? Camping W'end for New Moon Jan 15th 2010

[Arthur Alchin]

EOI: maybe a camping weekend for the first New Moon of 2010?? The new Moon in January is Friday the 15th.

Apparently Arkaroola has been cancelled so possibly someone could suggest somewhere in central NSW (eg Peak Hill, Cobar etc) that would be cheap, central to all (Vic, Qld and East Coast and SA), Dark skies and possibly on a river. Maybe a farm or something: Any suggestions??

[jakob]

River (with Water) would be a must that time of year.
I'd be interested.

Hope our country members can dig something up!

[Allan_L]

Arthur, The place I suggested in your other thread (in General Chat http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=49343) is still a goer. Did you forget?
Between Dunedoo and Dubbo
I was just waiting to after IISAC to put it out to general invitation.
I have approval to for a small group of about 10.
Possible 4 days Thurs - Sunday (14-17).
Octane has already confirmed his spot.
I thought you had too.

GB Astro, Inmykombie, Deeno, Jakob, Rod are also interested I think.

If anyone else is interested Please let me know. GTB ?:poke:
Spots are limited, references may be required.
I have posted a panorama of the location.
No pool, but power water shelter and air con available.
There are No Bunks. So, its Camping or BYO bed. (I will be taking my camper)
And the price is right. ;)
More later.

[Arthur Alchin]

sorry allan, must have overlooked your post, would love to attend if u can put my name down. Will talk to u at lostock about it

[Inmykombi]

Anywhere withing a few hours is OK by me.
Put me down for all nights.

Lostock, Ilford, Dunedoo....anywhere.....

[Octane]

Allan,

That's a double confirmation from me. :)

Thank you!

Regards,
Humayun

[Omaroo]

If you want to use my place, "Omaroo" near Cooma, on the Murrumbidgee River, you're welcome to. :shrug:

No facilities, so you'll need to bring a tent or camper trailer. It's about 20 mins from Cooma towards Adaminaby. A pretty dark sky with cool crisp nights.

[Octane]

Chris,

Up for that, too. :D

Regards,
Humayun

[GTB_an_Owl]

yeh - well ....... i will probably be silly enough for something like that Allan

(as long as i can keep my beer cold) and my scope dry

geoff

[Omaroo]

Any time Humayun. :welcome:

[Octane]

Chris,

Your place looks awesome!

I'll have to come just to photograph that stream at sunrise. Wow!

:envious:

Regards,
Humayun

[Omaroo]

LOL! That "stream" is the mighty Murrumbidgee River! I'm close to the headwaters at Tantangara, so it's not very large yet at this point. With the snow melt it kinda gets going though....

Bring your camera, I do! :)

[Octane]

When are you going to be down there next?

My profuse apologies to the mighty Murrumbidgee! I hope it wasn't offended. LOL!

Regards,
Humayun

[Omaroo]

Maybe in the next two or three weeks? It's just over an hour from you.

[Octane]

Let me know. :)

Regards,
Humayun

[Arthur Alchin]

Your property looks beautiful (being a lover of the land myself). Your offer to use your property for the camp is brilliant, thank you.

I worked in Bega Hospital for some time and travelled through Queanbeyan, Cooma, Nimetabell and down the brown mountain to that area weekly from the central coast and found the drive very easy.

Maybe we could encourage the local boys to participate in that, I have space in my car to take one extra (my boots full of telescope and i tow a trailer of camping gear). I am guessing at a 5 hr run from the Central coast. The sky would be brilliant.

I am sure the extra travelling time would be well paid off by the ultra dark skies

Arthur

[Omaroo]

Cheers Arthur

The area is pretty warm in summer (15th of Jan or so), but the nights do typically cool down. I've seen 40+ degree days that come down to 16 at night. Nice.

If you have 4WD's, we could camp up on top of the hill, which is pretty rocky, but fine for trailers. It's at nearly 950m so the seeing is usually nice. If not, the orchard is the best place. It's away from the river, which is good as the river flats usually have ants everywhere in summer. Can still go paddling though.

Anyway, the offer is there, and at 120 acres there's plenty of room for a few people.

[Arthur Alchin]

A few people (myself included) need to have concrete days so we can arrange rosters/ leave etc, sorry to say: yes this much in advance.

Is it feasible that we plan "going" on the thursday morning (14th) and "breaking camp" on the sunday morning (17th) for the trip home?

That would give us thursday, friday (new moon) and saturday night.

What are your thoughts?

[Omaroo]

Sure! No problems for me. I'm lucky enough to just take time whenever I want it, so if that weekend is good, then we can book it in.

Do you have 4WD's? Not that you'll need them to get to the property, but you will if you want to get around. If not, my Landrover will be there.

By the way - I just wish to make it clear that I did not offer this in order to undermine any other plans or locations, just to offer a choice to you.

Here' where it is on Google Earth:

36° 10' 15.16" S
149° 00' 25.27" E

Here's a zipped Google Earth .kmz locator:

[jakob]

I'm in!
Photos look good and access is no problem.:thumbsup:
Looking forward to it.

