Snake Valley Astro Camp - November 2010

[ballaratdragons]

The 11th SNAKE VALLEY ASTRONOMY CAMP

5th - 9th NOVEMBER 2010

Watch this thread for upcoming details about the November 2010 SVAA Astronomy Camp at Snake Valley

Bookings can be made now if you know you will be coming :thumbsup:

Copy/paste this booking information into your post:

Name:
How many people:
Number of nights:
Which nights:
Bunkhouse or Camping:
Saturday Night Feast:


*Please note, Bunkhouses CANNOT be booked for only one night only.
We have previously lost bookings due to bunkhouses being used for only one night when people wanted to book them for 3 or 4 nights and couldn't because of the 'one night' stayer booking it first. Exeptions are accepted if you are in a shared bunkhouse with others staying more than one night.
Alternatively, the Campsite is available for one night if that's all you can stay.

*Alcohol is allowed, but 'Drunkeness' will not be tolerated. Offenders will be asked to leave.

Snake Valley Astronomy Camps are fun, low key social events. A white light ban is in force (as expected), but due to the nature of our Camps, imagers and observers are all mixed in together having a great social astronomy experience. Visual observers that may be offended by some stray Laptop light may be affected.

The fee for the Saturday Night Feast goes to the local CFA.

[danielsun]

I know it is still a while away but I will put my hand up and say I'm there.
I will always do whatever it takes to try and not miss these great camps.

Cheers Daniel.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Daniel.

We have a few booked in for November already, so you aren't alone being early
:thumbsup:

[Jen]

:lol::lol::lol: gee we are keen arnt we :rofl:

I havnt caught up on the sleep that i missed out on from the last one yet :rofl:

Hell yeah count me in im coming for sure (if i be good) :D;)

[chrisp9au]

With a bit of luck this won't clash with IISAC in 2010, so count me in! :thumbsup:

Cheers,
Chris

[barx1963]

I believe that IISAC is on 7th - 10th October, 2010

[Moonman]

Hi Ken,

Good to see you ramping up for another camp. Both of us Emiel and myself (Michael) will be there all 4 nights hopefully. Just waiting for some good prices to come up on the Bass Strait Ferry. We will be tenting.

Count us in for the feast.

Clear skies!

[Jen]

Is it November yet :lol::lol::lol:
:P:P:P

[desler]

No Jen, It's toooo cold!


Darren

[Jen]

:screwy: oh bugger i need some more lessons :lol::lol::lol:

[Astrobserver99]

I will be coming...first time for me...is there power in the imaging areas? If not, are generators allowed? I will have a caravan.

[Moonman]

Hi Rob,

Yes there's mains power. All the astrophotographers setup in an area close to the side of the games room where there is an outside power plug. There was a fairly hefty power board with plenty of plugs back in March but I guess if theres a big increase in the numbers wanting power a battery backup wouldn't be a bad idea to have just in case.

Look forward to meeting you there.

Cheers

Michael

[Paddy]

Very, very good Ken. Will be there with bells on and dew heater ramped up!

Name: Patrick Kavanagh
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Friday and Saturday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping (in recently acquired vintage caravan)
Saturday Night Feast: 1

[leon]

Although it was never spoken, or suggested, it is by reading the last posts of this thread of November 2009 my attendance is not welcome. :sadeyes:

Is this right Ken. :shrug:

Anyway I will not be around anyway, as we, Alice and I are moving to different pastures, and going to enjoy Australia ;) ;)

I hope all you guys have a great time, ;) my Star Parties are over. :campfire:

Leon :thumbsup:

[Moonman]

Hi Ken et. al.

Just booked my boat tickets. All thats left is a purchase of a new tent.

Can't wait!

[mill]

Whoohoo the Moonman is ready for Snake Valley :P

Do you come with your own car or do you need someone to pick you up at the terminal??

[mill]

Leon nobody will ever deny you the camp or entrance to it :)
You are most welcome to be there :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Why? Do you have a guilty conscience? :rofl:

You know you are always welcome Leon. :thumbsup:
But as the rule states, it's what goes on later on that is not welcome ;)

You are welcome, drunks are not :)

[ballaratdragons]

SATURDAY AFTERNOON ENTERTAINMENT

We are able to once again enjoy a fantastic performance by

SHANE GILBERT

Shane has agreed to return and perform for us again before the Saturday Night Feast :thumbsup:

[Hagar]

Thats great news Ken, he was bloody brilliant.

[Octane]

Oh, goodness! I will make sure I video him this time, in HD!

H

[ballaratdragons]

Well, H, you better book into the Camp or you won't get to see him :poke:

:rofl:

[danielsun]

Ken, can you please book me in for the 4 nights in a bunkhouse and definitely the Saturday night feast!:thumbsup:
Great news Shane Gilbert is playing again! He's brilliant!!!.:thumbsup:


Cheers Daniel.

[ballaratdragons]

Already done :thumbsup:

[Moonman]

Hi Martin,

I'll have the car with me but thanks for your offer of assistance there. Can't wait to see you capture all those galaxies again.

