BRETTI RESERVE 2012: Feb

[Arthur Alchin]

Getting in a little early but that's how some folks like (or need it).

New moon is February 21st 2012 (Tuesday): anybody interested in 4days/ 3 nights at Bretti Reserve (via Gloucester) from 23rd to the 26th Feb????

Should still be nice and warm/ Very warm. Swimming is great, 2 freshwater streams! Only facility is "drop toilets" and garbage service but we take portable showers, generators for power and other gear. The place is FREE (always a big bonus). You will need your own camping gear/ RV or Caravan, food and drinks.

There is no shortage of space (the ground is good for vans and mobile homes). Have i left anything out fellars??? This is a place we have visited a few times now.

Will keep the thread open and you can contact me: Arthur on 0411438858 for any further info. This is an open event, not an organised one so everyone goes there independently to have fun, enjoy the company and view/ image some great night skies (and have fun during the day time as well)

[Allan_L]

Date noted with interest. :thumbsup:

The only thing You forgot to add ...
the best dark skies within 250k of Sydney!

Oh and ...great company

[Arthur Alchin]

I stand corrected, thankyou;) And really great company!!!!!

[jakob]

:D
Its in my diary!

[Arthur Alchin]

Great to hear from u Jacob. Hope u can make it

[Arthur Alchin]

Great to hear from u Jacob. Hope u can make it

[Inmykombi]

Sounds great to me.

It'll be hot....so I prescribe plenty of liquids while up there.:D

[Arthur Alchin]

Might take the inflatabe boat and fishing rod this time and a mower

[Inmykombi]

Sounds like standard equipment for your Tardis trailer....
I am amazed what you fit into that thing....
Dont forget the mini bike.;)

Geoffro

[Arthur Alchin]

Ok

[Shano592]

This sounds like it might be worth the trip. Here's hoping that Ms La Nina takes her weather and nicks off before then.

Gotta get some viewing in this summer.

[MortonH]

Silly question: If this is a free, public campsite, how do you know it won't be full of "idiots" with bright lights???

[Shano592]

I'll bring my slingshot and a bag of marbles. Then it'll be nice & dark!

:lol:

[Allan_L]

Yes, it is a free camp site. Maximum allowed stay is 30 days, so no permanents.
We have been there about five times before.
Some times of year they say it is full, but mainly around summer holidays and long weekends.
There are always other campers, but it is normal for most to go to bed before 10 and usually turn off lights.
There are not many attractions (pit toilets).
And its 32 kilometres from the nearest town.

Yes, it is possible, but we have been lucky so far.

The bigger "danger" is the horses and cattle sometimes put out to graze by the adjoining land owner. So, Watch where you step!

[Arthur Alchin]

Thought if might be a good idea to maybe take a small role of builders plastic just in case, could set it up like a fence if necessary although we can always do as usual and put the tents and vans between the light (if any) and us.

[MortonH]

Hmm, I have no camping gear, RV, or anything other of the requirements, but I do have in-laws living near Toronto on Lake Macquarie. Maybe I just stay overnight in the car and drive 'home' during the day.

Anyone know how long it would take to drive from Toronto to the reserve?

Cheers

Morton

[Arthur Alchin]

Hey Morton
If you contact me closer to the time i can probably throw in a spare tent that i have but you would need your esky for food/ drinks etc. Probably an air mattress woundn't go astray.

I have adequate "cooking gear" (gas burners, BBQ, Kettles, saucepans etc) to get by. Only other thing you would need is clothing, food drinks and bedding. Don't forget the :eyepop: PILLOW!!! :eyepop:it can make a good camping weekend into a lousy one.

Gloucester shops are about 25kms away and not bad shops at that. Often find a car load goes into town each day for something or rather.

The group usually has at least one generator (sine wave) going all day for charging of batteries and running fridges etc.

[MortonH]

Thanks, Arthur. Starting to sound promising!

[Allan_L]

In response to your question: I reckon 2 hours from Toronto to Bretti Reserve, without rushing.
Maybe 2 and a half if you drive very conservatively.

In relation to Arthur's offer, I have an air mattress I can lend you.

Hope to see you there.

[MortonH]

Excellent. Thanks!!

[Arthur Alchin]

Aha: Where art thou Rick, Geoff (the owl), Geoff Filter, Deanno, Patrick, Andrew, Carly and Michael. Is there anyone i have forgotten?

