Illuminating Darkness - SOLD OUT
Wed, 02 Oct
|Coonabarabran
Join us on a journey to Australia's first Dark Sky Place in the Warrumbungle National Park. This exclusive tour invites you to explore pristine night skies, stargaze, and and discover Australia's National Optical Telescope during the celebration of it's 50th Anniversary.
Time & Location
02 Oct 2024, 8:00 am AEST – 05 Oct 2024, 7:00 pm AEST
Coonabarabran, 10 John St, Coonabarabran NSW 2357, Australia
About the event
STYLE - Fun, Educational
Accommodaiton - 3 - 4 Star / Escorted
Fitness - good level of mobilityÂ
ITINERARY
Day 1: Wednesday, 2 October - Arrival and Bok Lecture in Town
Commence your journey at 8 am from Hornsby station, or meet us in Coonabarabran - the choice is yours. A picturesque ride leads you to Coonabarabran. Upon arrival, relax and settle into the Acacia Motor Inn. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the Bok Lecture in town, featuring a distinguished guest speaker. The lecture unveils the wonders of the universe, setting the stage for your celestial adventure. Â We've organised dinner at the famous Chinese Restaurant in town! (D)
Day 2: Thursday, 3 October - Sandstone Caves Exploration & Pilliga Pottery
After breakfast, embark on a unique adventure exploring the Compact Array Telescope at Narrabri. In the afternoon we'll head to the majestic Sandstone Caves in the Pilliga Scrub Forest, discovering geological wonders and cultural insights. In the evening, dine at the Pilliga Pottery, enjoying a delightful meal in a charming setting, savouring a hearty schnitzel and a refreshing German beer. (B,D)
Day 3: Friday, 4 October - Siding Spring Observatory Special Tour & Science in the Pub
Begin the day with breakfast and a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the Siding Spring Observatory, delving into celestial wonders and scientific discoveries. Later, immerse yourself in the lively "Science in the Pub" event, where astronomers passionately discuss celestial phenomena. Dinner will be included for you at the pub. (B,D)
Day 4: Saturday, 5 October - Open Day at Siding Spring Observatory and Return Journey
Engage with the Siding Spring Observatory's Open Day activities, enhancing your understanding of the cosmos and accessing different telescopes on the site. If you've chosen to travel from Hornsby, prepare for your return journey. By evening we'll have you back to Hornsby station, filled with memories and newfound knowledge. *(B,D)*
Price per Person:
- Twin / Double Occupancy: $1,250Â
- Single Occupant Supplement: $350Â
- Children aged 5 - 13 years - $295
- Children over 13: Â $1350Â
** Make your own way to Coonabarabran? Take off $120 per person
Inclusions:
- Tour Manager: Marnie Ogg
- Accommodation at the Acacia Motor Inn
- Round-trip transportation from Hornsby station to Coonabarabran
- Daily breakfast and dinner as listed
- Admission to all listed attractions and activities
- Transportation to/from Hornsby station
- Transportation throughout the tour program
Exclusions:
- Gratuities
- Beverages
- Personal expenses.
NOTES
Tour itinerary and pricing are subject to change at any time. Your place is confirmed on receipt of a non-refundable deposit. Finals are due 30 days prior to departure. Please see our terms and conditions for cancellation details. Â
If the minimum numbers (20Â pax) are not met, alternative travel arrangements may be made, however in the instance that this is not possible, the tour may be cancelled. and your deposit returned. Prices are based on TWO persons per room, in Queen beds. Children's pricing is based on sharing the room with their parent or care giver.Â
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Deposit:
$350 pp  - nonrefundable but is transferable (see our terms and conditions)
Final Payment - 18 August 2024
Places
Deposit - Celebration Tour
$350.00Tax: GST included+$8.75 service feeSold Out
This event is sold out