Regards J.

[Arthur Alchin]

Hi guys, as the years is swinging to an end, and rapidly i must say, January is going to be upon us before we know it and is probably time to discuss the first New Moon in 2010.

I think i recall that Allan has a venue out between Dunnedoo and Dubbo (if is is still on the cards Allan?) for a long weekend excursion. Does it seem like a goer?? what do we all think?? I believe there is a number restriction, is thast correct???

There is a venue down south near Cooma way but a total driving time (to and return) of 12-14 hrs makes it a bit impracticable to myself

Arthur

[madwayne]

Hi Arthur and All

I am coming in on the end of your post here but somewhere closer to home is a place called Wollondilly River. It is bush camping but it is pretty good and the skies are excellent.

To get to Wollondilly River take the freeway down to Mittagong and go in to town. Follow the old highway through town and stay on it as if you are going to Berrima. The Wombeyan Caves turn off is just after you cross the freeway, turn right. Follow the road to Wombeyan Caves for around 40 minutes. It is dirt for a fair part of the way but you can easily access it with a sedan. Facilities are very basic. I was there last Australia Day long weekend and the river was the bath tub :lol: but there is ice on site. Wombeyan Caves are about a 20 minute drive away if you need some supplies.

The beauty of Wollondilly River is it is about the same driving time from Sydney or Canberra, some of the Canberraites may be interested in going up. Be warned that the road from Canberra to Wollondilly River via Wombeyan Caves is rough as and should be avoided unless you are in a 4wd.

Plenty of beautiful scenery on the drive from Mittagong to Wombeyan Caves, particularly from the lookout just after the limestone cave you drive through.

Wayne

[Wavytone]

Might as well bite the bullet and head for Mt Kaputar, best observing site in NSW apart from Siding Spring:

- Truly spectacular night skies,
- 8 hours from Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra
- There are several observing sites on the peak at 1450m, including one level lava field that resembles concrete, about the size of a soccer field;
- Campsite is in a snowgum forest 10 mins from the observing site, one of the best camping grounds I've used, also some sites are powered for caravans etc;
- Onsite hot showers, some cabins...
- Lots of walks, sights to see, fairly tame wildlife, rock climbing;
- Temperature is lovely on the peak;
- Access for 2WD vehicles, caravans and trailers OK, via sealed road up the mountain.

The only real risk weather-wise is having a cyclone off the east coast around the Qld border, which will pump cloud in over Kaputar. As we're heading for another el-nino summer I'd guess the risk of that is pretty low.

I'll take advance orders for Crepes Kaputar for those interested in culinary fare :)

[Allan_L]

Laheys Creek (near dunedoo) is still a goer.
350 km from Wyong (via Golden Hwy)
340 km from Mangrove Mountain (via Broke)
330 Km from Sydney (via Lithgow)
(I would allow 5 hours)
No actual limit to numbers.
Just limited facilities.
Plenty of room for Camping (my preference)
We will have access to the workers the house. (should be vacant then)
Air conditioning sleeping quarters available if you like the floor (or BYO).
Hot water. (if fixed by then)
Toilet.
Shower.
Electricity.
Fridge.
Stove
Microwave
No mountains.
Few trees.
Length of stay can be as long or as short as we agree.
BE ADVISED:
Random kangaroos emus cows outside of house enclosure.
And there is nothing to do by day.
BUT its aBSOLUTELY FREE of Charge.

Maybe Wavytone's Volcano would be better :question:

[Arthur Alchin]

Hi all,
i know the wollondilly well being an old Goulburnite. And agree it is a great spot (used to swim the wollondilly and shoot in the taralga area.

i agree that mittagong is a quicker closer option but i promised myself some viewing west of the ranges rather than southern highlands/ tablelands this time, (the original intent being arkaroola).

Guess it might be time to get a concensus of opinions from those interested.

arthur

[jakob]

Wollondilly access is rough.
I must say I haven't driven it for years but I don't think it has changed much!

[Allan_L]

It is sure starting to sound like this is the place to be this January.
(the first two quotes are from a thread by Toryglen-boy in General Chat asking The best skies in Oz? .

But is this likely to be crowded out, as it will be school Holidays in January?
Apart from a potential crowd, I think this is sounding exciting!!
Do we need to book?
Is it too LATE to book?

I am still happy to host everyone at Laheys Creek, if that is the concensus.
Maybe, do both!
I think they are in the same general area aren't they?
That should make sure of some good nights.

NEW MOON is Friday 15th January.
I will be looking to stay over three nights - Thurs Fri Sat (leaving Sunday). Is this the same time frame as evryone else?

[theodog]

I could drift down to Dunedoo myself, just to meet up.
Not firm yet though.
:D

[Omaroo]

Oh well - looks like Cooma is too far for you all so I'll withdraw it.

