Bretti Weekend 28th Apr to 1st May

[Arthur Alchin]

As per the old thread which has now disappeared into the Abyss, Just a reminder that Bretti could be an interesting spot to spend a four day weekend leading up to the May New moon.

I will be heading up on the 28th April and staying till the sunday. (will be sitting on CB UHF channel 8)

If anyone is interested you will need your camping gear, food and drinks. The spot is free and offers beautiful skies (assuming it isn't raining). I will also have a inverter generator for battery charging and laptops. there is plenty of space for vans and RVs.

This spot is about 30kms up the "Thunderbolt Way" from Gloucester and can be found on both "Google Earth" and some GPSs.

There are 2 freshwater rivers running through the camping area and pit toilets are available, there are no other amenities. I usually carry an electric shower for those in need (or take your own)

[Inmykombi]

I am drooling already, I'll check the work schedule and keep you posted.
I need a break to as work is crazy at present.

[Rhino1980]

Hey fellas I'm still keen, work depending, plus we should get the keys to our new home very close to that so it all depends.

[Inmykombi]

Work is still Madness for me at present, so I will be needing a break by then for sure Arthur....

The thought of a nice campfire, bacon and eggs cooking on the camp stove, and a few warming beverages mixed with a dark sky and a gazzillion stars, may be just the medicine I need.

It'd be good to catch up Ryan, and see through that 10 inch Black Diamond again.

geoffro

[Deeno]

This is looking good for me.
Hopefully spend all four days!

[Allan_L]

Hey Deeno,
does your Avitar indicate that you have a new toy? :eyepop:

Sorry I can't make Bretti this time (but I still hold out hope that I can just "happen by" during the course of the festivities. ;)

[Rick Petrie]

I should be able to acrue enough brownies and get a leave pass for this one too.
I think I'll rough it in the caravan.:P

[Allan_L]

Quite Reasonable too!
You wouldn't want the tyres to develop a flat spot from too little use?

Hey Ric,
Wanna come to Flinders ranges?
Should be dark skies there :question:
And the caravan could do with a decent run
(and I don't have FOX on the Run)

[Rick Petrie]

:rundog::lol:

[Inmykombi]

I look forward to catching up Deeno.

Last time we went there in Winter we had a great Campfire all day and great dark sky observing at night.
Although I did call it quits after everyone else went to bed one night and the temp. got down to below zero. Brrrrrr.
Thank goodness for Mr. Owls Freezer Suits...

[Mars]

Hey guys, I'm currently considering taking up the offer to come to Bretti (assuming camping goes well at the SPSP).

However I'm trying to decide on a tent that would cover me for the SPSP, possible Bretti trips and/or other things as well.

I’ve looked at tents that are small and portable (basically just enough room to crawl in with a sleeping bag) and others which are large enough to stand up inside. I really love the luxury factor of the larger tents but wondering if it’s worth the extra hassle of setup and transporting.

What sort of tents do you guys have and/or might recommend?
On a typical trip, or at the SPSP, would you spend much time in the tent? What about during the day? Or if it’s raining? Is space constrained?

[Allan_L]

Hi Mars,
For my first trip to SPSP I considered the same things.
Ease to set up.
Big enough to spend time in if needed (and it was, very)
comfortable WARM dry.

In the end I bought a "camper trailer". (You know, with a tent on top of a box trailer).
I got the smallest one they had (two person) and boy was it a good investment,
For under $3,000 brand new drive away I got a queen size bed, up off the ground, very comfortable and warm.
A full size (zip on off) annex (no walls just roof).
AND a brand new box trailer that can be packed with all camping essentials with heaps of room.
Seconds to set up ready to sleep in (add 15 minutes if annex to be set up too).

Mate, it is definitely the way to go. (Bigger sizes and off road available for extra bucks, but the small was was plenty big enough for me)

As you know I upgraded to a camper van now -> this was mainly to get on board shower toilet and fridge etc. I still loved the tent on a trailer.
Al

[Mars]

Thanks Allan.