Hi Ken,

Thought I'd let you know that Emiel and I will be camping for three nights not the four I originally booked in for. Looking forward to the Saturday Night Feast. I hope you and the boys will be entertaining us again.

Cheers

Michael

[ballaratdragons]

No problem Michael :thumbsup:



:eyepop: We have groupies!!!!

Dunno mate, don't want to turn people off :rofl:
We might leave all the entertaining to Shane :lol:

[Octane]

Ken,

I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to make it at this stage, but, when I find out I will let you know.

For now, I'm a tentative camper for all nights, no feast though.

Cheers!

H

[byronpaul]

Ken,

Looking forward to returning to the Nov Camp:

Name: byronpaul (Paul & Lachlan)
How many people: 2
Number of nights: 2 or 3 (hopefully the later)
Which nights: Fri, Sat, Sun if possible (will confirm closer to camp)
Bunkhouse or Camping: Caravan ( .... kids mobile Theatre Room ....)
Saturday Night Feast: Yes - 2 please

Not only looking forward to more dark skies, but also picking up more tips from the experts.

Great that Shane's going to play again ..... he was a highlight last camp!!!!!

Looking forward to catching up with all the familar faces and hopefully a few new ones as well.

[Jen]

:cool::cool::cool:
Its getting closer cant wait
:D

[ballaratdragons]

OK H, let me know when you know :thumbsup:

Yep Paul. Booked in :)

Yes Jen, getting closer :lol:

[desler]

You still have my booking ken?


Darren

[niko]

Yippeeee. I'm definitiely in this year. All nights, all feasting!!!

niko

[erick]

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Piers]

Hi everyone,

Is there any room for a beginner? I promise to annoy you all with lots of questions! :)

[mill]

Hi Piers there is room for everyone :)
Just tell us what your booking is, bunk or tent and what nights and how many and if you want to come to the Saturday night feast.

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Piers, as Martin says:

Name:
How many people:
Number of nights:
Which nights:
Bunkhouse or Camping:
Saturday Night Feast: (Yes or No)

:thumbsup:



Yes Darren, you are booked in mate.



Great Nick, but Camping or Bunkhouse?

[Jen]

:clap::clap: yay its getting closer :D

[desler]

Hey, good stuff Niko!

Be good to catch up, and yes Jen, it is getting closer, but still seems so far away! Is it November yet?


Darren

[Jen]

:D:D:D
I bet that lake is choco-block full now :screwy:
Is there still camping spaces there :lol::lol:

[danielsun]

Jen, heaps of camping space but you may need to bring a snorkel. :lol:

[desler]

Jen in snorkel and flippers, now there's a thought!

[Jen]

:lol::lol::lol: snorkels, flippers and a red torch :rofl:

[ballaratdragons]

Something I always seem to forget to put in the Camp threads :rolleyes:

FEES:
Bunkhouses (per person)
2 nights $40.00
3 nights $60.00
4 nights $80.00

Campsite (per person)
1 night $18.00
2 nights $36.00
3 nights $54.00
4 nights $72.00

Children under 5 y.o. - FREE

The Spectacular 'SATURDAY NIGHT FEAST' will be on again!
Adults -$20.00 - Under 15 yo -$15.00

No need to pay in advance. Payment made on arrival

*Please note, Bunkhouses CANNOT be booked for only one night only.
We have previously lost bookings due to bunkhouses being used for only one night when people wanted to book them for 3 or 4 nights and couldn't because of the 'one night' stayer booking it first. Exceptions are accepted if you are in a shared bunkhouse with others staying more than one night.
Alternatively, the Campsite is available for one night if that's all you can stay.

*Alcohol is allowed, but 'Drunkeness' will not be tolerated. Offenders will be asked to leave.

Thankyou
SVAA

[leon]

Jen in flippers, :eyepop: now that would be sight to behold. ;) :lol: :lol: :lol:

Leon :thumbsup:

[Jen]

:lol::lol: and my jarmies :rofl:

[desler]

Jarmies! You won't need them if your going to wander (swim) around all night!

[Hagar]

Keep them on Jen you'll scare the wildlife, letalone Darren and Peter.

I might bring the Kayak so we can have races on the pond.

[ballaratdragons]

:thumbsup:

[Jen]

:lol::lol::lol:

[Jen]

hey pssst i heard a little rumour that there is going to be a 22inch SDM there :party::party::party:

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Jen :thumbsup:

[Piers]

Name: Piers
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Friday and Saturday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: (Yes or No) Yes!

Looking forward to it :D

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Piers :thumbsup:

[Octane]

Ken,

Did anyone film Shane play last year?

I really, really enjoyed his playing -- it was fabulous.

Not sure if I can make it this year (quite unlikely) but would hope someone films him in HD, and, if he doesn't object, YouTube it. If the same can be done for last year, that'd be awesome.

Cheers.