Maybe some other time. :)

[Octane]

Not for me, Chris! :D

Regards,
Humayun

[Omaroo]

I'll be there for a couple of weeks over the break Humayun - so you are perfectly welcome to come down any time you like! You may have to help me to install a couple of piers for us though.... :)


Without going back through the thread, which series of days are we looking at new moon?

[Inmykombi]

Alan L threatened me with medium level violence if I didnt attend ;), so I am in for all nights.:D

I just have to get someone to fill in for me at the SURFCOM radio room for Surflifesaving on the 17th.

If there's nothing to do by day, Arthur will have to bring his piano-accordian along again.

Woooo-hoooo.

geoffro

[Arthur Alchin]

Am going for the whole time

Will bring both button accordions and we could have a duet (both have a common row of C although new one has 2nd row of B instead of G).

Could probably take someone as i will have a free seat in the front. Did Alan say whether there was a swimming hole within driving distance?? and do i need the generator for charging purposes??

Guess same driving rules apply: sit on channel 8 and mag.

[Omaroo]

Humayun - what dates are you thinking of coming down at this stage? I know that you're off from the 24th. I'm looking at arriving mid Friday - the 25th, but understand that this is Christmas. Maybe the following day would be better. Anyway - lemme know :)

[jakob]

Alan,
Have you got the coordinates of the property?
I was looking at Google for Laheys Creek.
There is a road to Laheys Creek from near Gulgong, have you ever traveled this way?
I wonder if it would be suitable for my Camper.

Regards Jakob.

[Allan_L]

The Hut:
32* 9' 45.45" S
149* 15' 43.94" E

Access road is off Laheys creek road

If it is the road I am thinking of, it should be no problem for the camper, although I have not travelled that way myself I believe it is OK for normal vehicles. If you are going via Lithgow it could save about 20 minutes.

[Arthur Alchin]

Hi Alan
for us guys on the coast would it be quicker via denman and sandy hollow??

Are we travelling in a convoy ( it's so good fun :) )

[Octane]

Chris,

I can come Christmas Day. I have nothing on. :)

Regards,
Humayun

[bloodhound31]

Chris!! Chris!! I'm in mate!!! Your place looks awesome and I know what the skies are like down there!!

When when when?

Baz.

[bloodhound31]

I know it's the country mate but you better wear something...at least a loin cloth..:P:lol:

[Allan_L]

yes but isn't that even just before Full Moon ?
Oh well good luck to you.



Yes Arthur, I believe it is quicker from Central Coast through Merriwa. I intend getting there via Broke.
But if you are close to Sydney it is a little quicker via Lithgow I believe.

But I think in January Cold is better, so H and BH are likely to be more comfortable at Chris' cooma mountain resort.:shrug:

And yes "I think we got ourselves a little Convoy" --> I like it too!.

[Omaroo]

Friday the 25th then! :lol:

Barry - you are MORE than welcome!!! Are you mobile with your scope setup?

Cool! A good little party then :thumbsup:

[Omaroo]

Two words Allan: Hydrogen Alpha! :thumbsup:

Besides, the moon sets at 12:53AM, so we have hours 'till dawn after that. :)

It'd be nice to wait until the new moon, but Humayun and I both gave to be back at work 1st week of Jan. Oh well...

[Omaroo]

Eek! :eyepop:

:D

[Inmykombi]

I vote for a convoy.
Its good to keep in touch via Radio.

[Inmykombi]

What do we need to take for this weekend.
Tent I guess, and some water ?

[Allan_L]

The place has a fully functioning house that we can use.
It has water electricity toilet shower refridgerator kitchen stove. Micrwave (I think)

Several bedrooms (4 I think). But no beds.
Airconditioner in 1 of the rooms at least.

You will need to bring similar to what you brought to Lostock I reckon.

Tent, Camper, deck chair, or similar. (The Preferred Option)
or
something to put down on the floor to sleep on if you want to use one of the rooms.

There is tank water there.
Take your own drinking water if you wish.

Bring extension power cords and power boards.

Bring food and drink.
I dont know if they have a BBQ. Probably safer to bring a small one if someone has one. I have a gas stove in my Land cruiser and a portable gas stove. I will take both.

Bring daytime entertainment.
Bring a motorbike if you have one (cant fit mine in but love to borrow someones).
I dont think they have TV or phone.
I dont remember but I think I had no mobile coverage (optus).

anything else?

getting excited now ....:party:

Insect repellant
Sunscreen

[Inmykombi]

Sounds good to me.
I dont have a portable BBQ only a small single burner cooker which will do me OK.
Cant wait to let the fun begin.
Where will we meet to start the journey ? any suggestions ?

[Allan_L]

I reckon, 9:00am at the twin servos as usual. (for 9:30 set off)
Please wait for me this time :):)

Then off up th F3 Freemans waterhole exit;
Cessnock;
Broke
Golden Highway
Merriwa
Dunedoo (Stop at Pie Shop for lunch)
Laheys Creek.
Arrive about 2:00 (depending on comfort stops).