You’ve definitely got the ideal setup. The camper trailer idea is nice but unfortunately not really practical for me at the moment (amongst others, apparently my car does not have a tow bar).

I’m still tossing up between the smaller and larger tents. The costs are actually quite similar but the setup will be a bit more involving on my own and of course car space will be at a premium. I’m literally trying to work out every item that will go into my car, where I’ll put it and whether it’ll fit. Of course this is very difficult to visualise!

Oh well, got to decide by tomorrow because that’s when I’ll be buying my gear.

[Mars]

I decided to go with a more conservatively sized Kathmandu 2 person camping tent (for practicality) and a blow up mattress (compacts smaller than a self inflating mattress and is should be more comfortable too).

In summary, if SPSP goes well, I'll definitely try to make it to Bretti.

[Arthur Alchin]

hey Patrick
If it's for Bretti I have a spare tent in the trailer that will be going up with me if you want to use it, might save you some space. It is a 4 person dome tent, was only going to take it for storage space

[Allan_L]

Too late Arthur, he has already bought himself a new tent. :hi:

[Mars]

Yeah, thanks anyway Arthur :) Got myself a new tent and a nice warm sleeping bag so should be set.

Looks like we’re going to get some good views of the planets during Bretti.
Saturn will be up all evening in the West until about 4AM and then after that Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter along with a tiny crescent moon will rise in the East by around 5:30AM (attached a pic).

[Inmykombi]

Thanx Patrick.
That conjunction looks like a good treat for the All nighters amongst us....

[Mars]

Hey this came up in conversation today.
What exactly do you guys do at Bretti during the day? (apart from I guess, sleep :))

[Allan_L]

Funny! I don't ever remember sleeping (or seeing anyone sleeping) during daylight hours there.

The fun never ends,
solar observations
Platypus sightings
Firewood collecting
firewood chopping
firewood burning
collecting water for shower
Frisbee throwing
then it would be breakfast time
Wild water rapids riding
beer o'clock ;)

did i forget anything arthur
( i did not actually see the 4 wheel drive mountain climbing exhibition)

[Arthur Alchin]

where were you for the 4wd mountain climb?. If i can fix the minibike between now and then i will take it also.

We also joke around and fix things and build electronic things and play with generators and computers and do some photographing. Might even all go into gloucester for a hot breakie at that new cafe (probably all fit in 1 or 2 cars)

[Rick Petrie]

Sounds like not much to do!!!!:P

[Inmykombi]

Also:
Throwing boomerangs
tweeking scopes
boiling the billy
snoozing next to a nice fire
trying to get the chainsaw started
find fuel for the chainsaw
listen to the running water of the creeks merging
reading space mags
solving the worlds problems
watching for and listening to aircraft on the scanner
Solar observing
playing your favourite music

And then its nearly lunchtime....:lol:

more of the same after lunch....

[Arthur Alchin]

Come on Jacob: where are you?????? we are missing your comments here!!!! Are we going to have the pleasure of your company on this one??????

And Geoff (the owl) and Geoff-filter and Greg_Astro and others

[GTB_an_Owl]

i am hoping like mad to be able to come
i have a little problem in that i will have to cut short my stay in coffs to be able to come

but we will see

geoff

[Allan_L]

Gonna miss you guys!
Have a great time at Wiruna.
Wish I was with you.

Hoping to get to Bretti for next new moon with Arthur.
This will be when we are heading for home from our long trip.
I will suggest a stop over at Bretti for a couple of nights!
Remember to act surprised to see us - by coincidence

Just need to work out a way so that Bretti is on the way home from South Australia :P

[Arthur Alchin]

Mums the word Allan

[Inmykombi]

Looks like I wont make it to Bretti unless I can plan things a bit better.

With Easter Friday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day Tuesday, I will only be working one day that week ( Wednesday ) then Bretti would be the Thursday, Friday, Sat + Sun.
Sorry Guys, but I dont think I can push my work back that far.
I will try though.
If I can get some jobs done on the Public Hoidays, I may be able to come along, but it depends on the work loads.

