Hi Mark,
Nice to have you aboard.
If you like travelling for dark skies, and like to meet a bunch of like minded friendly folk, check out the Star Parties forum and have a look at the Bretti short trip planned for May New Moon.
or
Maybe you could make it to the "Pony Club" at Mangrove Mountain one time.
Mark Suchting was there last week.
and even Iceman turns up occasionally.
And there is usually at least one SDM.
And it is informal and free.
Check the map in the top sticky section of Star Parties...
Looking forward to seeing you.
Al