anyone from Torquay or nearby?

[chaffingbuttock (Matthew)]

Hi guys, just wondering if there are any enthusiasts in the Torquay (Vic) region that would like get together sometime? I'm new to the area and finally have enough gear to actually use my telescope. I've seen a few houses by the beach with telescopes in the window so i know they are out there!
I'm pretty noob at this, but happy to learn the hobby with others at the same level or from someone more experienced. Please flick me a pm if interested. Thanks, Matthew

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Matthew
I am from Colac, which is not a huge distance from Torquay. I am not aware of anyone in that area. If you don't mind a small drive, Snake Valley is only a couple of hours away from you I would imagine. There are club nights once a month and the twice yearly camps.
Then there is the Geelong Astro Assoc that meet at the Geelong Showgrounds.

Cheers

Malcolm

[chaffingbuttock (Matthew)]

Thanks Malcolm I'll look up the Geelong group. It sounds lonely, but if I can find just one other enthusiast in the area for those spur of the moment viewing events..

[Nico13 (Ken)]

Hi Matthew,
Welcome to the area, as Malcolm has mentioned there are the Geelong and Snake Valley groups, himself in Colac and I'm just the other side of Geelong at Bannockburn so there are a few of us around.
As for the telescopes in the windows by the beach they are most likely for looking at the girls in their bikinis on the beach than looking at the stars although their owners may think they're seeing stars
You're welcome to chat about the hobby and setups etc and I think you'll find most of us pretty easy to get along with.

[chaffingbuttock (Matthew)]

Haha Ken, that's all the more reason to learn how to get the most out of their telescope! They do seem to be on alt az mounts so I know they're not imaging stars at least. Girls on the other hand..