[yorkpf (Paul)]

Hi Julian

I was hoping there would be a structural engineer on the forum, because that is precisely the sort of advice I need.

Thanks for your suggestions so far. In reply to your 4 points (all very relevant) -

1 & 2: Body Corporate: I would seek permission - it is a pretty small unit block and a pretty small Body Corporate. My main concern is: Would weakening the column be an issue with drilling 2 or 3 holes? We are on the top floor (only 3 levels) and the column has done nearly all of its work by the time it gets to us - it's really just holding up that edge of the roof. Tell me, please, if you think I am wrong about this.

3: You are quite right about 30 kg loads - manhandling that mass would be tough. However, it is only 3 separate sets of 10 kg. First, I would instal the mount (10 kg), then the counterweights (10 kg) and finally the scope (10 kg). I think lifts of 10 kg are probably manageable?

4. It is for photography only. The scope will carry a DSLR which I will use to capture images.

Anyway, thanks for your comments so far and I look forward to your posting.

Thanks: Paul