Hi Mick
All good advice above.
I have one more thing to offer.
Come to an observing night, see touch feel look through the various scopes we have.
Ask questions.
There is sure to be a group meeting near you.
If not, you are always welcome at our sessions at Mangrove Mountain.
(See Star Parties thread and sticky at top thereof for location and directions to the Pony Club.)
We are not an astro Club so you don't have to "join" to come along.
Very friendly and lots of advice and experience.
Mostly visual observing, but we do have a number of imagers who frequently come along (including Iceman himself on occasions).
Its not that far and it Free.
and there will be a gathering this Saturday (weather permitting)
Or maybe the Blue Mountains gang may be closer, not sure if they are free though?
Really it's the best way to get a decent idea of what you want, from people who have been that way.
Regards
Hope to see you soon