350 km from Wyong (via Golden Hwy)
340 km from Mangrove Mountain (via Broke)
330 Km from Sydney (via Lithgow)

[Inmykombi]

9am at the Twin servo's sounds OK to me.
what about everyone else ? is this OK. ?

[Omaroo]

Barry - are you still looking at coming to Cooma? I should be there XMas eve, so any time after that...

[Inmykombi]

I managed to get someone to fill in for me on the 17th at Surfcom.

All systems go now it seems.

Maybe time for a roll call....:D

[Allan_L]

When:
Thursday 14 January to Sunday 17 January

Where:
Laheys Creek (near Dunedoo)
Co-ordinates
32* 9' 45.45" S
149* 15' 43.94" E

Who:
I will update as confirmations come in

Definites:
Arthur Alchin
Allan_L
Inmykombie
jakob
theodog (+Jules)
GB_Astro
SASUP


Tentatives (yet to confirm):
GTB_an_owl
Rickapoody
GMBfilter
deeno
RB
Octane


Appologies:
Rodstar

[theodog]

OK I'll commit.
I assume its OK to bring the partner and a camper-trailer?

[Allan_L]

Only one toilet/shower.
Hmmm!
Is she open-minded?

And nothing else to do>
Hmmm!
Is she into Astronomy?

OK with me if OK with her.

Camper trailer OK.
ThATS wHAT i'LL BE IN MOST LIKELY TOO.

[Octane]

Hey Allan,

I'm heading down to Cooma for the Christmas period.

This excursion is well into January. Put me down as a tentative. I'll hassle my boss once he gets back from holidays for some time off to see if I can't turn it into a definite. :D

Regards,
Humayun

[theodog]

Jules is used to spending time in a male dominated camp. She comes fishing on remote Namoi River holes in the Piliga scrub. Sounds better than our usual camp loo and shower behind tarps.

Within reason :) she's remarkably tolerant.

She has an interest and plenty of books to read otherwise :thumbsup:

[gb_astro]

Count me as a definite.

Greg.

[Rick Petrie]

Might be a goer yet for me. I might have to earn a few brownie points in the interim.
Is it possible for me to hike the caravan up there?

[Allan_L]

Easy Peasy.

Central Tablelands but very FLAT.

[sasup]

I would be keen and should have the new 12" by then. count me in:thumbsup:

[Allan_L]

Sorry for the late insertion, but it has just been raised.

Rules:
1. Participation is at own risk and no liability is accepted for any personal injury sustained while on this private property.
2. You brake it you pay for it
3. No pets
4. No children (ie under age of 16)
5. Limit water useage to absolute minimum.
6. Bring own drinking water as the tank water is bore water and not recommended for human consumption.
7. No shenanigans.
8. Don't disturb the cattle
9. Don't damage the crops
10. no weapons of mass destruction



For this you get free accomodation, electricity use of amenities and hopefully clear dark skies.

Sounds like a good deal to me.

[Arthur Alchin]

Despite very early warnings and written special requests my boss managed to roster me on an 8 hr shift on the thur and a 12 hrs shift on the Fri.

I have managed to swap the thur without a drama now to go to battle for the Fri: an annual leave day is what i have offered.

Will keep in touch

[Arthur Alchin]

PS new Binos (york) to try with 7.5mm and 40mm eyepieces

[Inmykombi]

You better be able to make it....
What'll we do without the Piano Accoridian there to keep us amused during the day ????

[Arthur Alchin]

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!! Only 13 more sleeps and we are off and running (driving really) to Laheys Creek for the new moon. Thank you to Allan for organising. Yippee

?? UHF channel 8 as usual??
?? Twin servos @ 930-1000 as usual??

Who we going to share the weekend with??

[Inmykombi]

I say twin servos at 9 am....:D as its a bit further than Lostock.

yah-hooooooooo



geoffro

[Rodstar]

hi all,

I may have been in but for the rule about the exclusion of children. For me, such a rule will almost always exclude my participation. :sadeyes:

I gather this rule is imposed by the owner, and of course it is a matter for them to make whatever rules they like, so no gripes, just an unfortunate situation all around.

See you all in February!:thumbsup:

Cheers,

Rod

[gb_astro]

Pity Rod, most of us would have been queuing up to use the reborn MR.

Greg.

[Allan_L]

Agreed, but

Seriously
It is a working farm.
There are obvious safety issues for all of us.
Especially wandering around in pitch black.
And children will be children.

Sorry! Its my fault, for not thinking people may want to bring family.
(Don't remember any at Lostock in April or August.)
But really this is not part of the original deal.
Really Sorry! :(

[Rodstar]

That's fine Allan, the kids would probably be bored rigid anyway!

Greg, we can let the Mary Rose loose at the Pony Club/Gliding Club in February.

[Arthur Alchin]

all we need is some better weather, fingers crossed

[bloodhound31]

Are you still doing something on the 15th? I might be able to come. what's the plan?

Baz.

[Arthur Alchin]

There is a camping, starwatching weekend planned (see Allans entries) for 14-17th jan at laheys creek between dubbo and dunidoo but not sure if anything is happening down south.

