I am always dubious about visiting Swinburne because the weather is unpredictable, and it can be a chilly place in winter. So although I accepted Ed's invitation to join his group on a visit, I was not expecting much.
As we approached Harrismith on Friday evening, I saw clouds and a misty atmosphere ahead of us, however by the time we arrived at the former town of Swinburne, the sky was clear. After an excellent supper, those of us who had brought telescopes, set them up under a brilliant Milky Way with Crux very high overhead. Although each owner had their own viewing agenda, I find it very rewarding to compare sights through different instruments, and to share with those who had not brought their own.
Periodically, Constant would provide us with the temperature. The one evening it was -5 when we packed up, and -2 the other.
Mars was just climbing above the rooftop at about 11:00, and a quick peek showed a really large disc, promising some spectacular sights in the months to come. I was able to see Centaurus A (NGC 5128). For the first time I was able to discern in the eyepiece what we see in photographs. I've had better views of the Jewel Box (NGC 4755) Kappa Crucis was not as red as I've seen it before.
Notwithstanding my earlier doubts, it was a very rewarding week-end, seeing old friends and meeting new ones. The food, as always, was delicious and worth the visit.
I enjoyed the week-end, and WAS VERY GLAD I TOOK MY ELECTRIC BLANKET.
Melvyn Hannibal