You don't mention where in Sydney you are. If you are anywhere near the shire there is a fantastic club there, Sutherland Astronimical Society (
www.sasi.net.au). Club meetings are generally held on Thursday nights but the club also meets at Waterfall on the third quarter and new moon Saturday nights. The club also have public open nights at different times of the year.
Without doubt the instrument of choice among our members would be Dobs. But if Green Point is too far out of your way the next best thing is a trip to Glebe. If your better half likes seafood it is a very short distance to the fish markets as a softener if you need to gain a few extra dollars permission for that must have eyepiece or collimation tool or both.
Good luck with your adventure. You've made one correct decision already by joining here.
Wayne