H

[ballaratdragons]

H,
one of our members did video some of his performance (and me & my boys :lol: ) but she hasn't worked out how to get it from a locked memory in her camera to a disk :sadeyes:

I'll ask her again if she has managed to get it yet :thumbsup:

[Octane]

Thanks, Ken. You're a legend. : )

H

[barx1963]

Name: Malcolm

How many people: 1
How many nights 2
Which nights : Friday and Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping : Bunkhouse
Sat night feast: Yes!!!!

Malcolm

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Malcolm :)

I have put you in the 8 bed bunkhouse with Danielsun :thumbsup:

ALL BUNKHOUSES ARE NOW BOOKED OUT!

LOTS OF CAMPING SPACE STILL AVAILABLE

[ballaratdragons]

After a bit of re-shuffling, there is now 1 bunkhouse still available :thumbsup:

Still lots of camping space too :)

Only 4 weeks to go :hi: :cool:

[niko]

Hey Ken,

I'll be there all nights and looks like I'll be camping! Feast as well,

YAY!!!

thanks Ken

niko

[ballaratdragons]

Excellent Nick :thumbsup:

You were already booked in but now I know you are camping :)

See you soon.

[Big Dave]

How many people: 1
How many nights 2 (or 3)
Which nights : Friday, Saturday & Maybe Sunday
Bunkhouse or camping : Camping
Sat night feast: Yes, They call be BIG Dave:)

[Jen]

:clap::clap: Yay good on ya Dave a Cranny boy hey :thumbsup: We could have some good stories to tell after midnight hehe ;)

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Dave.

You are now booked in :thumbsup:

[erick]

Hope I remembered to book in :question: UPDATE:- Yes, did so elsewhere- phew!

Is it time to publish the list of bookings, Ken?

[Rob_K]

:(

Well, definite now, can't make it this time. Was hoping against hope that I'd have a window but it shut!! Missed BSG, now missing SV, gotta get better organised for next year.

Have a great time all, want to see lots of pics & reports! :thumbsup:

Cheers -

[Jen]

[/COLOR]
[/LEFT]
:lol::lol: im sure we could find room for you Eric :rofl:


Is it November yet ?:D

[Paddy]

I reckon you should just get yourself sponsored by Tasco and become a full time professional amateur astronomer. And get paid by them to go to any star party and promote their telescopes. The Tasco version of the Three Rivers Foundation.:thumbsup:

(acknowledging of course that the 3RF does not sell telescopes but promotes astronomy and doesn't pay people to go to star parties)

[Rob_K]

:lol: The Tasco's just a front so I can go to star parties & look through decent telescopes! ;)

Cheers -

[ballaratdragons]

That's a real bummer, Rob!
Hopefully next time :thumbsup:


Yes Eric, you've been booked in since the last camp :lol:

[alistairsam]

Hi,
I'm a newbie but reading through, this looks very interesting and would love to come.

any pics of the previous years camp, saw the 2008 pics on the svaa site.
Is this only for svaa members?

if not,

How many people: 3
How many nights 1
Which nights : Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping : Camping
Sat night feast: Yes

[mill]

[QUOTE=alistairsam;645872]Hi,
I'm a newbie but reading through, this looks very interesting and would love to come.

any pics of the previous years camp, saw the 2008 pics on the svaa site.
Is this only for svaa members?

It is for everyone :)
And your most :welcome:
March 2010 camp page 6 and onwards.
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=53277&highlight=snake+valley&page=6

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Alistair, the camps are open to anyone.

Not only SVAA memebers, not only IIS members, but anyone.

I have booked you in:
How many people: 3
How many nights 1
Which nights : Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping : Camping
Sat night feast: Yes

See you in a few weeks :thumbsup:

So Far:
Me
Danielsun
Mill
Barry
Angus & Evelyn
Desler
JohnG
Doug (Hagar)
Michael & Emiel
Paddy
Dannat
Erick
chrisp9au
Astrobserver99
Jen
ByronPaul & Lachlan
Nikko
Exfso Peter
Alexch plus 3 others
Piers
CloudyAgain Neale
Magaret & Rodney
barx1963
Big Dave
Alistairsam plus 2 others
Colin
Richardda1st

I work that out to be 36 so far :)

After a personell re-shuffle there are now 2 bunkhouses still available

BOOK NOW BEFORE THEY GO!

:thumbsup:

[mill]

Did you put me in a bunk house with Dart Vader Ken ?? :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[richardda1st]

Book me in please,:D:D:D:D:D:D


How many people: 1
How many nights: 2
Which nights: Friday & Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping: Bunkhouse
Sat night feast: Yes

[ballaratdragons]

:lol: You are in with Darren (Desler) :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

:thumbsup:

Your in Richard :)

[danielsun]

Is Dave (47 Tuc) still coming?

[desler]

Dart Vader?

Wait till I get my light sabre onto ya!

It's alright Marty, I've already got my extra extension lead!!!!!

