Hi Kyza,
You are certainly in the right place to keep up with astronomical new and events. A great forum with friendly people. You maybe interested in The annual Queensland Astrofest to be held in around July just North of Esk. A great place to meet people from various clubs in Brisbane. see lots of different equipment in use and of course meet lots of IIS members.
http://www.qldastrofest.org.au/
PeterM.