peter: (toetoe) x 3 nights - Paid
*Graham: x 3 nights - Paid
*Stuart & Wife: (Stu) x 2 nights poss 3 - Paid
*Bird x 3 nights
*Daniel Granieri x 2 nights

TOTAL ON-SITE SO FAR - approx 31 on-site

Approx 20 of those for all 4 nights!

Those attending but staying off-site:

Mike and Family (iceman) x 4 nights
Robert (Grampian Stars) x 1 night
Mick Pinner & Wife x 1 night
Tony (Striker) possibly 1 night
Dave (Snake Valley local)

Current Number of attendees Total: approx 41

The onsite Accommodation Still available:

1 x 8 bed bunkhouse
1 x shared 8 bed bunkhouse (5 empty bunks)
and lots of camping space for tents and caravans.

For off-site accommodation only 20 minutes away from the Camp try here: http://www.ballarat.com/peppinella.htm

EVENTS: See Events Program at top of this post
*Saturday evening visit to Historic Ballarat Observatory
*Visit ruins of Gold digging and Processing site
*Visit to Historic Wooden Trestle Bridge
*Beginners Workshop (collimating, mirror-cleaning, Star-map reading, easy-find objects)
*Speaker 'David Girling' on 3 Astronomy subjects
*Speaker 'Peter Read' on building an Obsession Truss Dobsonian
*Competitions for best Astrophoto, best home-made Astro accessory
*Raffles for Astro Prizes
*Door Prize for those booking on-site
*Buy/Swap/Sell late Saturday afternoon
*Sunday evening 'Spit Roast Feast' (small charge)

Lake on-site, so bring your canoes, fishing gear etc.

A fully equipped kitchen, Meeting Room, Recreation Room (billiards & table tennis).
The Meeting room is available for DVD/Videos (bring some along to show).

Entry is free for on-site and off-site guests.


ACCOMMODATION FEES ON-SITE (bunkhouse per person or camp-site per person)

2 nights - $26.40
3 nights - $39.60
4 nights - $52.80
Children Under 4 - Free

If you are staying for 2 or 3 nights but decide to stay longer just let us know at the Camp.

A 'Gold Coin' donation box will be available for donations towards the running of the IceInSpace website.

*This information will be updated regularly.

DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS MEMORABLE OCCASION!

[rumples riot]

Sorry guys we won't be attending, we're off to the Flinders. I do hope you have clear skies, long term forecast is not good for mid next week, but as you know things change in a week or so. Have great time.

[ballaratdragons]

Have an enjoyable time Paul.

Weather looks like the bad spell is only a band coming through during the week and gone by Thursday or Friday!

The latest UPDATE is only 2 posts back!

[asimov]

I may be attending after all. So a hesitant 'maybe' from me. Just lil' ol' me will be turning up if I pull it off. No accomodation necessary....(I'll chuck the tent in just in case though, sleeping in one's car gets old) If I decide I wanna tent site Ken, can I just pay on the spot....providing there is room left of course ?

The refractor will turn up with me.

[ballaratdragons]

Asicamper, Just turn up mate! Bring your tent or jump in a bunkhouse with someone.

It would be great to have you along.

[davidpretorius]

work with him slowly ken, keep the line taut & let him tire. If he runs, let him run, as long as you don't get to the end of the spool.

no sudden movements, just reel him in slow steady movements.

remember the big fish i lost just recently, species rumpilous riotous, i hooked him, but was too quick and eager to land him, and he snapped the line and headed towards flinders.

Now this species, asimotis thundercloudus, is very finnicky, depends on the weather. He doesn't usually come out in the day, but your choice of bait, the little toucamus interuptus has worked on drawing him out!

be very very careful with this one ken.....slowly......steady......kee p calm...............breathe.......

[ballaratdragons]

:lol2:

[asimov]

"SNAP"!!.......& the line breaks!!....NOOOOO! (just kidding) Thanks Dave/Ken. I'll do my best to get there. Long drive though!!

[Dave47tuc]

I for one would be very keen to see you turn up with the 6" scope. ;)

I love big refractors.(and small ones two)

[ballaratdragons]

Asitraveller, won't big blue fit in the car?

[asimov]

Nope.The OTA is 300mm longer than the back seat. Roof-rack or trailer would be the only way. (I own neither)....Not to worry. Thanks for returning my PM. Got some decent maps so I should be ok. As far as finding the actual camp when I hit Ballarat, I'll just ask someone in town. I can smell telescopes 10 miles away anyway so I'll find it!

There'll be heaps of 12" scopes to look thru no doubt? & I'm eager to show you guys what a 6" achromatic can do. :)

[ballaratdragons]

AsiJohn,

Because of the direction you will be coming from (S.A.) if you go all the way to Ballarat and then to the Camp you will be adding about 1 hour to the trip.

