Nola and the gang have put together a great itinerary for the weekend, including going back and forth organising the location and accommodation for our group. Read on to view the program for the weekend.

Program
Download a PDF of the program.

Location 

Weather-wise, we should have pleasant warm days, and cool (or really cold) nights.  Rain is always possible though.   As far as we are aware, mobile reception in town is fine  -   though may be intermittent in-between towns.   There will be a little bit of dirt road travel - not off-road style though - when we visit the farm, Little Lake Buloke and the lookout at the back of the Convent.

On way up or down 

There are places of interest to visit on the way there and on the way back, depending on the route (there are several to choose from), or during free time on any extra days.  Some are : 

• Waubra - Wind farms (via Ballarat and Avoca)
• Melville Caves in Kooyoora State Park (On the A79, Calder Hwy.)  Go via Inglewood, or take a trip out from St.Arnaud in free time.
• Inglewood - Eucalyptus Distillery Museum (open 10am-4pm, fee)
• Tarnagulla - burnt out church, mud brick dunny, small town with character in the main street.  This little village is off the beaten track - easy to find if you get lost!!!  (We got lost on the reconnoitre trip!)
• Maryborough area, etc. etc. etc. if doing a meander trip.
• Free time in St. Arnaud  -  there is a Cultural Heritage Trail.  Fire Station, Geyer Cottage, old hospital, gardens, old churches, Mosaic Wall, and others. Brochure available from the Information Centre.

The  Information Centre is in the historic precinct, at the beginning of the main street  -  can’t miss it when coming in from Avoca.  Worth calling in to pick up local maps etc.

What to bring For astro and night photography, the list in Alex Cherney’s notes is an excellent start. 

• Warm clothes
• Camera
• Various lenses - wide angle for astro
• Tripod
• Remote  (timer on your camera will suffice if you don’t have a remote)
• Headlamp for night photography (with a red light)
• Torch
• Maybe a camp chair and rug, glove/mittens
• Sturdy shoes (and woollen socks to keep those toes warm at night)
• Dress-up stuff, props
• Light Painting lights and equipment.  Who has some they can bring ?

Staying at the Old Convent 

Remember, this facility is full of character but does not compare to a motel or B&B. While all linen and towels are supplied, taking an extra towel might be a good idea. Bring all toiletries.

The kitchen is quite large and quite well equipped - fridge, microwave, oven/stove x2, crockery, cutlery, pots & pans. We will be providing basic tea, coffee, milk, sugar for everyone attending the weekend.