Observing Sites Gold Coast

[Aaron]

Hi Everyone,

My name's Aaron and I've just joined today. I'm very excited to be part of such a wonderful site and I am looking forward to getting my first scope.

Over the last couple of months I've been using a planisphere and red light torch getting to know the constellations before I take the plunge to get my first scope.

I've discovered that where I live on the Gold Coast, Qld that it is difficult to locate a "Dark site."

I've also read a book called Star Ware 2nd Edition that lists helpful sites such as beaches, farmland and golf courses. However some of these places have restricted or limited access.

I'd like to hear if anyone has any suggestions as I don't mind driving to dark sites??

Cheers,
Aaron :)

[astronobob]

Hi Aaron & Welcome to IIS.

I also live on the Gold Coast Nth Half, And for a quick fix I find places the other side of Mnt Tamborine is quite suitable, Around Wonglepong and Biddaddaba Just past Canungra have some nice flat open areas for a 'side of track' site, etc.
Google Maps etc are worth looking through for better idea of the areas also !
A little further Wst and About 15mins Sth of Beaudesert is a place called Tamrookum on the Mount Lindersay Hwy, There is a Community hall at the Tamrookum Church Rd interesection which is a great spot !
Obviously the further you Go West of the GC strip the darker the skies?

I'm sure you'll have plenty of options from others also from the site ! Are you on the Sthern, Middle or North part of the GC, as there may be some options around Murwillumbah if you in the Tweed Area ?

[Aaron]

Hi Bob,

Thanks for your advice! ☺

I’m at the Northern end of the Gold Coast (Upper Coomera). I actually never thought of trying the other side of the mountain. For the last week I’ve been looking around the cane farms in Norwell, Pimpama and Jacobs Well looking for a site not to close to the road but with no success. I’ve actually tried up on the mountain also but the only places I’ve located are the tourist spots/scenic views that I think are too close to the main road.

I’ll go exploring out west once the rain goes away. I cannot wait to see a dark sky on a flat open area! ☺

Thanks once again for your help.