[Enchilada]

The Star Party began with myself, Dawes and Harrip in 1981, and myself and Wavytone in 1981 and 1982. I recall that M.Harrip and I went on the tour of the main observatories in New South Wales in 1977, and had travelled north through Coonabarabran and Narrabri. We stayed in the national parks (through lack of funds), and observed from the Warrumbungles and Mt Kaputar.
The latter proved to be the best place because of its altitude and pleasant camping grounds. The sky had excellent dark-skies and several places which allowed views of most directions of the sky and was at least protected from the wind. I returned there by myself several times between 1978-1980 observing mainly with the C8. Then Harrip joined the Air Force in Queensland. In 1981, and Dawes and me, with Harrip meet at Mt. Kaputar.
It was one trip up the mountain that we discussed have an annual Star Party here for observation. We discussed this idea with Loveday, and going to the 1982 NACAA in Brisbane, went via Mt Kaputar. Wavytone, after seeing the skies, suggested we should hold a joint these Star Party between the ASNSW and the Queensland Society's. Other societies then also joined in.
After investigation we held Star Party's in the following years (1983-1986) - and as far as I know these were the first true Star Parties in New South Wales.
It ended in 1986 with disgruntlement with the weather and the distance to get there. The concept of the ASNSW star party started around this time when some members decided to think of a site closer to home - assisted greatly be a significant bequest. This lead to 1988 when the South Pacific Star Party was created - all out of the ashes of Mt Kaputar.
Still love the place, and reminds me of my more carefree youth. If I had my way my own ashes would be scattered there - if only because it is just a very beautiful place in New South Wales.