I think I've almost recovered.
We all met up at the Cafe Sydney and after introductions, we received our books, got them signed and had our group photos taken.
Then we moved into a private room off the balcony.
I was seated next to Wilson da Silva from Cosmos magazine and opposite Prof Cox. There was a rep from the BBC but I forgot his name. Also there were the other winners, Graham, Rayner, Simon and Lynne (also from qld)
Wilson then got us to ask our questions.
We learned how he got his interest in astronomy and science, he shared his views on science outreach, and gave us a mini lecture on astro and terrestrial biology and particle physics. There were plenty of anecdotes along the way too.
I had my voice recorder on for some of the time, and will post that later, once I do a bit of editing. (I talk wayyy to much)
One of the high lights of the afternoon was when I got Brian to sign my sonic screw driver, to commemorate his stint on Dr Who. At first he was like "what the hell is that" and then he went "Wow", we had a giggling fit while I showed him how it worked. I think he wanted to keep it.
I also presented him with a pair of IIS Eclipse glasses. Which he honestly appreciated. He fiddled with them all during the afternoon, and when it was time to leave, he carefully placed them inside his book.
The amount of eye contact was almost disconcerting. Having those baby brown eyes looking into ones own all the time. I think we made a connection of sorts, one science space nut to another.
That night, I teamed up with Graham, the older gent in the group photo, and we went for a walk up under the Bridge and towards the Opera House. We then realised we were half way to Sydney Observatory.
That resulted in a quick text message to Les Dalrymple, and we met him out the front and we were treated to a personal tour.
We then joined a group of Danish Eclipse chasers while they had their tour. Thanks Les, we had a great time.
Here's a few of the pics from the afternoon.
The sonic screwdriver was great idea!