[bloodhound31]

Thanks Arthur, but I was looking for something a little more local.

Chris, you around mate?

[Omaroo]

G'Day Barry :)

Well.. we missed the New Year because of the weather, obviously. Would have been great, but that's life!

Unfortunately my little puggie "Chops" goes in for tumor surgery late in the week of the 15th up here in Sydney, so I won't be able to travel anywhere that entire week. :sadeyes:

I will definitely plan another new moon weekend soon though - and both yourself and Humayun are welcome down then. Keep in touch! :thumbsup:

[bloodhound31]

Shall do Chris, I pray Chops comes out on top mate.

Bless ya!

Baz.

[Inmykombi]

Getting closer now.

So is it th Twin Servo's at 8.30-9.00 am Thursday Morn. ?

Geoffro

[Rick Petrie]

Seems I am now a definite after amassing a few brownies.
Planning on being enroute to reinforce the convoy around 8 ish and at servo's by about 9.
Might have an owl in tow, but yet to confirm.
Bring on some clear skies. I am getting sick of all this grey scum overhead.
Cheers Rickapoody.:P

[Allan_L]

.....and what about the rest of us Chris ???

[Allan_L]

Convoy:
Meet Twin Servos 9:00 for 9:30 departure.
UHF:
Channel 8
If non convoy guys are running early, Wait to Meet at Dunedoo PieShop
Important:
Bring ALL Drinking Water
Bring Insect Repellant
Bring Shade

[Omaroo]

Of course Allan! It's just that none of you seemed to indicate that you were interested. You're all welcome, and it really isn't that far to Cooma fellas! :)

[theodog]

Ok, What is the ETA at the Pie Shop?

Also, has anybody given any thought to a day trip to Siding Springs?
160km's up and 160 back.:shrug:
Another shortish trip is to the Dubbo Western Plains Zoo and Dobbo itself.

[Allan_L]

I am thinking about 2:30 at the Pie Shop.
But that could be out by up to an hour.
Is there mobile coverage out there?
Also, what is the water level like out there?, above or below ground?

I thought about a run upto the Warrambungles, glad you put it on the table for discussion. I guess it depends on lots of variables.

[Allan_L]

I was always interested, but I was sort of committed for January new moon with this trip.

But later in year, while still warmish preferrably, I am keen as

[Allan_L]

I am selling my Landcruiser with Trakka Motor Home conversion.
And
The Camper trailer.

This week.

I will be trading it on a more conventional motor home.
But the trade is pitiful so I am open to better offers.

See Non Astronomy Classifieds add

[theodog]

Coverage should be ok at Dunedoo, not sure about site though.


Water level is fine, it gets away quickly in this neck of the woods. If these clear skies keep up, apart from the green & water in creeks, you would never know it has rained. Dams should be close to full.:D

[Arthur Alchin]

I hope pup does alright, I have poodles x2, Sara (the older) had surgery just before Xmas for tumour: grade 2 Mast cell tumour, not a good prognosis hope your outcome is much better, they are part of the family

[Arthur Alchin]

Hey Geoff (inmykombie): are you carrying the Owl with you? If you are just remember if he gets to much you can always hand him over after a while to give you some time out :) hehehehe

[Omaroo]

Thank you Arthur. I hope Sara pulls through OK. It's a scary thing, and you're right, they're family. In my case, the only family, and Chops is only 4 years old.

Positive thoughts...

[astronut]

Our thoughts are with you as well Chris.:):)

[theodog]

Jeeeez...George the Pug and I are thinking of you all. We hope it all turns out OK.

[jakob]

Al,
How are you traveling to Laheys Creek?:question:

I will be comic up from Gulgong, is there anything to look out for to find the Farm? I have the coordinates and from Google I marked a turn-off to the farm. Do you have a name or lot no?
Anyway I will call on ch8 when I get close.

Looking forward to the trip.:D:D:D
See you all, J.

[gb_astro]

I will probably be about 2 or 3 hours behind the CC convoy.
No fun in getting out of Sydney during peak hours.

Greg.

[Allan_L]

Caltex
F3
Freemans waterhole
Cessnock
Broke
Merriwa
Dundedoo (pie shop for lunch)



Coming up the road from Mudgee, there is a signed Left Turn to Laheys Creek. But I haven't been that way. I was not sure of the way from there. (Its a very small sign, and I think its mainly dirt road).

At the expense of 20minutes, better come up through Dunedoo and meet there.

Directions from Dunedoo.
Head towards Dubbo on Golden Highway. travel 20k
(See sign saying turn right toCobbora. Getting close. Dont turn. keep ahead on Golden Hwy. Look for next on left)
Shortly turn off on left Spring Ridge Road. Take it.
After 8.5k, turn left onto Woolandra Private road (probably not signposted) If you get to Fire Brigade you have gone about 1k past Wollandra private road.
The coordinates of this entrance road are approx:
32* 10' 8.52"S
149* 15' 6.42"E
within 500m.
Once you turn left it is about 1.2k up the road.
Then look for a dirt road off to the left up to the hut.
Good Luck.