Would llove to see some new faces also, you are all so welcome
:welcome:

[Zincberg]

Hi Arthur,
I doubt Ill be able to make Bretti..Bad timing for me...also, Its a beautiful area, but not really my cup of tea.
Andrew

[vic4loc]

Also noted this date as an expression of interest, will have definite decision closer to the date.

Is this Bretti Nature Reserve, Baxters Ridge shown on Google map? anybody has a more detailed map?

Victor.

[gmbfilter]

Might be able to make it
The kit i bought to rebuild the 18" has arrived and should be ready
I a definite may be

[Rick Petrie]

I'm a maybe definite too.:rolleyes:
Will watch the weather closely getting nearer to.

[Arthur Alchin]

Hi Victor
if u have google earth on your computer and type in Bretti nsw in the search it shows exactly where it is. The actual gate to the reserve is on Thunderbolt Way (road)

[Deeno]

Hey Arthur

Might be a good opportunity to get away. Will see if I can sneek away closer to the date.

Merry Christmas
Deeno

[Arthur Alchin]

If i am going to take the inflatable boat (a 12 footer) i might need help getting the mini bike there if anyone has any spare space. ;)

[Inmykombi]

The dates are now in my Diary.

WooooHoooo.

I wont have any room in my Van for a mini Bike, but hopefully someone with a trailer will be able to help by taking it up for the weekend.

Looking forward to all the regular crowd, plus whoever else wants to make the journey.

Geoffro.

[Inmykombi]

Just spent my Christmas gift Voucher at Rays outdoor world.
Bought some new stuff for camping.

Now I have enough camping gadgets to sink a ship.

Really looking forward to getting together and having some fun.
I am already sick of work and its only the start of the year....

[Arthur Alchin]

Just bought a 9kg gas bottle and holder for the front of the trailer (should be really adequate for 4 days cooking and water heating if necessary).

Does anybody weld and have a welder. I just need to get the Bottle holder welded to the front of the trailer before i take off, it's only 2 small brackets that need welding ( it's galvanised steel). I'll pay to have it done.

[Inmykombi]

Sorry Arthur, I dont have a welder and its been 30 yrs since I have done any welding. So I couldnt weld to save my life.

Geoffro.

[Arthur Alchin]

Thanks Geoff a friend from Wyoming came over this morning and did it, now there is more room in the tardus:-):eyepop:

[Inmykombi]

That trailer is a never ending expanse. :P

[Arthur Alchin]

Nearly lost the thread off the bottom of the page :lol: all is getting closer might have toput an extra plea out for Mr Owl, we need you! Where r u? :shrug:

[GTB_an_Owl]

the Owl is ever watching

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

Oh Geoff, great to hear from you, hope you are keeping well.

Same as before if you want to go in Feb and Transport is an issue drop me a PM and i'll arrange something with you.

The TARDIS Trailer (Time And Relative Dimension In Space) has ever expanding capabilities. (Even if Mr Owl has to go on the roof bars)

[Inmykombi]

My Advice is never sleep in Arthur's TARDIS trailer .... You may end up in another dimension. :eyepop:

[Rick Petrie]

What....and miss the experience of an 'asymmetrical erection'.;)

[Allan_L]

Rick, buddy, that has to be one of the best lines this ever.
...and your award winning photo to proove it

:eyepop: :lol: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :lol: :eyepop:

[AndyK]

Rats!
We would love to get to Bretti.
Unfortunately this is just a couple of days before we're due to leave on a big overseas trip and it would be pushing things too far.
Maybe there'll be another Bretti adventure in Winter?

[Arthur Alchin]

In my opinion (if it is worth much that is) we will definitely be having more returns to Bretti. We havent mentioned the WINTER one as yet: this one i great but takes committment due to the cold, we still have a great time

[Allan_L]

... and a roaring great camp fire! :hi:

[Inmykombi]

Winter trips to Bretti are really a load of fun.

Cold weather / clear skies....Oh and yes the minus 4 temps., but don't let that put you off.
It was lovely during the day.

[Arthur Alchin]

Now Allan and Geoff is it to be July or August this year? Will leave it up to someone else to start the thread in a couple of months for that one.

What would we do without central heating in our tents and sleeping bags ratef at -6

[Allan_L]

I think I might miss that one :sadeyes:
Plan to be doing the Big Aussie circuit about then.
Probably be a bit more difficult to "call in on way past" like last year. ;)
We'll See.

