The stunning views from the Old Laravale School created a perfect backdrop for Scenic Rim Astronomy Association’s Star-Be-Cue.
The Association runs regular events for members and non-members, with the Star-Be-Cue focussed on ‘The Lives of the Stars’.
The evening attracted 55 people from Scenic Rim, Brisbane and the Gold Coast for a casual viewing event and barbeque, accompanied by the opportunity to look at the night sky through members’ telescopes and informative talks by members.
Lindsay Ball began the evening by giving a talk about the life cycle of a star, which provided great information and context for viewings later in the evening.
The Association recently purchased a Rasa telescope with assistance from the Scenic Rim Regional Council and the sight from this telescope was projected onto a screen.
This enabled Association member Greg Campbell to give an entertaining presentation to everyone, pointing out a number of astrological constellations and prominent stars and planets.
Greg said the Association was grateful to Council for the grant.
“It has made our events much more accessible for everyone,” he said.
“It is not always easy for a person to position themselves to view through a telescope so being able to project onto a screen has many benefits.”
Greg, who spent over 400 hours designing and building his own telescope, said it has combined his two passions – astronomy and woodwork.
Greg also provided a giant inflatable planet display on the night, saying he has purchased them for decorations for a ‘significant’ birthday.
For more information about Scenic Rim Astronomy Association, visit their Facebook page or email secretary@sraa.org.au