Or meet me at the pie shop at Dundoo for lunch. nice big parking rest area.

BTW. my new truck does not have CB :sadeyes:

[Arthur Alchin]

Allan, when we get to the Twin servos remind me to give you one of the handhelds for the rest of the trip

[Inmykombi]

Hi Arthur,

Rickapoody offered Mr Owl a seat but has no confirmation as yet.

I will be on my own.

Geoffro.

[Allan_L]

weather predictions are not favourable at this stage.

But here are some shots of the location I took last time (day after SPSP)

They are stitched together to form a 360 degree view,

Just to wet your appetites

Oh and there is my camper I am selling, by sunrise.

[GTB_an_Owl]

update

at this stage the owl is an 80% chance (well certainty) to be tagging along

how many kilo's of stowage was i allowed to bring Ric ?
it won't all fit on your back seat!

oh! - and by the way you lot - Ric and i are going to annoy the crap out of you lot on the two way :P

geoff

[jakob]

Are you going to set-up a stall?:rofl::rofl:

[GTB_an_Owl]

no sorry Jacob - no stall

only pre ordered items will be transported :D

have to make room for the coloured water ;)

geoff

[Allan_L]

Good idea Jakob !! :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Allan_L]

Thats right Geoff.
Bring plenty of coloured drinknig water.
I am planning on taking a keg of it.
Maybe two! ;)

[Rick Petrie]

How many kilo's does a slab weigh?:P
There is a roof rack for you.. ala Chevy Chase's mother in law.:lol::lol:

[Inmykombi]

Getting so excited now people. I may pack all three scopes :P

Should we be able to get ice at Mudgee somewhere to keep the rusty water icy cold ? Or where would be agood place to get ice ?

You-beauty........some time off will be great.

[Allan_L]

Mudgee?
Thats not on the way.:confused2:
Dunedoo probably has ice.

Picking up my new Motorhome tomorrow. :driving:
WooHoo!
Excitement mounting.

Weather please clear :prey2:

[Allan_L]

I am planning on taking the Poker Set.

Who is interested in friedly, Texas No Limit Hold em ?
Between observation sessions of course.
(I am not going to mention that "C" word )

So, I have about $100,000 in casino quality poker chips. That should be enough, right?

I wonder if I can fit in the green felt poker table?

Surely there must be a few Poker fans among us?
... I definitely wont fit the table tennis table in!!!


AND
I hope to get info to you shortly on kitchen facilities there.
Darn this old timers memory thing.

getting close !
As Geoff says WOOO HOOO !!!

[theodog]

Yep, Dunedoo for ice.

$100000 in chips.
Sounds like I need to bring my 6-shooter and plenty of shirts. I haven't played poker since high school.

We should be fully independent when it comes to cooking facilities, etc.

On the weather, although storms are predicted they are often hit and miss with Heavy rain, sometimes hail and wind. They often hit before dark and leave dark clear skies. The seeing can be variable after though.
A reminder of the day temps. Very hot. Remember to pack the 30+ as much as the insect repellant. It can also bring issues for scopes left out under tarps.;)

Packed and ready to go:D.

[Allan_L]

Just confirmed ...

No Fridge
No BBQ
No Microwave.

So ice will be probably necessary for those without portable refrigerators.

Pretty sure there is a stove and kettle and toaster.
And we believe the hot water system has been fixed.
Seems to be that is it.
Obviosly not meant for holidayers.

Never the less ... can't wait.

On the positive, I remember there is a nice big covered veranda down one side. :)

My Mobile Phone: 0412 926 920 please make a note in case.

[Inmykombi]

Thx Allan,
I spoke to Mr Owl oday and he said he is 95 % a goer......

And about the shower, I dont care if its still roken, I will be having cold showers anyway in his heat.

2 more sleeps and then the Convoy begins.

Who has spare hand helds for the folks who dont ?


Geoffro.

[Arthur Alchin]

I have 3 handhelds, a 5w for me of course and 2x 0.7watts I have ear marked one for Allan and the other is spare. Will have them at the twin servos.

I know Jacob has a 5 watt so we should catch him early after we get through Merriwa or slightly beyond.

Gees i need the break

[Allan_L]

Hey Arthur,
How does it feel?
The thread you started 6 months ago (or whatever) in general chat.
Atlast coming together very nicely.

I note... the usual suspects :) :) :)
plus a couple of new faces

I am so looking forwardto this!
BTW: New Truck holds a lot more than the old one :)

I am going to try to buy a decent handheld tomorrow myself.
I have gift vouchers for Dick Smith Electronoics.
I note you have a 5watt for yourself.
Any recommendations?

And Geoff, i agree.
theres nothing like a good convoy.
Maybe THIS TIME you guys will follow me ??? :P

[Arthur Alchin]

I have the GME 6200 H/Held and Jacob has the GME 6100, both 5w but mine has 20 UHF scanner channels which is, i feel a great waste of time.
The cheaper is probably equally as good.

