Good on you Mike, I'm sure you will enjoy your new position and new opportunities.
That 14 hour flight from Sydney to LA/San Fran. will be a bit daunting the first time but you will enjoy it. It is hard to sleep but try to get some as you will feel better the next day.
There is a lot of light pollution in California but if you can get away inland a bit you might see some of the northern sky.
Good luck and congratulations. See you at Lostock.