Darren

[alistairsam]

Hi,
would 7pm be too dark to pitch a small tent, was planning on leaving from the cbd on fri evening to reach by 7pm. else will have to start earlier.

sorry about this Ken, but family's staying back. could you please update my booking, thanks

How many people: 1
How many nights : 2
Which nights : friday, Saturday (maybe sunday)
Bunkhouse or camping : Camping
Sat night feast: Yes

[Jen]

:screwy: i was chatting to him last week, i dont think he can make it this time :sadeyes:

[erick]

Alistairsam, re tent at 7pm - Sun won't be setting until close to 8pm by then. You'll be fine. :thumbsup:

[Dave47tuc]

Sorry mate (and to all my friends) I can not be there this time. I will also miss next March:sadeyes:
But life is a changing and needs looking after. So I will see you all sometime under the stars and have a great camp.:astron:

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Alistair :thumbsup:

Alterations done.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Dave.
Its a bummer really :(

Lets hope that circumstances change in the near future for March Camp :thumbsup:

[Jen]

:rolleyes: i will be arriving around that time but it takes me more than an hour to put a tent up :lol: specially if it there is a slight breeze hey John :rofl::rofl:

[Jen]

:(:( Dave im gonna miss you this year :rolleyes: now whos scope am i going to steal all weekend :question:
:confused2:

[desler]

I didn't think you were bringing a tent this time Jen, just a snorkel and flippers to do your mermaid impression!!!!!!


Is it November yet?

D

[danielsun]

Yeah , bummer Dave,:( I do hope you have a chance of getting things sorted to maybe get to the March camp for some well earned relaxation and stress relief.

Cheers Daniel.

[Jen]

:lol::lol:

3 weeks to go :D

[ballaratdragons]

STILL 2 BUNKHOUSES AVAILABLE

AND LOTS OF CAMPING SPACE

:thumbsup:

JUST UNDER 3 WEEKS TO GO

[Jen]

:eyepop: :eyepop:
12 more sleeps

:clap::clap::clap: :clap::clap::clap:

:cold: :astron: :camera: :campfire:
:rockband:
:driving:

[ballaratdragons]

. . . and your point is? :rofl:



Yep, nearly here and still 2 Bunkhouses available and plenty of camping space :thumbsup:

[Roobi]

hey guys. This sounds great, i might shuffle things round and see if i can get there. Will post again later if i can.

[erick]

[/CENTER]

Who can sleep :face:

[ballaratdragons]

:thumbsup:

[erick]

Time to start monitoring the extended weather forecasts. What can you see with your favourite? At the moment I see - "promising"! :)

[Jen]

:thumbsup:woohooo i hope its clear all weekend :prey::prey::prey:

[ballaratdragons]

This is promising: http://www.weatherzone.com.au/long-range-forecast/28-day-rain/vic/western

[Moonman]

Hi Ken,

Just got word of some cheap TT Line tickets for next March. Are you running another camp early 2011?

Cheers

Michael

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Michael.

Here are the dates for the next two years (camp already booked for all these dates)

2011:
4th - 8th March
and
25th - 29th November

2012:
23rd - 27th March
and
16th - 19th November

:thumbsup:

[erick]

Hope I make it back from the Cairns solar eclipse by then! :D

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Eric, you'll be back 3 days before camp starts, just in time to prepare your talk and display of the Eclipse for Camp :thumbsup: ;)

[erick]

I've just checked my accom booking there - I have departure for 15th. Obviously decided to stay a night after the eclipse on the 14th. Travel not finalised - maybe fly back from Cairns on 15th? I might make it to the start of camp to report on being clouded out at the eclipse :sadeyes:

[Roobi]

Hey there guys. i'll be good to go. heres my details:
How many people: 2
How many nights : 2
Which nights : friday, Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping : bunkhouse if still available.
Sat night feast: Yes

really looking forward to meeting you all and learning as much as i can.

:D

[ballaratdragons]

ONYA Roobi :thumbsup:

2 booked in :) Yes, in a Bunkhouse.

See you in just over 1 week.

[ballaratdragons]

ALL BUNKHOUSES ARE NOW BOOKED OUT

LOTS OF CAMPING SPACE STILL AVAILABLE

:thumbsup:

[erick]

So many people! (So many eyepieces to borrow :D )

[Roobi]

Woot. looking forward to it, my first astro camp, and many more to come i'm sure.

:D

[Octane]

It's looking less and less likely that I can make it. So sad.

Fingers crossed, though.

H

[mill]

Humi you have to make it :(
Who else can control Jen :gamer:

[Octane]

She'll be in the water with her flippers and snorkel and Doug will be patrolling in his canoe. All taken care of!

H

[mill]

A yeh the snorkel lady in the lake :)

[cjpops]

Hi all, is it possible for me to come along just for the evening?

[mill]

Yes afcourse you can come over :)

[cjpops]

Great! will be my first time joining a group of stargazers..

Might need to go back in this forum to find the exact location/address.

[Jen]

:lol::lol: lol Martin and H :rofl::rofl:

good on ya Craig c u there :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Here's a Map :thumbsup:

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=39454

[HCR32]

Is there an entry fee just to setup your scope for the night ?