Saying that i don't know where on the coast you can buy GME.

Dick Smith Sells a 5w Uniden which i think is equally as good, juat watch the price. I think they are in the mid $300-400 mark.

Best price usually goes to Andrews Communication in greystaynes (Sydney and they usually supply the hand held Speaker/ mic inthe price (valued about $80-90). a place in victoria road drummoyne called "everything gps" (or close to it) also sells the GME

There are stacks on ebay from H/Kong but question how well they comply to Aussie telecommunication standards.

[gb_astro]

Sorry guys, a few things have conspired to keep me in Sydney so I'm going to have to withdraw from the trip.

Also looking at the weather forecast it looks like you might need at least one sacrificial lamb so might as well start with me.

Hope it goes well,
Greg.

[GTB_an_Owl]

gee Greg - thats a pity :(

an SDM would have been great for the beautiful skys we are going to get - (you should know NOT to look at weather reports)

you can always change your mind you know - i mean it could be raining in Sydney this weekend :P

oh! and by the way - the Owl is now 97% certain of going

geoff

[sasup]

wish I could come but I still am waiting on the truss bars from Telescopes and Astronomy in vic. I am very keen to get out there. I had thought about having some truss bars made here in Sydney but not sure how full on that is. Have fun guys. Hope for clear skies

[sally1jack]

have a great trip guys , can't make it . see you in feb
Phil :thumbsup:

[GTB_an_Owl]

Ric has picked up all my gear - so i guess the owl has no option other than to go :D :D :D :D :D

Alan - is there an IGA or other at dunedoo ?

geoff

[Allan_L]

Thats great news Geoff.
Seems the younger guys are dropping like flies!
Again it will be up to the "usual suspects" to keep the flag flying.
(thats an idea, bring the "horshead" banner for our camp.

Yes, As i recall there is an IGA or equivalent at Dunnedoo.
Just near the famous pie shop.
Can't wait for another steak and kidney specialty
Or their "the works" pie.
mmm!

I just bought myself a GME6100. Thanks for the advice Arthur.
Looks like a very nice piece of work.
Paid a little extra. $324 with bonus speaker mic and 12 volt charging kit.
But there are not many options here in Newcastle.

Pleased to report CPC1100 and BT100 fit nicely into the new van. :rover2:

BTW: For brownie points (and I do owe quite a few now) I will be having breakfast at home. So don't worry if I dont turn up till close to the 9:30 departure time. But don't be leaving without me like last time.
So much to do, so litle time.

[theodog]

Come on, you guys need to get out west a little more. We have to eat too.

If any are considering a day-trip to Coona, it might be worth-while taking a photo of the "Pluto" sign in Merriwa and I think there's a "Neptune" at Dunedoo. You could do the Solar system drive.

[Allan_L]

That will test out the GPS: "Take me to Pluto"! :)

[Allan_L]

Bring swimmers. With a name of Laheys Creek and 8 inches of rain recently, there must be a waterhole somewhere nearby?

DOES Anyone know if Geoff filter is coming?
I thought he said so at Pony Club last week, but checked and have had no official word from him.!?!

[Octane]

Good luck, guys.

I was in, got leave and all, but then something else popped up. Coupled with the forecast, thought it best to cancel all plans.

Having spent almost 4 days for the weather to clear over Christmas up at Braidwood left me demoralised. Don't think I could go through that again!

I've also got an inspection and wedding photos to finish off so should do the right thing and stay home.

All the best!

H

[Rick Petrie]

All packed and ready to hit the frog and toad tomorrow morning.
Will have the Owl in tow so the trip should be quite a hoot!!! :P
See all you 'servo cats' about 9.:thumbsup:

[Inmykombi]

See ya there 'bout 9 ish.

[Arthur Alchin]

That's unfortunate, maybe next time, guessing the weather might be crap, but it will be well over-ridden by the company, a great bunch of people.

Probably something else will be organized soon

[Octane]

Arthur,

Thank you. I'm glad a future trip will be on the cards.

No doubt the company will be great. If anything, would be a great mini break!

Hope you have fun!

H

[Rick Petrie]

Sorry to hear you couldn't make it H, Phil and Greg.:(
We will definitely have to organise another.
Cheers

[Inmykombi]

Yeah H and all the others that cant make the trip.

It would be really great to have quite a few " mini-breaks" this year as we did last year. keep some time up your sleeve.

Bring 'em on.

[Allan_L]

Nearly packed.
Just got to do incidentals, like food and clothes.
Forcast is 4 days of sunshine, once we get over the mountains :)
(assuming Condoblin is accurate)

[Inmykombi]

Same here, almost packed now.
Just the scopes, food and the essential rusty coloured water to go.

weather report sounds great.