Geoffro

[Arthur Alchin]

Oh No Jethro!!!!! try not to pyke on this one (but we understand if you have to)

[Arthur Alchin]

count down to " roughing it at Bretti" weekend.

Date: 28th April

Meeting Place: for those travelling North from Sydney/ Central coast The Wyong Twin Servos at 830 onwards with plans to move on @ 0915hrs.

Destination: Bretti Reserve, The Thunderbolt Way (30 kms west of Gloucester (31 deg 47.608 S; 151 deg 54.947 E).

What to take: Everything you need (the spot offers level ground, fresh water river and pit toilets). Some of us take lots of stuff so don't despair if you leave home and have accidentally forgotten something (except grog). Gloucester has a nice little shopping centre for last minute extras you may need.

How long: You can stay there for up to a month for nothing but most of us will return home on the sunday or monday.

???Head count: Me

Contact: For any info etc feel free to ring: Arthur 0411438858.

Addit: for those with UHF CB's we travel on channel 8.

[sally1jack]

Mars, have you ever seen that movie Brokeback Mountain:P:rofl:
Just kidding guys, you'll have a great time it a great spot
phil

[Inmykombi]

Hi Phil and Mars.

Phil, if your 18 incher goes away top Bretti, I'll have to make an effort to get a squiz at the eyepiece.

Geoffro.

[Deeno]

Yehaa!
This is looking good for me at the moment.
Won't make the 8.30 meeting at the twin servos though...

Might even bring the dog....

[Rodstar]

I had been thinking I might try to make it this month to Bretti, but there is just too much on with the family at the moment. Perhaps later in the year?? Hope you all have a fabulous time!

[Rick Petrie]

Well then Geoffro.....there's no other option than to plan things better mate.:P
Looking forward to it!:thumbsup:

[Inmykombi]

I am ready to tear my hair out with work at present .:P

A break may be just what the doctor ordred you know....

Work plan is looking good at present, and I really hope it works out for me to go....I am hangin out for a campfire and some good company from all of you that will be at Bretti.

Whats the long range forecast ????

[Rick Petrie]

The forecast will be something like....
Clear heads for most of the time however there will be the occasional heavy downpour of amber fluid and naturally followed by the usual 'drizzle'.
There should be some cloud over whether we should go fishing or swimming and intermittent showers after a sweaty bushwalk.
All in all, hopefully there won't be too much 'wind'.:P

[sfrost]

I would like to do the Bretti camping thing next time perhaps. I would like to buy a Freezer suit too... I think Geoff is organising it ?

On that weekend I am taking a lovely young lady on a motorbike ride .... someone has to do it :D

Steve

[GTB_an_Owl]

just put the 7Timer 7 day forecast on my weather site for Bretti

NOT looking good at the moment.
, unless you think along the lines of "it's gotta clear sometime"

http://weather.gtbastrowise.com.au/index.php/7timer-bretti

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Not like you to be a bit negative there Mr Owl????
Thurs,Fri and Sat night not up yet though Geoff.
Fair way off but....
But it will clear......won't it?????:rolleyes:

[GTB_an_Owl]

probably

geoff

[Inmykombi]

I am making a commitment here folks.
I am going. I cant miss out on a " Gathering of the Clan " at Bretti again.

Gotta get a break from work.

Rgds.

Geoffro.

[GTB_an_Owl]

anybody want to go halves in 2 cases of tooheys stubbies ?

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Just buy one!:P

[GTB_an_Owl]

too dear Rick, to buy just one

would take me ages to drink two cases

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

:rofl: They don't call him the wise ol' Owl for nothing.

[xstream]

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: Can't be the same Owl I know! :P

[GTB_an_Owl]

now you know i don't drink alone John, and 2 cases over 2 1/2 days is a bit much - even for me

by the way - where abouts are you pair now ?

geoff

[xstream]

I'm sure Rick or someone would be your partner. :P

Back in Emerald since Thursday last week.