[ballaratdragons]

No, only for accommodation etc. But you are welcome to make a donation ;)

Or book in for the Saturday Night Feast at 6pm ($20), then setup for a nights viewing.

Better still, come before 3pm Saturday and get the FREE entertainment of Shane Gilbert at 3pm too, then the feast at 6pm. :thumbsup:

You'll have to let me know if you are coming for the meal though, as I have to tell the Caterers how many to cook for :)

[GrampianStars]

Can't make nov 10'
However here's some Planetry data for you guys
Clear Sky :thumbsup:

[desler]

Why is time leading up to camp sooooooo slooooow!

Lets just get on with it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry, too much work and already packed ready to go, suffering withdrawal.


Darren

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Rob, much appreciated :)

Tip: It's Snake Valley, not 'Gully' ;) :thumbsup:

[Roobi]

Can't wait. 8 days to go.

[mill]

Patience grasshopper, patience :rofl::rofl:

[cjpops]

Oooooo thanks for the Map Ken!:D

Theres a good chance i'll join you guys for the feast (6pm) will confirm with you soon Ken.

[ballaratdragons]

That's OK Craig.

It's a very basic map, not to scale.

For example, from Dyson Drive to the Carngham turnoff into Snake Valley is about 25k
From the Snake Valley General Store to the Camp is about 3k :thumbsup:

[Jen]

:) yep it will cost u by having an annoying female wanting to have a look through your scope hehe :rofl:

[Jen]

:lol::lol: im half packed already ;):P

[erick]

:sadeyes: pack an umbrella

[alistairsam]

That's not good. wish we could "inject" a column of hot air and move the clouds aside just above the campsite :-)

after 2 cloudy nights at IISAC, was hoping for clear skies at my next camp, still hoping..

[alistairsam]

Hi Rob,

how and where do you retrieve this data from?

[GrampianStars]

Cartes Du Ciel V3.0, in setup menu-> observatory set lat./lon. & time zone, click on calender icon on toolbar, change viewing dates at top of pop up box as required, click solar system menu, select planets required, then save to file or print, :)

[alistairsam]

hi Ken, would there be an approximate street number I can enter into my GPS (I'm hopeless with navigation and am a slave to my GPS!!).

3k's from the general store is approximately 552 Carngham Linton Rd in google maps. is it around Lawrence Dr/Carngham Linton Rd?

[alistairsam]

Hi Eric,
I tried the 28 day rainfall forecast again and it showed nil for 5th to 10th. hope that does'nt change!

[erick]

You're a hero!! I should have....errr....refreshed the page! :ashamed:

[ballaratdragons]

Yes, the Camp is opposite Lawrence Drive on Carngham Linton Road. :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

only 5 sleeps to go

[erick]

Grass mowed? Security light will be off? What else is on the "to do" list for the camp site, Ken?

[ballaratdragons]

I doubt he has mowed the grass yet considering it's been pouring rain for the last week, but yes he assures me the light will be out.

[erick]

:thumbsup: thanks Ken

[leon]

That dose not surprise me Jen, :P have a great time, hope the weather is kind to you guys.

Leon :thumbsup:

[mill]

Was that half packed or half drunk :rofl::rofl::rofl:
Just joking Jen :P
3 day's to go !!!!:P

[Big Dave]

I assume there is Scope power available, or do I need to pack my Genny / Inverters?

[mill]

Dave, power is available :thumbsup:

[Roobi]

Is there anything else apart from gear, bedding and some food that we need to bring?

[Octane]

Insect repellant.

H

[erick]

YIKES! Keep any sprays in the accommodation. Only roll-ons near any scopes/eyepieces etc!!

At least (Eric hopes) it is not sandfly season - they attack viciously at the March camp (personal experience!)

[chrisp9au]

Will there be any vendors attending at the weekend?
Just thinking about how much to get out of the hole in the wall! :D

I'm bringing an EQ5 mount (no tripod), plus an Orion ST90 with 2" focuser, in the hopes somebody might be interested?

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[Exfso]

Peoples, I have just PM'd Ken, as my health is still not quite up to scratch, I have to pull the pin on this camp. At least it will free up a cabin, but rest assured I will be there for March. At this time it looks as though the weather gods are smiling favorably.
Have a great time, and please, plenty of piccies to show what I have missed out on.:sadeyes::sadeyes:

[Roobi]

Not long to go now. My bestie Deb and i are Really looking forward to meeting everyone for the first time. You'll all have to excuse my ameturism, but your all welcome to laugh at me if i do something totally wrong (astronomy wise) :P. But i'll try my hardest not to bug you all with my newbie questions.
Hopefully next time my hubby and son will come too.

[ballaratdragons]

Peter, we will miss you mate.
Just get well and we'll see you in March :thumbsup:

Roob, you won't be the only first timer or newbie. Others are coming too.
That's the whole point of these Camps, so people can come and learn :)


and suck the experienced ones dry of info :lol:


Due to Peters unfortunate cancellation another Bunkhouse has become available :thumbsup:

[chrisp9au]

I should have said "To sell", I trust that's ok?

I'm bringing my 12" dob and the TV Genesis for viewing.

Any vendors?

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Chris, that is fine.

In some previous Camps we have had a BUY/SWAP/SELL table on Saturday.

We will do it again.

SATURDAY PROGRAM

1PM TILL 3PM - THERE WILL BE A BUY/SWAP/SELL TABLE OUTSIDE THE DINING ROOM

3PM - ENTERTAINMENT: SHANE GILBERT

6PM - SATURDAY NIGHT FEAST

EACH NIGHT - 'LIVE' VIDEO ASTRONOMY'

:)

[Jen]

:lol::lol: lol Martin, a bit of both me thinks LOL

Hey guess what ? its finally November :D

[Jen]

:sadeyes: awww im sorry to hear that Pete i will miss you ((hugs)) now im going to have to keep Douggie in line all by myself LOL LOL... :Pthe important thing is that you get better real soon :thumbsup: And i promise i will have a great time :D cheers buddy xo

[Jen]

:eyepop: oh man really is there a give away table too :lol::lol: I would so love a new mount but i wasnt prepared for this i didnt save my pennies dam it :(

[byronpaul]

Pete - sorry to hear you won't be able to make it. The camp will be a "little" quieter without you :rofl::rofl:

Roobi - trust me. Newbies are more than welcome and all the "experts" are more than willing to offer assistance .... be it imagers or visual. One of the best things about the camp is the ability to see what others are doing, look through their equipment, and then go back and try it on your own.

Only thing that gets peoples back up is white light at night, so all newbies should come armed with red torches :thumbsup:

[desler]

Geez Pete!

We'll talk soon, but I'll miss my silent partner when Jen embarrasses us!!!!

Darren

[Roobi]

no probs, already got a little torch ready with red cellophane on it lol.
Does anyone know any good programs like stellarium for iphone, i might bring my hubbies iphone instead of the laptop, but i'd still like to be able to easily find my targets.

[mill]

Bugger Pete, now you miss out on some fine whisky :(
Hope to see you next camp and get better soon :thumbsup:

[mill]

Better take the lappie with the bigger screen :)

[leon]

Hope you guys have fun, and the weather holds out for you.

Leon

[danielsun]

Thanks Leon.;)
I am really looking forward to the camp and catching up with everyone again.:)


That's a bugger Pete.:( We will definitely miss you mate, take care and get yourself all better and look forward to seeing you in March.;)


Cheers Daniel.

[richardda1st]

Have a look at Sky Voyager & Starmap Pro in the Apple Apps store. Also have a look at this link http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=67017 there's other threads as well.

A headlamp with red light from most hardware stores such as Bunnings is a real good idea, I use a cheapie (Varta Brand I think for $15.00) works well.

Cheers
Richard

[erick]

165 posts and we haven't even got to the camp yet :screwy:

Who says we are excited :D

[Jen]

:rofl::rofl::rofl: LMAO Eric and 25 of them are mine :lol: :P

[mill]

HUH we? You are not going arent you :P
Just jump in a plane and come over :thumbsup:
2, two day's left :P

[ballaratdragons]

Friday Mostly sunny. Winds E/SE averaging 10 to 20 km/h. - mostly sunny

Saturday Mostly sunny. Winds E/NE averaging 15 to 30 km/h tending N/NE up to 35 km/h around midday.

So far so good :thumbsup:

[Chillie]

Enjoy yourselves guys and girls. Now that I'm finally getting a reliable car (picking it up Thursday), I might be able to make it to Snake Valley in March.

As you can see in the third picture, I should have the room for my 12" Dob.

[chrisp9au]

Starting to pack today! :D

Love the Weatherzone website http://www.weatherzone.com.au/vic/western/ballarat
But it's looking a bit iffy for Sunday - Monday:rolleyes:

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[ballaratdragons]

- IMPORTANT NOTICE -


Due to the amount of rain in our area over the last few weeks, and the effect it has had on the ground, the owner of the Snake Valley Camp has contacted me and asked that:

NO CARS OR CARAVANS GO ONTO THE GRASSED AREA.

All cars and caravans must park either out the front or inside on the Bitumen Forecourt.That unfortunately means that all items, tents, mounts, scopes etc must be carried to the observing field from the bituman area.

I'm sorry that this has happened, and that it won't put anyone off from attending.
I'm sure we can help each other with carrying equipment.
The weather is one thing that we just can't control.

I will be needing assistance in sorting out the parking problem please. Hopefully we can get all 4 caravans easily parked in the forecourt :thumbsup:

[JohnG]

Know just the bloke for that :lol:, no not me :D.

Cheers

[erick]

Oh well, new adventures for us all! :)

Can we organise a group of sherpas to carry gear for the expedition? :D

[chrisp9au]

Mine is only a small one! 5m x 2m 2 berth.
I'll be there around lunch time if you need a hand Ken.

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[chrisp9au]

I'll pack a hand trolley, that can be used by anyone that needs it.