Can we have it around April or May?

[Inmykombi]

I am OK with April or May.

[vic4loc]

I would be interested in a April/May gathering too. Currently the Feb trip is looking a bit uncertain for me due to upcoming work commitments.

Victor.

[Allan_L]

I am in: Rain Hail or Fine!
This weather is getting to me.
Really need to get out and do something.
Wellingtons, Mackintosh, Damp wood burning, and Charlotte ...
Can't hardly wait.

Bump!

[jakob]

I feel the same! Can't wait.

[gb_astro]

I can just see all of you guys escaping from that place in Arthur's inflatable boat!!

:):):)

Greg.

[Rick Petrie]

You could only 'see' it Greg if you were there.:P
Or we could use your big wooden dob as a raft Greg. :lol:
If it clears Greg, it would be good to see you there though.;)

[gb_astro]

Thanks Rick, I might be able to make the Saturday.

Greg.

[Shano592]

April ... as an alternative to SPSP perhaps?

[Arthur Alchin]

Yep they (April/ May) sound like a goer to me (unless Deb has something planned).

You won''t see me at the Ilford event, I'm not that much into crowds for holiday weekends (Lostock is about my size limit). Although i will make an exception if i ever get to the "big one" in Texas.;)

And YES Greg it would be great to see you at one for the weekend. Are either of those months over school hols??

[Arthur Alchin]

13 sleeps to go and we are on our way again to a wonderful weekwnd away.

Anyone with any special requests or questions its probably not a bad time to put them forward

[Rick Petrie]

Just three nights of pristine dark sky wouldn't be too much to ask ..would it? :P

[Shano592]

Just one without a bl##dy full moon in it would be good!

[Allan_L]

I've given up on hoping the weather will improve. :shrug:
Just a couple of nights camping with my buddies will do me. :hi:
Any sucker holes will be a bonus. :thumbsup:
13 sleeps ;)
:campfire::cheers::gday:

[Arthur Alchin]

That can be guaranteed Shane! It's the no Bl#$%y Clouds we can't guarantee.

[Arthur Alchin]

Hey Morton you still there????

If so do you need me to chuck in the spare tent??? It's not the most expensive one but it is honest and keeps you dry or it did last time i used it. (have only used it 2-3 times since new)

[Shano592]

I know!

But it seems that the only clear nights lately coincide with the big night light being switched on.

[Inmykombi]

Unless its realling Pissisting down I will be there.
A few clouds wont stop me from having a nice break.
Of course cloud free would be great, but I need a break.

Twin servos at 8-8.30 for a 9am departure is it ?
Regular stop off at Glouscester for supplies of the liquid nature I guess as well.

Does anyone know if we can have a campfire there at this time of year ?
We may not need one if its hot, but it would be good to be able to boil the billy and cook over an open fire again.

[Arthur Alchin]

I have, this minute spoken to Gloucester Shire Council and there is definitely "NO RESTRICTION ON SETTING CAMP FIRES".

The final comment made was "good luck finding some dry wood" hehehe.

[Arthur Alchin]

Yep 6 sleeps and counting down. Dont forget Channel 8 uhf cb if you have one and cq for the "iceinspacers"

[Allan_L]

I have two boxes of good dry wood.
Probably enough for one night.
I'll throw that in the back of the van.
Its just taking up space in my garage anyway.

[Inmykombi]

We can always buy some firewood on the way.
Mozzies seem to be out in force around here, so bring the Aeroguard in case they are there as well....

[jakob]

Can't wait! :hi::hi::hi:

[Arthur Alchin]

One spare seat in the CRV (free) witk your name on it if u want it. We can always accommodate your gear between us all in the vehicles.

[Rick Petrie]

Last look at the seven day forecast seems to indicate that the weather may be reasonably OK. Let's hope so anyway!
On the Mr Owl issue.....you know you want to come and we CAN accommodate you so don't feel bad about it OK. Right now, that's settled that. Here's the way.
1. No need to bring your car. | Mine or Arthur's available.
2. No need to bring the asymmetric tent. | My caravan annexe is available.
3. Scope and stuff. | BYO in my van or use ours.
4. Food and drink. | You may want to bring some.

