[rider]

Regarding Photography,
I don't do astrophotography so cant give you a definitive answer, But the mount holds a "drift" star in the cross-hairs satisfactorily and the 8" scope/eq5 is used by a number of IIS members for this purpose.

I would guess that it is a good short exposure package for someone wishing to learn this skill, but is obviously not of the precision that an expensive guided scope would have.

Freight to Melbourne depends on the method, but would be expensive due to the weight and bulk. I will attempt to weigh it if you if you are interested. feight companies will provide quotes based on weight and size.

For ultimate security "Pack and Send" will mold a foam shape around the scope, but it is probably cheaper to send it with regular freight companies and just insure it against damage.