Chris

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Chris, but the Camp Owner doesn't hand the keys over to me until 2pm.
I should be up there about 1:30 though :thumbsup:
The help will be appreciated.

It will be like turning a large Bitumen area into a small compact village for 4 days :)

[chrisp9au]

Such is life!
Might even be close enough for a power cord to the van?
Getting the microwave going would be good!

Chris

[ballaratdragons]

Power isn't a problem Chris. You will be parked amongst the buildings.
We even supply power to the whole observing field.

[chrisp9au]

Excellent, thanks Ken!

Chris

[Paddy]

I was planning to bring my beloved's vintage caravan - it's only small - will there be room? If not I could bring a tent, but was hoping to use this salubrious accommodation.

[Roobi]

lets hope that skippysky is reasonably correct for fri and sat night, little bit of cloud, but i've got my fingers crossed there will be some big patches. We've been clouded out for a week nearly now. I'm getting withdrawals. :(

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Patrick, bring the caravan by all means. You've seen how big the forecourt is. We'll fit everyone in with room to spare :thumbsup:

[niko]

Well, I'm excited!!!!!Despite some hectic issues at work and ailing elderly parents I'm gunna be there!! YAY. Even the weather looks like it'll co-operate.Now if only I can get the cobwebs off all the gear I should be right! Now, how do you collimate again....? where does the the camera go...? what's polar aligning....? is it +10 or +11 hours for the synscan....? .....? .....???lolsee you all in a few days!!niko

[ballaratdragons]

Cool Henry :thumbsup:

Yep, the 12" will fit easy. See you in March.

[ballaratdragons]

where does the the camera go...? what's polar aligning....? . . . eyepiece?

what's an eyepiece :rofl:

[Paddy]

Thanks, Ken.

I hope to be there about 2ish on Friday and I'm happy to help out in whatever way I can with logistics etc.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Patrick :thumbsup:

[alexch]

Ken,

I started thinking about packing and the gear list makes the cargo space in the car very limited. Not having to carry food supplies would make it a bit easier. My questions:
- will there be food catering available for the whole duration of the camp or just on Saturday;
- if yes then what meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner?

Cheers,
Alex

[mill]

Only Saturday night Alex.
You could always get your food in Ballarat on the way in.
I do that all the time.

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Alex, as Martin says, we cater for the Saturday night only.

There is a General store at Linton 5 minutes away with some groceries, Fish & Chips etc. a Supermarket at Smythesdale 10 minutes away, and everything at Ballarat 20 minutes away if you want to take a trip in.

[mill]

PS: one more day to go :cool::cool::cool::2thumbs::2thumbs ::stargaze::stargaze::astron::astro n::astron::face::face::face::face:: rockband::rockband::rockband::help2 ::party2::party2::party2::party::pa rty::campfire::campfire::lol2::lol2 ::lol2:

[chrisp9au]

Just wondering what mobile phone coverage is like at Snake Valley?

Actually I'm not wondering, SWMBO is demanding to know how she can 'get hold' of me! :help:

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[ballaratdragons]

Chris, there is full 100% coverage for Telstra services.
Not much to almost none for the other providers.

[cjpops]

so Optus coverage is definitely pretty slim over there?

[ballaratdragons]

Optus has put a small tower in Snake Valley in the last year but I'm not with Optus so I have no idea how well their tower works.
It's only a small tower, looks a bit like a windmill on a thousand farms around Oz.

Here is the site to check on Optus coverage: http://www.optus.com.au/portal/site/aboutoptus/menuitem.813c6f701cee5a14f0419f108c 8ac7a0/?vgnextoid=fb22ed59e4054010VgnVCM10 000029a67c0aRCRD&vgnextchannel=6ed776b387797010VgnVC M10000029867c0aRCRD

Looks like you might be OK.

[cjpops]

Thanks for that. looks like 2G only for Optus in that area, better than nothing :D.

i'll bring my iPad and run StarMapHD, any starmap apps others recommend?

[erick]

First pics in from the observing field at SVAA! :D

[Jen]

:lol::lol::lol: lol Eric :thumbsup:

[Alios]

Hi Ken, just joined, I'd like to book for this weekend
Name: Alois Dvornik
How many people: 2
Number of nights: 2, Saturday
Bunkhouse or camping: camping
Saturday night feast: 2

[chrisp9au]

:rofl::rofl:I'm looking forward to meeting Jen in her flippers in that lot! :rofl::rofl:

[Alios]

Sorry, 2 nights means Saturday and Sunday

[ballaratdragons]

Excellent, thanks Alois. You are booked in :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Good group :thumbsup:

Ken
Jacob
Aaron
Danielsun
Mill
Barry
Angus
Evelyn
Desler
JohnG
Doug
Michael
Emiel
Paddy
Dannat
Erick
chrisp9au
Astrobserver99
Jen
ByronPaul
Lachlan
Nikko
Alexch - plus 3 others
Piers
CloudyAgain Neale
Magaret
Rodney
barx1963
Big Dave
Alistairsam - plus 2 others
Richardda1st
Roobi - plus 1 other
Brian - plus 1 other
Craig cjpops
Peter HCR32
Alois - plus 1 other

Maybe's -
Colin
DaveU
Bob B

[byronpaul]

Ken,

just read the note about caravans :(

My big van is going to be pretty hard to manouvre into the courtyard.

