Astronomical societies???

[mattyb217]

I am very new to astronomy & star gazing, none of my mates or anyone i know for that matter share the same interest as i do, so i thought joining a club/society would be a great idea. Any suggestion on what would be a good one to join???

I live in the northern suburbs of Melbourne

[barx1963]

Welcome to IIS Matt!
You can look at the Astronomical Society of Vic (see www.asv.org.au (http://www.asv.org.au) ) If you don't mind travelling out of town the Snake Valley Club has a easily assecible dark site. Their next camp is in November (see http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=94054&page=3 ) or their club site at http://ballaratman.wix.com/svaa

Malcolm

[mattyb217]

Great thanks Malcolm, i like the look of SVAA i have not come across them yet on the net though i have seen the ASV site & they look just a little bit to professinal.

[barx1963]

The ASV is an amatuer organisation. They have a New Astronomers group, beginners loan scopes and other benefits for new members.

SVAA is a more casual group, and certainly smaller. The twice yearly camps are well worth visiting and you do not have to be a member. You can also trot along to Friday night club nights, again no need to be a member.
There is also the Mornington peninsular astro society (MPAS see http://www.mpas.asn.au/ ) that would be worth checking out!

Malcolm

[mattyb217]

Cheers thanks again Malcolm, definatly looking for something a little bit more casual so i think i will check out the SVAA.