[Inmykombi]

Hi all,

If ( and I stress IF ) I am reading 7 timer correctly, it looks like Friday and Saturday nights will be clear.

I have never looked at 7 timer before, and I would be greatful if anyone could confirm my reading....:confused2:

Geoffro.

[GTB_an_Owl]

yes - looking good Geoffro

might be a bit dewy - but the weather is looking promising overall

geoff

[Inmykombi]

Thx Geoff, I must be looking at it the correct way after all.

Cheers mate.

[Inmykombi]

I had a text message from Alan L last night, and he said that he was looking forward to catching up with us at Bretti on his way back from South Australia.

He asked me to post his intentions to call in at Bretti, as he has no computer to check IIS while away.

4 sleeps to go....:thumbsup:

PS....

We are "supposed " to be surprised to see Alan and Jo when they pop in for a visit.

[GTB_an_Owl]

Roll Call !

who is packed allready ?

i have spent half a fortune i don't have allready - and there are two days to go !

couple of new poles (look out Geoff - stay in front of me), rubber mats, new frypan and saucepan, collapsible water bottles, to name just a few

wait till you see my new dew heater/fan control box

weather looking mixed - but that's ok

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Yes:thumbsup:

[Arthur Alchin]

Back from tassie tomorrow pack wednesday

[Inmykombi]

I am in........:D

[Deeno]

Maybe......
With all this rain I'm thinking twice about driving onto a soggy paddock I may not be able to get out of.
Even if it stopped raining now, it would doubtful things would dry out much by Thursday.

[GTB_an_Owl]

i don't think it would be too bad up there deeno

geoff

[Inmykombi]

Deeno, The drainage is pretty good there. There are harder bits of ground to pick for a stable campsite that would be OK.:thumbsup:

Dont worry too much, there will be plenty of help with us there if things get a bit tricky.
We would be glad to have your company....

[Deeno]

I gave tourist information centre a buzz today and Karen informed me they haven't had to much rain. The only complaint the Easter campers had was that the grass is really long at the moment.

So, fingers crossed for clear skies......

[GTB_an_Owl]

at the moment - i reckon 2 out of 3 we will get

7timer is changing like the weather daily - but i have faith

Arthur will probably have his whisper snisper in his cart

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Are there any free ranging cows up there?
Might need a lawnmooer.:P

[Inmykombi]

I am sure Arthur will have something for the long grass in his pandoras box trailer.

Oh and Arthur....just a reminder to bring the little mini bike for us big kids too....:D

[Deeno]

Used to be but.........
The drop bears killed them all.......:question:

[GTB_an_Owl]

i think trail bikes are banned Geoffro

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

Sorry Geoff with all the activities of late haven't had a chance to get a new spring so will have to give it a miss this time but i will have the weedeater just in case

[GTB_an_Owl]

Well - we have to go now Rick - no matter what the weather will be

I've bought the beer

geoff

[Inmykombi]

I have the Rum too. :D
I have my bush oven too.... to try and cook a small roast beef....That'll be fun:P

Almost have the car packed ready for an early departure.

[GTB_an_Owl]

yep - i almost packed
food box and clothes to do and just a few odds and ends

wonder what i will forget?

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

PS:

i think we will be doing a lot of scope maintenance

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

Almost packed, except the beeeeeeer.
But that shouldn't be a problem because Geoff's got plenty I hear.;)

[Rick Petrie]

Ahh....who who who will be doing your maintenance?
I think we're all high maintenance though, aren't we, and who who who will be doing that????:shrug:

[Inmykombi]

Arthur. Bring the kite again too.

I'll bring a boomerang as well.

[GTB_an_Owl]

make sure you bring the waterproof versions

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

anyone heard jacobs intentions ?

geoff

[GTB_an_Owl]

Deeno
i have a size 11 and a size 12 for you to try on

geoff

[Rick Petrie]

That sounds good, I might go fly my kite as well. Dunno about a boomerang though, mine never come back.