Depending on which Highway you come on you should turn off to Snake Valley at Linton or Beaufort.

If you use the Glenelg Hwy: turn-off at Linton and the Camp is only 4 minutes from the turn-off!

If you use the Western Hwy: the turn-off is about 2k after Beaufort. Follow that road all the way to Snake Valley (approx 15 mins).

Both turn-offs are clearly marked with big signs.

I hope you make it over as it would be great to see you before you head off to live in America. :thumbsup:

[asimov]

Damn circumstances keep changing here...(nothing new about that!) I have a job interview in the pipe-line, & I have no doubt it's gonna take place on one of the star-camp dates! (murphy's law)....A careful look at the car today tell's me it's touch & go weather it gets there & back in one piece.....(without spending money on it before I go I mean.) So then I thought about throwing myself on the bus, & now you tell me starcamp is nowhere near Ballarat?....Just looking into timetables as I type this.

Signed: (asi-annoyed-amov) :confuse3: :sad:

[davidpretorius]

i will have car or pick you up from ballarat if needs be.

that will be the least of your troubles!

[ballaratdragons]

Asi-annoyed, Ballarat is only 20 mins away but if you were driving you would turn of way before.

Yep, plenty of us to pick you up from Ballarat if you catch a bus!

[asimov]

Hi Ken. The plan is: coming in on the western Highway. The turn off to snake valley is just after Beaufort, yep. So the sign actually says 'snake valley'? If that's the case I can't go wrong then hey?

BTW the bus timetables don't coincide too well with camp times so I'll take the chance & drive if I come.

[ballaratdragons]

Cool John Asi-camper!!!!

Yep, about 2k after Beaufort is one of those big green direction signs "Snake Valley".
Turn right. Follow for about 15 mins and you will come to Carnham. You will see another big green sign saying "Snake Valley". Turn right again and go about 2k. Then you are in Snake Valley.

You will see the General Store, go straight past it for about another 2.5k and you will be at the Camp!!!!!!

WARNING: If you are reading this and you are not 'Asimov', 'Grampian Stars' or someone coming from the general direction of South Australia, do not follow these directions! Please use the Map link in the thread 'Last Call for Star Camp'

[Stu]

Ken you should change the events program to include a car fixing session.

:bashcomp: :work: :tasdevil: :bashcomp: :bashcomp:

[ballaratdragons]

LOL! Can do Stu. I'll bring my tools!!

[ballaratdragons]

p.s. All those coming, don't look at my house as you drive through Snake Valley as I went to mow the lawn today and the mower broke down. Then I continued with the brushcutter and it broke down!
If I can't get them running in the next few days my place will be hidden in long grass!!

Just blink as you go through town and I won't be embarrased. :P

[janoskiss]

Would you like me to bring my scythe, Ken?

[ballaratdragons]

Your not the Grim Reaper are you Steve? :scared:

[janoskiss]

No, at least I don't think I am. :) But seriously I am happy to bring along the scythe if you can find a handle for it. Guaranteed to never break down. :D I bought it in Transylvania last year, not that far from the place I took the pic I posted in the October photo challenge thread. The scythe is still the most commonly used tool for cutting grass there. And it is very effective in skilled hands.

[ballaratdragons]

Nah, it's OK. If I can't get the mower and Brushcutter going I'll just tie up some sheep in the front yard after Camp and have some free-range sheep in the backyard. That'll fix it.

Pretty handy when I can go out in the paddock and grap a 4 legged mower! :lol:

[OneOfOne]

I am looking forward to the camp this weekend, but....what has the weather been like lately? I live in Melbourne and it has been pretty cloudy lately to say the least. The prediction up to the weekend here is basically more of the same. Has it been relatively clear or just a dead loss as well? Will need to put a sponge at the bottom of the scope to absorb the "condensation" or will a couple of drain holes be enough!...hehehe!

[davidpretorius]

have faith all ye unbelievers!!
kenneth hath consulted with the great oracle, the great dobber in thy sky.
he hath informed grand poobah kenneth that thy sky will twinkle with unholy beauty and magnificence.
thy sacrificial burning of the "works of satan", eq mount and sct hath pleased thy god!

disclaimer:
If thy kenneth doth not deliver said perfect conditions, thy may sacrifice him unto me!!!

[toetoe]

No new Astro gear to be bought this week from anyone and the weather should be good. :D

[Starkler]

Would people be averse to on the first night wearing a big sticky label on their chest with their forum handle and christian name on it so we can all know who we are ?

[davidpretorius]

good idea, want me to bring the labels and a big black texta???

[Starkler]

Deserves a new thread and a poll me thinks .

[ballaratdragons]

See new thread called "Snake Valley Weather Check"

Looking good.

