Snake Valley Astro Camp - March 2011

[ballaratdragons]

The 12th SNAKE VALLEY ASTRONOMY CAMP

4th - 8th MARCH 2011


Bookings can be made in this thread

Copy/paste this booking information into your post:

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

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

To allow more people to attend the camp some people may have to share a bunkhouse.

FEES

Bunkhouses (per person)
2 nights $50.00
3 nights $75.00
4 nights $90.00

Campsite (per person)
1 night $20.00
2 nights $40.00
3 nights $60.00
4 nights $80.00

Children under 5 y.o. - FREE

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

- The observing field has 240v power.
- There are 12 Bunkhouses (from 2 to 8 bunks) and lots of camping space on the observing field.
- Caravans welcome.
- Hot showers & toilets in a Caravan Park style Amenities block.
- Large dining room for about 60 people
- Recreation Room (Billiards, Table Tennis)
- Fully Equipped kitchen with all cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, fridges etc.
- Lake for swimming, fishing, canoeing etc.
- BBQ facilities

*Please note, Bunkhouses CANNOT be booked for 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.

* Aerosols of ANY description (Aeroguard, Deodorent etc) are TOTALLY BANNED on the observing field. Stray spray can permanently damage optics.

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.

Keep watching this thread for any updated details about the March 2011 SVAA Astronomy Camp at Snake Valley :thumbsup:

Thank you
SVAA

THE BUNKHOUSES
The Bunkhouses range from 2, 4, or 6 bunks up to several with 8 bunks (4 sets of upper and lower bunks).

They have Mattresses, but no bed linen. You will need to supply your own sheets, blankets, Doona's, and pillows. Or just throw a sleeping bag on the mattress.

CAMPING
The Observing Field/Camping area is on a very gentle slope to assist drainage, bordered on on the west by Trees and the road, and on the east by the lake. Plenty of room for a lot of people to camp and set up.
240v power is supplied.

SKY
Very Dark. There is a faint light dome visible low in the east, coming from Ballarat, Melbourne and Geelong.

COOKING
The Kitchen is fully equipped.
All cutlery, cooking utensils, pots, pans, jugs, you name it it's probably there!
Microwaves, Grillers, enormous Gas Ovens and stove top, 3 fridge/freezers.
All you need is your food.

SHOPS
There are supplies available locally.
3k - Snake Valley General Store: Basic groceries, Petrol etc
Closes 12:00 Sat, Shut Sunday

5k - Linton Store: Basic groceries, Petrol, Hot Fish & Chips, Hamburgers etc.
Open 7 days till 8pm

12k - Smythesdale: Supermarket, Petrol, shops.
Open 7 days

20 minutes - Ballarat

LOCAL SIGHTS: Nimmons Bridge (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Trestle_bridge_Newtown_Victori a.jpg), Computer Museum (http://www.computermuseum.bigpondhosting.c om/), Jubilee Gold Mine Historic Reserve (http://www.onmydoorstep.com.au/heritage-listing/5517/jubilee-company-quartz-gold-mine), Sovereign Hill (http://sovereignhill.com.au/), etc. etc.

[Astroman]

Name: Andrew aka Astroman
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 1 (arriving around 7-8pm, unless I get lost)
Which nights: Sunday
Bunkhouse or Camping: camping
Saturday Night Feast: Left overs? :) No wont be there...

[mill]

Name: Martin (mill)
How many people: 1
Number of nights: all
Which nights: all again :P
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Oh yeh baby :cool:

[Rob_K]

Name: Rob
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 3
Which nights: Fri, Sat, Sun
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Yes

Figure if I book in, this time I'll have to make it! :lol: Thanks Ken & the SV team for keeping this great event rolling on. :thumbsup:

Cheers -

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Andrew, Martin and Rob :thumbsup:

Those already booked in and don't need to book in here again:
Me (obviously)
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)

:thumbsup:

[that_guy]

I'll book as long as someone pays for the bus fare or plane ticket :P

[barx1963]

Great Ken!

Name: Malcolm
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Fri, Sat,
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Yes

[Exfso]

Good stuff Ken.

Name: Peter
Number of people: 1
number of nights: 4
Bunkhouse please
Feast, well it depends on my taste buds and saliva glands:shrug:

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Malcolm and Pete :thumbsup:

Sorry Tony. Try hitching :D

Those Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)

[danielsun]

Yep, count me in.;)

Name: Danielsun
How many people: 1
Number of nights: All four
Which nights: All
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Yes please!

Can't wait!!!:)

[mill]

Good to see you are well enough to come Pete :)
Just take some of my food and your taste buds will do very well :P

[danielsun]

Yep , It'll be great to see you and catch up again Pete.;)

[Paddy]

YAY KEN!:thumbsup:

Patrick Kavanagh
1 person
2 nights camping (Friday and Saturday)
1 (vegetarian) feast

Great to see that you'll be coming Pete!

Is it March yet?

[desler]

Look forward to seeing everyone including you Pete.

Darren

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Daniel and Patrick :thumbsup:


Those Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)

[chrisp9au]

Name: Chris (chrisp9au)
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Saturday & Sunday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: yes please!

Cheers :thumbsup:
Chris

[alistairsam]

looking forward to it Ken

Name: Alistair samson (alistairsam)
How many people: one
Number of nights:two
Which nights:fri,sat
Bunkhouse or Camping:camping
Saturday Night Feast:yep

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Chris and Alistair :thumbsup:

Those Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)

[barx1963]

Looks like a good crew. Hows the fork mount going Alastair?

[Hagar]

Name: Doug Braidwood
How many people: Just 1
Number of nights: all 4
Which nights:All
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Of course.

I'll bring the Tuna, going fishing the week before the camp.

[mill]

Doug that tuna is excellent :thumbsup:

[alistairsam]

Hi malcolm,
pretty good. have changed the ota to an F4, and have gotten decent exposures for upto a minute unguided.
still loads to refine, but should be vastly improved by march. should have most of it wireless as well.
thanks for asking.

[erick]

I'm in!

Name: Eric (erick)
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 4
Which nights: Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: yes please!

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Doug and Eric :thumbsup:

Those Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)

[Jen]

:eyepop::eyepop:
:clap::clap::clap: im so excited is it March yet :question::D
It is coming around so quick :P

I already booked in back in November LMAO :D
Sorry guys im coming back to annoy you all again ;)
I need to make sure Douggie is fully cured from Vertigo :rofl::rofl:


Name: Jen
How many people: 1 and maybe my son (Drew)
Number of nights: 4
Which nights: Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping
Saturday Night Feast: hell yeah ! :P

IS IT MARCH YET :D

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Jen,
as long as you don't have to swim all the way :lol:



Not quite yet. :P

[Heath]

This will be my first event and I'm very excited! Even coached the wife into coming along.

Name: Heath (Heater)
How many people: 2 (My wife Joanne as well)
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Friday & Saturday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping
Saturday Night Feast: Absolutely!

[GrampianStars]

This will be my first stay.
I'm not driving home at 5.00am with Roo's jumping everywhere :rolleyes:

Name: Rob (GSO)
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 1
Which nights: Saturday
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping
Saturday Night Feast: Yep!

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Heath, Joanne, and Rob :thumbsup:

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)

[Jen]

:eyepop: wow this list is growing very quickly :thumbsup::thumbsup:

H and Niko, Bird, Tim, AlexH and Dave i dont see your names on here yet :rolleyes: Ummm im sure i will think of a few more ;)
Who else is missing :)

Oh Pete im so glad you are on the list your such a champ buddy xoxoxo

Oh i remembered a few more Alios, BigDave, Geoff

[Dave47tuc]

Okay jen ;)

Name: Dave.
How many people:1
Number of nights:All
Which nights:All
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse please
Saturday Night Feast: Yes please.

Jen ;):rolleyes:;)

[Jen]

:clap::clap::clap:
yay good on ya Dave :D

xoxo

:thumbsup:

[Octane]

Jen,

Don't think I can make it, sorry.

H

[Jen]

:eyepop: HHHHHHHHHHHHH........... but but how am i supposed to make all the IIS chicks jealous if you dont come to SV LMAO ;)
aww u missed the last one :shrug:

[desler]

Don't worry Jen, There will be plenty of silent admirers!

Hah hahah ha.

And of course Doug with his Tuna!

Darren

[Jen]

:D
:lol::lol::lol: ;)

[Colin_Fraser]

I'll be there as well Ken. 1 person
Camping Friday, Saturday(and the famous feast), Sunday and Monday.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Dave and Colin :thumbsup:

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)

[Astroman]

Ken I might be there on Monday night also, depending on how knackered I am from the day before. Will see how we go on the Sunday.

