Hate to say it but think you're right Peter. I was genuinely surprised in 2008 and 2009 just how many good nights I had with my new 8" Newt, compared to the very early 80s "first time around". Back then I used to feel lucky if I got a decent viewing night once or twice in a one week period on hols. Of course 2010 and earlier was the depths of a major drought, which we hopefully won't see again for a while (even if the astronomer in us doesn't like a moist sky!)
You only have to look at Aus zoomed out in Google earth to see where the most clouds and rain are (the green bits)