[janoskiss]

I was just told that I will have to stay home and babysit for most of the Camp, but I might be okay to leave for one night. I told them about Star Camp 2+ months ago! Murder is still illegal, right?

[rumples riot]

Last time I checked. I can check again if you like?

[davidpretorius]

Bring em along Steve!!!

[janoskiss]

Can't do that, Davo, but I am working on a solution. :prey:

:prey2: :ship1:

[xstream]

Well the car is now packed ready to go first thing in the morning.
It's amazing how much of that CR word you accumulate I drive an Explorer and I still nearly needed to use a trailer. How much does a women need for 5 days sheesh! :help3:

See you all there.

[ballaratdragons]

See you tomorrow John & Anna!

[davidpretorius]

anna obviously is not at work and can't see what you just wrote!!!!

you guys drive safe. I bundle up my three girls on the plane in the morning and leave on the boat tomorrow night

[ballaratdragons]

Have a good trip everyone and arrive safe! Close now!!!!!!

[h0ughy]

Yes it is close. Ken you and the others who have helped get this going have done a great job. Make sure the all together photo is a good one!

Clear skies fellas and Gals!

[ballaratdragons]

Houghy, if the weather turns bad we'll take lots and lots of 'all together' shots!

Pic 1: here is all of us watching DVD's.

Pic 2: here is all of us standing around talking (yelling coz of the noise of the rain)

Pic 3: here is all of us changing the buckets that catch the water pouring in through the roof

Pic 4: here is all of us taking photos of all of us

Pic 5: here is all of us hanging up our clothes to dry inside

Pic 6: here is all of us standing in the buiding that the lightning hit

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[h0ughy]

Nice to see the positive side of life Ken :scared: :wink2:

With mars at opposition on the 30th, it will be a site to behold (Mike that is, :wink2: kicking someone off a guided scope to image it)

[davidpretorius]

i like that houghy!!!

[asimov]

:thumbsup: @ Ken.

[bird]

Starting to pack now... leaving Canberra at lunchtime tomorrow to drive partway, should get to the campsite easily by opening time on Friday.

Just keep praying for clear weather...

Bird

[ballaratdragons]

Have a great trip Bird and see you when you get here!

Are you bringing any pics for the display?

[bird]

Umm, no - I didn't think about that. The only pics I have are elsewhere at the moment (at Sydney Observatory? maybe...along with some others from the Astrophotography comp in Parkes a couple of months ago as part of a travelling display).

Bird

[ballaratdragons]

:sad:

[Dave47tuc]

To ALL :) Going to the Star camp.
Please take care on the roads, sky or sea :P

Have a safe trip, don't drive :zzz2:

See everyone Friday. ;)

[asimov]

You guys are killing me...

[Wombat_In_Space]

Well the cars serviced, trailers checked :thumbsup:and the packing begins tomorrow night. :jump2:

:driving:Will see everyone there friday night.:)

[ballaratdragons]

Sure will Darren ;)

[cahullian]

we are leaving midnight tonight so I hope to get a few hours zzzzz befor I leave.
looking forward to seeing you all there. That is of course if they dont arrest me trying to smuggle my laser pointer on the plane.

Gazz

[[1ponders]]

You guys have a fantastic time and take it really easy getting there and back. We want to hear everyones perspective on the events. Oh and lots and lots of piccies. With names!

[rumples riot]

Yeah best of luck for the weekend. We leave for the Flinders at 6.30am Tomorrow. Clear skies to all.

[Dave47tuc]

Thanks Paul & Paul(RR) Hope you get clear skies also.

Sure hope we do. Sunday & Monday nights are looking the best at the Moment. Maybe tomorrow also. :)

[ballaratdragons]

John (xstream) & Anna (Anna) arrived at my place today safe & well. :thumbsup: Had a quick trip to the Camp and all is well! :)

Ready for action tomorrow ;)

[janoskiss]

Going to get in some pre-camp viewing tonight? Should be a clear night...

[rumples riot]

You must be excited Ken, this is the culmination of many months of planning and organising. Bet you can't wait to start tomorrow?

[rumples riot]

Hey Steve, Weather here has completely fined up, no clouds here and looks like the skies will be clear tonight. Pity I have packed my scope ready for the trip tomorrow. Knowing my luck it will be the only clear night for the next 5 days.

[ballaratdragons]

Paul, at first I didn't know what I was in for. It has taken a lot of preparation to get it to this point. Even the unusual things went well (Powercor cutting power to the Public security lighting, CFA on notice not to burn-off during Camp, Town residents not using un-necessary outdoor lighting etc)

But all is ready now!

And yes, very excited!!!!

[rumples riot]

I can see. Even it if it should rain all weekend, the entertainment and company should be just great.

[hogly52]

All the best for a great week-end guys! I look forward to reading the reports.

Cheers :drink:

[acropolite]

Wish I was there.....:sad: have fun...:D