As you can see, we want you there. :thumbsup: You've just won Lotto. ;)

[GTB_an_Owl]

sorry guys

i would love to go BUT

lots of expenses at the moment and car is due for rego
need to get some work done on it to get it registered next month

geoff

[Arthur Alchin]

We are the ones who are sorry because we will miss your presence. Maybe next trip
:confused2:

[Inmykombi]

Sad to hear that you wont be there Mr Owl.
It wont be the same without your....bellowing.............um I mean
friendly chatting.....;)

Anyway, all the best buddy 'till next time. Take care....

[Allan_L]

YES! We will miss you Geoff.
Hope all goes well and we will catch up again soon. :hi:
2 sleeps!

Latest weather forcast is clear Thurs to Sunday :)

[Inmykombi]

Woooohoooo. Just looked on some weather sites and it does look encouraging.

[Rick Petrie]

Yep to all the above.............................. ....?

[Inmykombi]

Does anyone have any firewood ? Or should I just try and buy some ?

I can taste the damper already....

[Allan_L]

as mentioned earlier, i will be bringing two boxes of good DRY hardwood.
But that should account for only one night (or two if economical :P)

[Inmykombi]

I'll need to buy more for the other nights.
We gotta keep the billy boilin'.

I'll see if I can get some locally, or if not, on the way up there.

[Inmykombi]

Almost fully packed for a quick getaway.
See you all at the twin servo's in the morning.

I wonder what I have forgotten ????
It wouldnt be a camping trip if I didnt forget something !

[gb_astro]

I was thinking of going up Saturday but 7Timer is now showing
mostly cloud for that day so I will probably opt out.
(Anyone got a better forecast??)

Thursday is looking good for you guys though.

Greg.

[Rick Petrie]

Yes Greg......Thursday and Friday night looking like crackers.
Can you make Friday night?:question:

[Allan_L]

greg,
we would love to have you there... whatever the weather.
but unfortunately, my weather source now agrees with you.
however, by the amount it has changed in the last 48 hours,
Saturday may end up being OK.
But i would not count on it.

We are going determined to have a good time, and if the weather permits astronomic pursuits, then that will be a bonus.

For most of us, it is all about having a break, away, with our mates.
Would love for you to join us, but I understand if this is not practical for you.

Just about to start packing. :shrug:

[Deeno]

Happy travels and clear skies:driving:

[Inmykombi]

Thx Deeno,
Maybe see you next time .

[Allan_L]

OK.
All Packed.
Well, all but cold stuff...
now to try to get some sleep :zzz:

[Rick Petrie]

Thanks Deeno maybe next time.
Just about to walk out the door. Come on dark skies.
Yes it would be good to see you Greg if you can manage.

[Allan_L]

WooHoo!
What a great trip.
Thanks to everyone who came and made it such a great time.
and thanks to the weather gods for smiling on Bretti all the time we were there.
None of that dreaded rain, that was predicted.
Nice clear nights thursday and Friday.
Brilliant "swimming" weather every day.
although Saturday night was intermittent haze, it proved a good backdrop to "the party" and eyeball astronomy was the go.

Thanks Looking forward to next time. :thumbsup:

[Inmykombi]

Ditto to Allan's comments.

Very nice observing for 2 nights.
The Creek was a great way to cool off every day. Clear clean fresh water is lovely to swim in.
Good company, and even a "newbie" Chris and Family came along to share the good times.
Love that 12 inch Go-to Dob Chris. Look after it mate, its a beauty.
Thx for the Rum too Arthur.
Thanks to all who made it another special trip.

[Rick Petrie]

Yes it was a pleasure to be under nice dark skies and getting two spectacular nights in a row.(Thursday and Friday)
Well worth the travel and great to meet Chris and family.
It was worth it just for the Apple Charlotte. (thanks Al) and thanks to all for good company as usual.
Included a few snaps of the trip below.
1. Panorama of the area
2.Jakob's motor home
3.Al's motor home
4.Geoff's van home
5.Arthur's castle
6.Rick's rack
7.Upper Manning River
8.Pan 'O' Vision or(delusions of grandeur) Gold...what were they thinking?
Here's to the next one.:thumbsup:

[jakob]

Nice pics, Rick.

Thanks to all the participants to make it the break we all needed.

Attache is the view of the Sky before I went to bed Saturday night!
Still a few stars visible:D

[Mcredgum]

We had a great time in Bretti, it was good to meet everyone, thanks again for all your help and advice, loved the dark sky and the river was a bonus in the day too. Looking forward to next time.

[Inmykombi]

Just watch out for those Wild Dogs or Yowie's, whatever they were that stole my food....:eyepop: