Susan, see >
http://www.bintel.com.au/
They can/will/should, give you the contacts to all the local Societies in your area. They put out a monthly 'Night Sky' info flyer. If you go there, buy a 'Chandler' large version, planishere ($22.00?), & red LED torch & they'll prob throw in the flyer.
Good choice re; the dob. Min 8" to start, imho. Not too big or heavy.
HTH.
L.