Merry Christmas

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Seasons greetings from your Committee members,

Well 2024 is almost over and we have had a very good year. We have had some amazing talks provided by some renowned astronomers thanks to the dedication of Chris Bowden. Although he did let a certain John Beer provide a talk, that was rather poor judgement there!

As you can imagine with the society there are many things that take place to ensure that the society functions as it should. We have Gaynor who provides so much in terms of the IT support that is required and does a whole lot more in the background that is not visible. 

We have Simon who looks after the membership and ensures that everyone is registered and answers any queries that they may have. Callum  also is invaluable in answering the many emails we receive regarding new members and those wishing to join our little society. Jeff is our go to person in terms of the society's financing and does a sterling job (get it!!!). 

Phil has you all know has stepped down as chairman but is still a member of the committee group, his experience is extremely valuable to the running of the society and we are very pleased he remained on as a committee member.

We have Robert who has recently taken over the reins of the chairman and I am sure he will do a fantastic job, he is dedicated and has a level head on his shoulders. 

Howard is a long time member of the society as you all know and he provides a valuable insight to our proceedings. Glenn has been a great sounding board to run ideas past and also is a dab hand at building a little hut for the petrol generator at Fairwood. Tadas is very keen and his skills at telescope making and insights are fantastic, he has been of great use at the recent renovations at the observatory. I must also point out that his observational skills are assisted by Frida, his amazing daughter who points out Saturn to her dad whenever it is visible!

However, the biggest thanks we must provide is to you, our members. Without you the society would not exist. We all share a passion for the night sky (excluding the moon, it is an abomination and ruins deep sky imaging (Sorry Jon Gale... but you are wrong when it comes to the moon) and for a like minded group of people to come together to share our enthusiasm, it makes those cold nights bearable. I have met so many fantastic members during our talks not only at the observatory but also at the IQ building. I have learnt so much and we have taught so much, it truly is remarkable.

We at the committee would like to say a very Merry Christmas to you all and we wish you a very Happy New Year. 

May the skies be clear and your optics clear of dew!

John 

PS. Before I get any feedback I was only joking about the Moon ( or was I??) 

John Beer