Hi Marko,
Welcome to IceInSpace
It is (currently) free to come along and join us at the Mangrove Mountain site (at the Pony Club).
It is crown land under lease to the Pony Club, but we are allowed free use of it at night.
It is a secure site, with a locked gate, so you will need to come on an advertised night (see the Star Parties.... forum for dates and directions).
I believe the Katoomba sessions may ask for a small donation.
hope to see you soon!
PS: yes it is always safer to observe with a friend, preferably someone you can outrun!
)
PPS: I have a set of Orion 9x63 that I think are great, but they are heavy (Orion Mini Giants), and I find a tripod essential.
I use a video camera Ball Head Tripod, but a standard camera tripod will do.
Alternatively, a broom (inverted) is also a good cheap start.
PPPS:
This is what Omega Centauri (NGC5139) may look like through a set of 10x50 binos (courtesy of
www.binocularsky.com)