Fri, 08 Mar
|Coonabarabran
Illuminating Darkness
Join us on a journey to Australia's first Dark Sky Place in the Warrumbungle National Park. This exclusive tour invites lighting experts to explore pristine night skies, stargaze, and unwind at the Astronomers Lodge near Australia's National Optical Telescope. Witness the magic of the night.


Time & Location
08 Mar 2024, 2:00 pm AEDT – 10 Mar 2024, 2:00 pm AEDT
Coonabarabran, Observatory Rd, Coonabarabran NSW 2357, Australia
About the event
STYLE - Fun, Educational
Accommodaiton - 3 - 4 Star / Escorted
Fitness - good level of mobilityÂ
ITINERARY
Day 1: Thursday 7 March - Arrival in Dubbo and Siding Spring Observatory
Upon your arrival in Dubbo, you'll be tranfsered to your exclusive accommodation at Siding Spring Observatory. This is not open to the general public, with special permission granted for IES memebrs for this special event. Your journey begins with an in-depth exploration of the Siding Spring Observatory, where you'll delve into the background of the celestial research and scientific discoveries that have been made on site. The day concludes with a 3 course dinner at the Astronomers Lodge, before a magnficent night of stargazing during new moon. (D)
Day 2: Friday 8 March - Inside Australia's biggest telescope
The morning kicks off with a behind the scenes guided tour of the observatory's biggest telescope - the Anglo Australian Telescope. In the afternoon you'll venture into the Pilliga Forest, home to unique flora and fauna, discovering the Sandstone Caves which offer insights into geological and cultural aspects. Tonights dinner is at the quirky Pilliga Pottery. Â Reflect on the day's discoveries with a schnitzel and a glass of german beer! (B,D)
Day 3: Saturday 9 March - Emu Logic and Departure
Your tour concludes with a visit to Emu Logic, an opportunity to expand your knowledge about Australia's distinct wildlife. You'll return to Dubbo, ready to depart at 2 pm, having gained a deeper understanding of scientific and educational aspects throughout your three-day journey. (B)
Price per person
Single - $1,100Â
Additional person in room - $850
Inclusions:
· Tour Host – Fred Watson
· Tour Manager – Marnie Ogg
· Exclusive accommodation in the Siding Spring Astronomers Lodge
- Coach transfers to/from Dubbo and throughout
· Breakfast and Dinner daily
· Entry to all sights, and activities listed
​
Not included:
· Flights or train to / from Dubbo
· Tips
· Drinks
· Items of personal nature
Â
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 (10Â 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 ONE person per room, in Queen beds. Second participants may share the room at the additional land arrangement cost only.Â
​
Deposit:
$500 pp  - nonrefundable but is transferable
Final Payment - 8 February 2024
Places
- Sale ends: 10 Feb 2024, 5:00 pm AEDT
Deposit - IES Tour
$500.00Tax: GST included+$12.50 service fee
Total
$0.00