[theodog]

See you this arvo at "the doo".
:D

[bones]

G'day all.
I just got back this afternoon (Friday 15th) after 7 nights in Port Macquarie - hence my absence from the threads on IIS and my no show at the PC last weekend and for the camp weekend.
To all who are going, have great time and make the most of the viewing. Conditions thus far are no good here on the coast.
Tony.

[norm]

Have a ball guys and good luck with the weather. Would have loved to come, but gotta pick up the misses and kids this w/end at Gloucester.

Cheers Norm

[Arthur Alchin]

great weekend, hot, windy and cloudy, company great.

Some good viewing periods. nice van Allan. Nice to meet you Geoff and Julie.

[Inmykombi]

I'll second that Arthur.
Great company again. A couple of New Faces....Jeff and Julie.
Sunsets were beautiful.
The beer stayed cold for most of the weekend.
My food lasted as well.
Hot & windy and hi clud most of the time, but the last night was a crakka.
The number of Flies there nearly drove me to the point of madness.......
a few photos of the weekend attached.

1/ Sunset

2/ Cockatoos in late afternoon sun

3/ Afocal image of Southern Cross and surrounds ( 4.5 inch meade and canon compact camera )
Correction....not Afocal of Southern Cross. It was a 10 sec. time exposure with just the camera itself, no telescope.

Thx to all who made it another whorthwhile trip.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Yep - a great four day break

thanks to my driver, Rick, for letting me tag along, and to Allan for organising the trip

thoroughly enjoyable - as are all our group trips

nice to meet Julie and Jeff for the first time

pity about the wind the first two nites - but sat nite made up for it

some great lightning shows on the horizens - but we never got a drop of rain.

to the guy's that beieved the weather reports - - - - - - -STIFF :lol:


geoff

[theodog]

Thanks for a great camp.
Julie and I had a good time with teriffic company.
Although I haven't done visual for a long time, it was great to see so many faint objects through the scopes.
Its a shame the skies wern't the best for the first two nights but some observing was done on each night with the last night hard to beat.
Thanks also for the technical tips such as using a laser collimator.
Well done Allan -master organisor.:thumbsup:

[Rick Petrie]

What a relaxing fun trip we all had to 'Dunedoo Astro Resort'.
The entertainment was first class from day one when Alan took us for a 'Cooks' tour to 'Wherethefukawy'. From then on it was a hoot travelling with Mr Owl as that detour got him going for the rest of the trip.
Great company as always made for plenty of banter.
Weather wasn't too kind to us for the first couple of days as the wind and intermittent cloud, together with all the 'louies' made it a bit uncomfortable.
However on the Saturday night the western sky opened up and presented us with some really tranquil and pristine sky conditions that were quite awesome. Plenty of objects that were crystal clear with spectacular detail.
Well worth the wait I must say.
Included some photos taken with my phone. Not quite as sharp as I would have liked but shows the site with a spectacular sunset witnessed on the Friday night.
Nice to meet Jeff and Julie from Coona. We hope you enjoyed yourselves.
A big thanks to Alan for all the organisation.
Cheers all Rickapoody:thumbsup:

[Rodstar]

Sounds like your persistence paid off, guys. Well done. Glad to hear the skies cooperated for you. A pity "Musca" bothered you so much by day, though!

[Allan_L]

Thankyou to everyone who came to the Dunny Do.

I thought every night was spectacular, although some with interuptions such as wind and occasional cloud.

And, it was especially nice to "not see" any clouds.
It was just that some stars disappeared for short periods.
Freaky.
[No skyglow = no reflection to overhead clouds = black clouds.]

Thanks to all. :thanx:
Especially
Arthur for the original idea (see post 1)
all for stopping me before we got to Windsor on the way up;
all for jump starting the new van (I bought a new battery today guys);
all for helping to guide the new van out of the impossible enclosure without a scratch;
Jakob for the motorhome advice for newbies
Geoffro for waiting to make sure I didn't get lost on the way home
and most importantly, to Arthur; Geoff; Geoffro; Jakob; Rickapoody; Jeff and Jules for the great company and good times.

Already trying to plan a return visit for Winter skies.


Edit addendum:
And as far as Etiquite is concerned, let it be known that only One Keg was consumed.
(the other is safely cooling in my home fridge)

[Octane]

Allan,

I am so happy you guys got good skies, at least for one of the nights. It was pretty crap down here and I didn't think I was going to miss out on much (apart from the company, but, that's a whole different story!).

If you guys work out dates for a winter visit, I will put in for annual leave and make sure I'm there -- rain, hail, or shine. I just had a couple of things come up this time which prevented me from joining you.

All the best.

H

[jakob]

Thanks to all of you fun days I had. :thanx:

For me, Saturday night was the clearest vision I ever experienced with my LB :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

Thanks Allan for making it possible and thanks to everybody else that helped to make this a fun outing.

Hope for more like this to come.

[Inmykombi]

Just a few more pikkies from the weekend away.
Still cant get the smile off my face from Saturday night.
Wide field of Orion with compact digital camera I think it was 10 sec exposure.
Weird rocks on the roadside.
Tin shed that caught my eye.

geoffro.