[Mars]

Hey guys, hope you have fun. I was thinking about going but it looks like I won't be able to. Seems I have too many things on during those days that I can't miss. Enjoy yourselves! Hope the weather is good.

[GTB_an_Owl]

i ready

geoff

[jakob]

Don't look too good for me.:(
May be tomorrow.
Have fun guys!

[jakob]

How was it? :question:
Sorry I couldn't make it.

[GTB_an_Owl]

fun camping weekend Jacob

lots of leisure time spent under the tarps hiding from the rain and drizzle

we did get some stars on the Sat nite - but intermittent cloud sent us back to the campfire about 10 pm

not the best weekend weatherwise to go stargazing

geoff

[Inmykombi]

Still a fun weekend despite having to wear the " gummies" all weekend.
Plenty of yarns and laughs.

Thanks to all for your company and to Rick for the space in his annexe for me to throw out a mattress onto.

looking forward to the next one.

Geoffro.

[Allan_L]

thanks guys for a great couple of days camping.
especially
Thanks Geoff for bringing the spare mount. (shame it didn't fit)
Thanks Arthur for the ride into Gloucester ...and back :)
Thanks Rick for the first taste of real footy in five weeks (:( even though we got toosh whacked)
thanks arthur for lend of your camera mount

Had a good view of saturn and Eta Carina before dew got me)

sorry you couldn't make it Jacob

[Deeno]

Nice spot to go campng. Shame the weather didn't play nice to do some serious observing as the sky looked really dark. Only managed half a popular sky tour through the Argo. Still hanging out to spend some quality time under a dark sky.

Oh well, still good to get away and test the camper trailers water proofing caperbilities. Plenty of time to do some reading and the BS around the camp fire was of a very fine quality indeed!

Jack (The Astro Dog) had just the best time, is still talking about and ready to go again.

Thanks guys
Deeno

[Rick Petrie]

Thanks for posting those photos Deeno, shows just what a nice country outlook is all about.
Enjoyed plenty of quality time with the gang from the PC, although not much time spent observing due to the inclement weather. However there was much 'drizzle' (BS) around the campfire as all have said.
We got some time under the stars however, and the skies are really quite dark and showed plenty of potential given some fine weather.
Will definitely do it again sometime down the track.
Highlight of the weekend was Deeno doing a mud slide down an embankment after procuring the above photos and saving his camera in the process.
Enjoyable time I think was had by all particularly Jack the 'astro' come (hydro) dog.
Cheers
Rickapoodyandafandoogally:thumbsup:

[jakob]

Thanks for the report and photos.
I would have loved to join in.
Better luck next time.
J.

[Rhino1980]

Sounds like you fellas had some fun despite some not so great weather. Sorry I didn't make it, I lost my dear old Nan on the Thursday morning and had to travel to Ballina to help with arrangements and attend the funeral. Maybe next time.

[Inmykombi]

So Sorry to hear about your Nan Ryan, That sad news indeed.
I hope all went well with proceedings etc.

There is another weekend coming up ( see Arthurs Thread for July )

Blow the dust off that 10 inch Monster Newt. and wee will see ya there hey ?

[Rhino1980]

Hey thanks Geoff. We had a nice service for her, a fitting tribute to a life lived well.

I am so keen to get the dust cover off this thing, if only life would cooperate!!!

[Arthur Alchin]

Hi Ryan, sorry to hear about your Nan, my thoughts are with you.

Yeah, as Geoff said we have another weekend for the end of July, i have started another thread. We would love to see you there and that wonderful scope you have.

I don't know you may even have a short cup to there from where you live. It is a great spot. I can almost wager my b**ls on it that it will be cold but if the sky is cloudless it will be spectacular.

[Rhino1980]

Thanks Arthur. Hoping to make July, got a new swag to try too! Not too far of a trip to there, we used to go past on the way to Armidale so you can sit on Mach 1 between Nowendoc and Walcha lol.