[ballaratdragons]

:thumbsup: ok Andrew :)

[mill]

Andrew you won't be knackered because it is just fun to be there :P
You are younger than most of us and should be able to go all night and more :eyepop:

[Rob_K]

Looks like Lorraine will be coming with me, so that will be an extra Sat night feast. Will confirm closer to the event. :thumbsup:

Cheers -

[mill]

Get the insect spray out everyone :rofl::rofl:

[Jen]

:eyepop: hey guess what? Its February already :D

:scared3:

[mill]

Is it???? :eyepop::question:

[desler]

So come people, let's start planning, what objects are you going to try and capture or view this camp?

After all, according to Jen it's February!


Darren

[ballaratdragons]

Best to keep target lists out of this thread please Darren :thumbsup:

This one is to take bookings and give info about directions to camp site, etc. otherwise I miss bookings made amongst the chit-chat ;)


Come on folks, lots of space still available at camp. Only a month to go :thumbsup:

[alexch]

Looks like I'll have to wait until October - can't make it this March...
Cheers,
Alex

[ballaratdragons]

November ;)

[niko]

YAY!!

What a list already

count me in too

Niko
4 nights
feast
camping

any target as long as it ain't clouds!!

[desler]

No worries Ken, We'll miss you Alex.

Ah Niko, I'm glad your finally on the list

Darren

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Nick :thumbsup:

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)

[Big Dave]

Name: Big Dave
How many people:1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Fri & Sat
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping
Saturday Night Feast: :lol: The Dessert Monster is back! :eyepop:

As always, weather and work permitting but.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Dave :thumbsup:

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)

[Jen]

:clap::clap:
:lol::lol: your keen Niko :thumbsup: good to see your making sure you dont miss the last/best night this time :rofl:

Awww Alexxxxxxxxxxx im going to miss your scope :P

[ballaratdragons]

Only 3 weeks till Camp, and still lots of camping space available and even a bunkhouse still available.

Book now before camp comes and goes, and you miss out :thumbsup:

[richardda1st]

Book me in please Ken.:D
Must not miss out!:thumbsup:
Must try and spot the southern cross, had a bit of trouble last camp but thanks to Barry,s help I managed to find it.:question::lol:

Name: Richard
How many people:1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Fri & Sat
Bunkhouse or Camping: Bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: yes

[ballaratdragons]

Excellent Richard. Thanks :thumbsup:

[Jen]

:clap::clap: yay three weeks to go woohooo :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Waiting to hear from a few regulars still :poke: :)

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)
Richard (richardda1st)

:astron:

[Starkler]

Name: Geoff
How many people:1
Number of nights: 3
Which nights: Fri, Sat, sun
Bunkhouse or Camping: Dibs on any bunkhouse available, camping if need be
Saturday Night Feast: yup

Scope is still on the trailer since my last visit to Snake Valley :lol:
Time to dust off the cobwebs.

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Geoff, good on you :thumbsup:

Just dust it all off when you get here :lol:


Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)
Richard (richardda1st)
Geoff (Starkler)

:2thumbs:

[ballaratdragons]

We now have only one Bunkhouse left. It has 8 bunks.
Get a few mates together, or the family, book it here and come along.
:stargaze:

Still lots of camping space for those with tents :campfire: :thumbsup:

[Jen]

:eyepop: cool another SDM on the field :love::love::love::love:
:P good on ya Geoff get rid of those cobwebs buddy

[Paul Haese]

Name: Paul
How many people:1
Number of nights: 3
Which nights: Fri, Sat, sun
Bunkhouse or Camping: bunkhouse
Saturday Night Feast: Yes please

[desler]

Great news Paul!

Look forward to catching up.

Darren

[Jen]

:eyepop: ooohhhh a new person for jen to harrass :lol::lol: on ya Haese see you there :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Paul :thumbsup:

Yes, I was asleep at 12:15pm when you rang :P
I had a bit of a late night :lol:


Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)
Richard (richardda1st)
Geoff (Starkler)
Paul (Paul Haese)

[Greenswale]

Bewdy, I can do it!

Name: Wren
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 3
Which nights: Fri, Sat, Sun,
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camp
Saturday Night Feast: You betcha!

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Wren :thumbsup:

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)
Richard (richardda1st)
Geoff (Starkler)
Paul (Paul Haese)
Wren (Greenswale)

[Paul Haese]

I am happy to bunk in the room I have with a few others (since there are 8 beds in there). Anthony may require one of the beds so that is bags at this stage. Please no snorers thanks. :)

[Chillie]

Paul, You will be pleased that I won't be there then.:lol:

The reason is my on going leg problems (now in both legs) and a few other issues.

[Ijay]

First timer at Snake Valley. Looking forward to it.

Name: Ivan (Ijay)
How many people: 1
Number of nights: 2
Which nights: Sat and Sun
Bunkhouse or Camping: Camping
Saturday Night Feast: Yes please

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Ivan :thumbsup:

There's always a couple of 1st timers. Your not the only one this time either :)

Booked in:
Me (ballaratdragons)
Angus
Evelyn
Aaron (Little Dragon)
Jake
Andrew (Astroman)
Martin (mill)
Barry Coverdale (President: BAS)
John (JohnG)
Darren (Desler)
Neale (cloudyagain)
John (xtream)
Anna (anna)
Rob (RobK)
Malcolm (barx1963)
Peter (Exfso)
Daniel (Danielsun)
Patrick (Paddy)
Chris (chrisp9au)
Alistair (alistairsam)
Doug (Hagar)
Eric (erick)
Jen (Jen)
Heath (Heater)
Joanne
Rob (GrampianStars)
Dave (Dave47tuc)
Colin (Colin_Fraser)
Nick (Niko)
Dave (Big Dave)
Richard (richardda1st)
Geoff (Starkler)
Paul (Paul Haese)
Wren (Greenswale)
Ivan (Ijay)

[mill]

My pathetic boss decided that i could only take Friday and Monday off :(
He was pissed off because i was sick after my operation and might have Menieres disease and Tinititus.
So i have to change to 3 day's,bunkhouse and Saturday night meal:(
Looks like i be better off changing jobs.

[barx1963]

Hey Martin
Sorry to hear that. As a fellow Menieres sufferer (diagnosed about 3 years ago) I know there are lots of people out there who have no idea what it is like. For those members unfamiliar it is a condition that affects the inner ear. When you have a full on attack you literally cannot even stand up and even opening your eyes causes you to throw up. A major attack can put you in hosptital as you can dehydrate quite quickly. I have not had any major events for about 18months, controlling it with Stemzine and a low salt diet. Anyway Martin, hope it all works out for you and see you at the camp.:thumbsup:

Malcolm

[desler]

Too much of that spicy sausage........

3 nights are better than none mate. ce ya soon.

Darren

[Jen]

:rolleyes: oh bugger Martin you musn't have a very nice boss at least you get 3 nights there so that means Monday night is going to be the best clear night AGAIN :rofl: :thumbsup:

[Astroman]

Tempted to stay the extra night then, just to see Martin again :) , not long now...

[ballaratdragons]

No good Martin.

I hope you don't get hit with this rotten disease too badly.

No problems about the shorter stay, but no good about your Boss!
See you in 2 weeks mate.

[mill]

The worst thing is this $$$#%@#$ high continious tone in my right hand ear :(




Whhoooo i love very spicy stuff but i think i have met my match.
My sis in law made me something that will backfire out of your (not saying this in a public forum :P ).



Jen we still have to get on the outlook to make some cool pictures.
Lol you will be right about Monday :)



Thanks mate i am looking forward to seeing you again too :)

[Logieberra]

On a side note, I have family in Cardigan Village (next to Ballarat)! I was down there in January, brought my astro gear, and imaged alone :( I'd be intereseted to catch up with you guys in that region when I'm down next. Is there an astro club / contact / web site for the region?

How often do you guys run the SVAC? I will try and coincide a family with your future events.

Cheers,

Logan.

[Logieberra]

Ohhh struth! Just found your website. What great facilities. I'm kicking myself for not checking out your club years ago! http://svaatest.site88.net/

Anyways, see you guys sometime in the future.

Logie.

[ballaratdragons]

:lol: OK Logan. See you soon on one of your trips down.
Cardigan Village is about 10 minutes from here :)

Here is the other site you missed :thumbsup: http://astronomycamps.bravehost.com/

Still plenty of room if you can make it in 2 weeks time ;)

[Paddy]

What is the most effective insect repellent for Snake Valley sandflies?

[mill]

Anything with Deet in it and in roll on form (remember Pete will be watching like a hawk :P ).
:rofl::rofl::rofl:

[desler]

Various camping stores are selling "Bushmans" repellant in a squeeze tube. 90% Deet, I've always found it good.


Darren

[Octane]

A sacrificial Eric.

H

[ballaratdragons]

Less than 2 weeks to go!

Still taking bookings :thumbsup:

[erick]

:mad2: OK, let's take this discussion over to here:-

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=71255

[byronpaul]

Hi all,

Lachlan and I are both really pev'ed as it doesn't look like we are going to make it to this camp

Some of you might recall, I'm the President of the local Basketball Club, and that weekend, on the Saturday we'll probably have about 20 Teams in Grand Finals and then on the Sunday I'm hosting our formal Presentation Luncheon for about 700 people ..... or about 300 kids under 18 :eyepop: :eyepop:.

The dates just didn't work out for this camp. :sadeyes: :( :sadeyes:

I think the Friday and Saturday nights are 100% out, but I haven't totally dismissed the Sunday night - all though it would probably be a VERY last minute decision to come for either the evening or night. If I can wrangle it, I'll be there.

Patrick and Chris - was really looking forward to trying out some solar observing with my recently aquired Solarmax 40 ...... but will have to wait until Nov Camp.

Good to see some new people coming along. Hope you all have a great time.

Paul

[Rob_K]

That's a pity Paul, would have been great to catch up again! Will keep fingers crossed for Sunday night! :thumbsup:

Cheers -

[Jen]

:eyepop: Awww bugger Paul hope you can still make it Sunday :thumbsup:
13 more sleeps

:D:D:D:D:D:D

[Paddy]

Thanks chaps. I suspect sacrificing Eric is too high a price to pay, so I'll just go with DEET. Sorry you won't be able to make it Paul. Look forward to catch up in November

[Rob_K]

Personally, I'm in favour of lashing a naked Eric to a pole in the centre of the observing field, but if the consensus is for a chemical, non-natural solution I'm happy to bring the Aerogard (nowhere near Pete). :thumbsup:

Cheers -

[mill]

Erick bound to a pole yessssss :rofl:
Naked NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!! :eyepop:
I am imaging but still want to keep my night vision intact :P

[Paddy]

Perhaps this should be enacted by yourself and Eric within the privacy of a bunkhouse. There will be young folk present.

Or is this just the next logical step for Snake Valley?:jawdrop:

[ballaratdragons]

If you haven't booked in yet, be aware that time is running out.

Under 2 weeks to go :thumbsup:

BOOK NOW BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE

[Exfso]

Ken, have you checked out the road from Beaufort to SV as yet? Grampian stars reckons there are no signs up indicating closure, but need to know definitely so I can plan the route.:)

[ballaratdragons]

Going for a drive to Beaufort tomorrow or Thursday Pete to see if the road is open yet. :thumbsup:

[Jen]

;) i will follow you Pete :D leave a trail behind you so you can lead me the way :lol:

[Exfso]

Thanks Ken..:thumbsup:

[Moonman]

Hi Ken,

I did let you know late in November last year that Emiel and I will be heading over for the camp. At that stage the new thread wasn't up so I imagine the details might have slipped your attention.

Emiel and I (Micheal) will be there for 4 nights and of course participating in the feast.

We will be camping out.

Apologies for the late reminder as I wasn't monitoring the thread.

Cheers

Michael:):thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks Michael. :thumbsup:

BOOKINGS STILL BEING TAKEN

[Astroman]

I'll be travelling that road next Wednesday Pete, so I will try and remember to let you know what the roads are like.

[Exfso]

Thanks Andrew..

[barx1963]

Ken
Unfortunately I hacve to pull out of the feast on Sat night, have to go to Werribee for a few hours!:sadeyes::mad2:
I will be returning to SN about midnight Saturday, I will try and not make too much noise/light as I drive in!
Still OK for the Friday night though.

Malcolm

[ballaratdragons]

Thanks for letting me know, Malcolm.
I'm sure someone will eat your share :P

As you probably remember, there is always plenty of leftovers for seconds and thirds, so when you get back around midnight just heat up a whole meal for yourself :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

Peter, Andrew, Jen, Paul, Rob, and anyone else coming in from the Western end of the state,

the road from Beaufort to Snake Valley has been re-opened :) :thumbsup:

About half way from Beaufort to Snake Valley you will see a few small areas where the road has been water affected and one very large area where it looks like a Giant with his giant Wire Brush has stripped the road and the bridge of it's top layer and dumped all that gravel and tar into the paddocks on the right hand side, and many fences are gone or destroyed.
The area is a mess but the road is totally usable. You'll just have to slow down to about 60kph for about 1 minute. That's all :thumbsup:

See you all in about a week. :)

[Exfso]

Thanks very much for that Ken. I can now throw away the alternate maps I was preparing...:D

[Paul Haese]

Thanks Ken. I am following Pete anyway, so where ever he goes I follow.:)

[desler]

Be carefull following Pete, He has some very strange idea's on the orientation of certain things to directions!

More shall be revealled at those late night coffee breaks at SV....Hahahaha

Darren

[Paul Haese]

Don't worry Pete and I go back quite a few years now. His sense of direction is not as bad as you may think.;)

[Hagar]

If he turns the map sideways run!!!!!!!!!!!:eyepop:

[Astroman]

He should be okay if he uses the GPS he has :) Better check to make sure mine is pointing the right direction too, roll on next week :)

[Exfso]

Holy cow boys, you are a bit hard on me...:lol: The car knows how to get there without me even driving I reckon, which is probably a good thing.:P

[ballaratdragons]

:cool: ONE WEEK TO GO :cool:

:astron:

BOOK NOW!

:campfire:


.

[erick]

promising :confuse3:

[barx1963]

The Elders Weather website shows weather for Snake Valley to be

Friday
Max 17
Min 5
5% Chance of rain likely amount <1mm
Mostly Sunny

Saturday
Max 19
Min 7
5% Chance of rain likely amount <1mm
Mostly Sunny

They almost alway show "
5% Chance of rain likely amount <1mm" I have never seen zero chance of rain!
So looking not too bad.

[pgc hunter]

Looking at the latest forecast models, clouds are a threat for Friday Night, but Saturday and Sunday nights are a good chance with a high pressure system passing through so I'm tipping cold and clear conditions.

[ballaratdragons]

Winter Woolly's will be needed. :D

Yep, forecast looking good so far, but often the forecast for here says rain and we get clear sky.
Clear sky = c-c-c-cold! :cold:
The weather reports for here are actually 'Ballarat Airport' which is nowhere near here. The Airport is about 25k away. :screwy:

[Astroman]

Urk, havent used my winter woolies for ages, hope they still fit, better still, must remember to bring em :D

[ballaratdragons]

Actually, it's not looking too bad for cold temps.
Around 4 to 10 is OK :thumbsup:

Comfortable daytime temps too :)

Here's the forecast:

[Ijay]

Have thermals, will travel!

Hi Ken
I originally booked for Sat and Sun nights. Unfortunately I will have to reneg on the sunday night. Saturday and the feast is still fine.

I also gather that the Astrocamp is being held at the Crystal Lake Cabins. If so could you please confirm.

:thanx: IJ

[mill]

Yes it is at the Cristal Lake Cabins.
There will be signs to show the way :)

[ballaratdragons]

Pfft

Crystal Lake Cabins. :rolleyes:

The camp has been known as Snake Valley Camp for around 150 years, and is well known by that name, then the current owner buys it and changes it's name. :screwy:
The lake's name is actually Dawson's Dam and has been for more than 150 years.
It is marked as Dawson's Dam on every govt document and map.
He may call it whatever he wants as a business name but he is the only one. The locals, surveyors, govt, etc will always call it Dawson's Dam because that is actually it's real name.

Sorry to sidetrack :lol:
it's a bee in the bonnet of all the locals :thumbsup:

A bit like if a conglomerate bought Sydney Harbour Bridge and decided to call it 'McDonalds Overpass'.

;)

It's OK to call it 'Snake Valley Camp'. Everyone does except the owner. :thumbsup:

[Jen]

5 more sleeps :eyepop: woohoo im slowly getting all my stuff together :D

[Astroman]

LOL @ Mc Donalds Overpass... Thanks for the infor Ken, really love local history stuff and how modern age tries to change it...

See ya on Wednesday Ken :)

[Paddy]

Maybe he thought a name with Snake in it would put people off.

Is it going to be no vehicles on the observing ground again Ken? I have to say although it meant carrying gear, I found that it meant all our set-ups were closer and it made socialising while observing easier.

[ballaratdragons]

Patrick, thank you for reminding me. :)

Vehicles will be allowed onto the observing field to drop off/pick up equipment, but because of the ground being so wet underneath, vehicles will need to be parked off the observing field.

That solves all problems: drop off/pick up, socialising, and less damage to the field. :thumbsup:

Also, with the increasing number of attendees, when someone wanted to go for a drive it was becoming dangerous for them to drive in and out of the field with everyone's gear set up, tents, and cables all over the ground.

Please remove vehicles from the field after equipment drop-off. Thankyou :)

[erick]

Ahem :question: Any chance of lawn mowed (also out front where we have to park the cars) and floodlight off? :help:

[Exfso]

Looks like being a tad nippy around the "wedding tackle", I have managed to find a set of snow gear I bought 30yrs ago that I never fitted. Now it fits me like a champ, so that will be in order if it is going to be cold. Must admit I look a little like the Michelin man with it on, but it certainly keeps out the cold.:D

[ballaratdragons]

I saw them mowing on Saturday.

Light will be turned off by us. All organised :thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

:lol: It's not going to be THAT cold Pete :rofl:

Well, I hope not :P

[Jen]

:thumbsup: yes good one Eric a nice mowed grass stops jens pants from getting all wet up to my knees hehehe :P and get rid of all those dam spider webs :eyepop:

[desler]

Let's think of some idea's to keep Jens' pants dry?

One or two spring to mind!!!!!

Hahahahaha

Darren

[mill]

Huh? Socializing again?? We do that every year :P (it is like imaging M42 again and again and again) :rofl:



It'll be good Peter, that way you look the same as usual :lol:



Is Leon coming??? :rofl::rofl::eyepop:
Sorry Leon if you read this one, couldn't help myself :hi:

[Jen]

:rofl::rofl::rofl:

:question:

[Exfso]

Hey Ken, I have lost 27kg of insulation mate, I get cold now days...:eyepop:

[ballaratdragons]

and I know where that 27kg went!

It is on me :lol:

[desler]

I think I might of stolen a couple too.

Darren

[ballaratdragons]

:lol: just call us Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum :rofl:

[ballaratdragons]

Last bookings being taken now :)

Be quick if you want to get in :thumbsup:

[Astroman]

Wonder if I can reserve my spot tomorrow :D

[Octane]

Have a wonderful time, all. I've only been to one Snake Valley Astrocamp, but, it ranks up there with the best.

Great skies, great company, lots of laughs and a few sandflies.

Enjoy.

H

[Jen]

Just wondering have i booked yet :P :lol::lol::lol:


hey guess what its March :D wooohooooooo :D

My son is coming and he is getting excited too :) is there going to be some other 9 year old boys there to keep him occupied during the day :question:

see you all soon ;)

sorry your not going to be there H i will miss you :rolleyes:

[ballaratdragons]

Nope.
That's your job :poke: :P

[barx1963]

Some of us act like we're 9 years old!:lol:

[ballaratdragons]

:rofl: :family:

[Astroman]

Seeya today Ken :D For the rest of you see you on Sunday Night, should be great Weather too. :)

[ballaratdragons]

Hi Andrew, nice to have you sitting here in person watching me type this :lol:

:rofl:

[mill]

:hi::welcome: Hi Andrew.
See ya Sunday, looking forward to seeing you again:)

[danielsun]

:lol: Look forward to catching up again Andrew.;)
Well Jen, yes, It finally is March yet!!!:thumbsup::lol:
And I am really looking forward to getting back to camp. Finished work today so now I'm in holiday mode with tomorrow to pack and get ready, do the shopping load the car etc...and the critical part is the checklist making sure you don't forget anything but yet somehow every year I do. Last year was a counterweight and before that was a pillow......:rolleyes:.......

[Jen]

:lol::lol: hey i forgot my pillow that year too :rolleyes:

Well im so excited ive started getting my things together ;) my new scope is going to have its first light at Snake Valley woohoooo, i still havnt used it yet :P

Is it Friday yet :question:

:scared3:

[erick]

Pack??? Yikes! I'd better start thinking about it. What to take? Surely I can fit the kitchen sink in this year??

[Alios]

Hi Ken,
I'm sorry I left it till last minute, I'd like to see you all again. Can you please book me for 2 persons on Friday and Saturday, we'll be camping and join Saturday feast.
Thanks Alios:thanx:

[Rob_K]

Lorraine (partner) will be joining us for Sun night only - not enough stamina for the three nights! :lol: So no feast, just an extra bod on Sunday!

We're leaving in the morning (Thurs) but I won't see you all till Fri arvo. All packed and rarin' to go! :D

Cheers -

[Jen]

:D yay great stuff Alios :thumbsup:

[Cloudyagain]

A question for Ken, what is the earliest time we are able to get into the camp site tomorrow?

Thanks,

Neale.

[leon]

Have a great time guys, hope the weather is good to you all, and safe traveling for those that have to come a long way. ;)

Beautiful scope Jen, :eyepop: hope it serves you well for a long time to come, sorry I can't be there, :sadeyes: we are in West Australia at the moment. :) :)

Leon :thumbsup:

[alistairsam]

weather's looking good.

[ballaratdragons]

Booked in. Thanks Alois :thumbsup:



Thanks Rob :)



You can get into the camp site any time after midday, but the owner won't be unlocking anything until around 2pm. Campers can start setting up before this time, it's only the people in bunkhouses that will be unable to get into their rooms until 2pm.

[Roobi]

Hi Ken, sorry im so late in asking but can we just drive up for the saturday night and not camp? we'll just stay up all night, then drive home when we're ready. Will that be ok?

[Moonman]

Just entered Port Philip on the Boat. See you folks tomorrow!

[ballaratdragons]

That'll be fine :thumbsup:

will be good to catch up again :)

[erick]

Gotta Pack :scared:

And, :( I have to work tomorrow! See you near sunset. :hi:

[Jen]

:) hey girl i was just wondering when you were going to make an appearance :lol: will be good to see you there again :thumbsup::thumbsup:

Honey joys please :D:P:rofl:

[Jen]

Hey dont go pinching my spot guys :rofl::rofl::rofl:

[mill]

Hmm have to be there before Jen :wink2::wink2::ship1:

[Paul Haese]

Just out of interest Ken, how do you allocate which bunk houses belongs to which person? Pete and I should be there around 1ish I suppose, but we could be a little later. Just mindful of the mad stampede. I suppose it is still first in best dressed?:)

[Cloudyagain]

:D:D


With that great big monster you've now got you'll be spreading all over our sites. I hope it doesn't suck up all the photons for miles around. :D

Neale

[Roobi]

Easy done jen, honey joys will be coming with me as well as, fingers crossed, some mars bars crackles.
Also im bringing my buddy Deb this time, so another gal to add to the group will be good.
:)

see you all there.

[desler]

Cabin 1 will be me and Marty, if he doesn't mind sharing with Darth Vader!

As your a little averse to snorers Paul, I wouldn't suggest jumping in with us!


Darren

Ps edit. it may not be numbered #1, but the one closest to the amenities block! Those who know me know the reason!

[Hagar]

Thats just so you can sneak into the ladies. Naughty boy. Jen could be in there. I don't know who would get the biggest fright.

[mill]

I don't mind, the sound of your pump is making me sleep :P

I think when it stops, it will make me wake up. (unless i did unplug it :P ).

[Exfso]

Paul, I think Ken allocates the cabins on a first up best dressed basis, I reckon I will get the one I usually have, well I hope I do. I cant remember the number, but it is just behind the rotunda and the centre of the three cabins in that area.

[Astroman]

Off to the Airshow tomorrow.... hope you guys have a great few nights, better than what I got lastnight, still trying to acclimatise to the bloody cold weather here.... not used to it, froze my butt off this morning... finally warmed a little though. See all of you on Sunday Night :)

[Starkler]

Sorry for the very short notice, but regretfully I wont be able to make it and have to cancel.

Hope all that attend have a great time.

[barx1963]

NOOOOO!!!! don't take away an SDM!:tasdevil:

[Jen]

:screwy::screwy: Ummmmm i need a bigger car :rolleyes:

[Jen]

:lol: lol Dougie well i have frightened Darren before so i reakon he would get the biggest fright :P
:eyepop:

[danielsun]

Jen, maybe best you go shopping for a new car in the morning.:lol:

[ballaratdragons]

There is no need to rush.

All the bunkhouses have been allocated. :thumbsup:
It's not a matter of whoever is first at camp gets first pick.
It takes me ages to work all this out.


Wrong Dazza :lol:
You have cabin number 2 all to yourself :thumbsup:



OK Geoff, thanks for letting me know. Pity.
See you in November hopefully :thumbsup:

[Jen]

Well ive got the scope in but im not sure about getting the clothes in the car :rofl::rofl:

Mmmmm car shopping now i wonder what the hubby would think about that :mad: :D

[danielsun]

Ken, just wondering if I get my usual cabin with the upstairs master bedroom with en suite and balcony overlooking the lake?

[Jen]

:rofl::rofl::rofl: LMAO Daniel yeah i got the one with full frontage lake view with the spa :P

[ballaratdragons]

Yes Daniel, your usual residence is ready for you. With Martin :thumbsup:


Due to Geoff pulling out, 1 cabin has become available again.
It is a 4 berth bunkhouse :thumbsup:

[danielsun]

Cool, Thanks Ken:thumbsup:

[ballaratdragons]

The sky here tonight is absolutely stunningly clear!!!!

A hint of what is to come for the next 4 nights :)

Goodnight all, see you tomorrow :thumbsup:

I will make a 'Reports' thread for you to use on your return from camp :)
HERE: http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?p=694188#post694188

[danielsun]

Totally clouded over here in Melb at the moment!!

[barx1963]

Socked in here at Colac, but starting to break up!

Malcolm

[erick]

Damn! Still at work :sadeyes: