Have you checked out NAS? (Newcastle Astronomy Society)
Several IceInSpace members also belong to the NAS, and they'll be more than happy to have you along to their viewing nights or meetings to show you some of their telescopes.
You should also consider coming to our new moon observing nights at Kulnura, with is just south of you by about an hour. We usually have IceInSpace members from the Central Coast, Sydney and Newcastle coming every month, and it's a great fun time.
Also, please check out the
IceInSpace AstroCamp, happening at the end of this month just north/west of you. There'll be over 50 people there with different types of telescopes and you'll get to see through them and try before you buy!
Steve Massey (from MyAstroShop) might also be there so you can have a chat to him in person.
Hope to see you there!