Assuming that there is no chance of putting it in the usual spot next to the Rec Hall, then only likely spot will be out the front, but I can't say I recall that area well for placing a van.

We'll be there about 5pm Friday so we'll see what we have to deal with then.

[ballaratdragons]

OK Paul,
hopefully we'll have it worked out before you arrive so you can go straight to a good spot :thumbsup:

[byronpaul]

Oh Ken,

Lachlan wanted to know if your boys will be at the camp?????

He has a ball playing with them ..... as opposed to hanging around with his old man :P :P

[ballaratdragons]

Yep, they are arriving Saturday around 11am :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Here is the latest weather forecast.

Looking good except for Sunday, but who knows, it could clear up Sunday night :shrug:
It's happened before.

I remember about 2 camps back, when a lot of people left on the Sunday coz the weather turned to crap, and then just after sunset it all cleared up to be the best night of the whole Camp, so anything is possible :thumbsup:

[Paddy]

Has that bloke in the 4th picture been looking for his baby SDM?

[erick]

Might need advice on washing a few inches of mud off a mirror, after I get it excavated :sadeyes:

[ballaratdragons]

I have started a thread for Camp reports so they don't get lost at the end of this thread.

211 posts in this thread and Camp hasn't even started!!!! :rofl:

So as you mosey back from Camp, (or even while you are there if you have wireless internet) here is the place for the 11th SV Camp stories and pics
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=67773
:thumbsup:

1 sleep to go

woooo-hooooooooo :lol:

[Big Dave]

Sorry all, we have had an emergency at work and I have to go in this weekend. My off-sider has pulled the Doctors Certificate card for a flu and I can't get any fill-in guys this weekend at short notice.

Have a great time and put me in for the next camp. The weather was looking promising for Friday & Saturday in particular which makes this a hard result for me (also all the packing I had done this week as well) - I guess that is the con for not being an employee who puts in leave requests.
:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(: (:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:( :(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

[ballaratdragons]

OK Dave, not good.
Oh well, there's always next time :thumbsup:
See you in March Big Fella :)

Thanks for letting us know :thumbsup:

[Big Dave]

Change it to a maybe, I am going to work tomorrow fully loaded with my gear. If this replacement drive card that is being sent comes before lunch and goes in with no dramas I will still be there.:prey::prey::prey::prey:

If it doesn't work, i have to spend all weekend changing a stupid drive panel over.

[Jen]

:lol::lol: lol Chris and im looking forward to meeting that EQ5 mount of yours hehehe :thumbsup:

[chrisp9au]

No wurries Jen, you're the first to show interest so you can check it out when you arrive.
Just the EQ5 head, no tripod etc.

All packed, ready to go in the morning! :D

See you there!

Chris

[erick]

Gee, I'm going be in a fit state to stay up tonight!! and observe all night.

OK, I'm off to bed to get my final "1 sleep"!

Haven't started packing yet - Yikes!

[danielsun]

:help: Neither have I! Up early for me I think.

[Jen]

Im still packing :lol::lol:

[danielsun]

It's 2:00 am, I suppose I should get some sleep so I can pack in the morning.

[Roobi]

sorry guys im not going to be able to make it (tonight at least) babysitters fallen through. Hopefully i can tee up somethng for tomorrow night and still come down. Ken if we can still come tomorrow night, we'll just sleep in the car, or wait till we get home on sunday to sleep, so hopefully someone else can get use of the bunkhouse.
What a bugger, i made a whole heap of honey joys and marsbar slice. I'll try not to eat them all in my depression of not coming but I'll keep my fingewrs crossed for tomorrow.

Cheers everyone.

[Big Dave]

It arrived early and worked! I'm on my way.........
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D: D

[barx1963]

On ya Dave! Cars packed about to leave, should be there and getting set in about 1 hour.
Hope you make it Roobi! (I love honey joys!;))

Malcolm

[Jen]

Leaving in 5 minutes woohooooo :thumbsup: see you all in three hours :D

[Moonman]

Just booked my tickets for March 2011.:stargaze::eyepop::):party2:

Emiel and I will be there all four nights!

Cheers

Mike

[Jen]

:thumbsup::thumbsup: good on ya Mike see ya there :D

[cjpops]

hmm the next camp conflicts with the Avalon Airshow weekend.. :(

Is there a Ballarat get together astro evening before then?

[mill]

Hi Craig.
The next club meeting is on the 3rd of December at SVAA's CLub Site at 825 Carngham Linton Road, Snake Valley and starts at 19:30 .
This is a just a club night but the general public is also welcome.
Have a look here for more info : http://svaatest.site88.net/ :thumbsup: