FIRST WEEK
DOING ASTRONOMY ON THE 'SOUTHERN SPIRIT'
I've been selected byGreat Southern Railways(GSR) to run a series of illustrated astronomy/space related talks during January 2010 onboard their sister train to the GHAN – the 'Southern Spirit' – as a special guest speaker for their 'Platinum Service' customers. My wife Robin and I were flown to Melbourne last week (January 16) to join up with the tour and had an absolutely amazing time. This train is fabulous, the service is second to none and the onboard food probably better than I've experiernced in any overseas top class restaurant.
The best views of the night sky are found in the Australian outback. This 'Grand Tour' takes us through the heart of Australia. We stoped in Glenrowan for a re-enactment of the Kelly gang siege, visited many towns along the way and ended up our leg with a night at the Parkes Radio Telescope where we were given the run of the visitor's facility area for the night.
We watched several first class astro movies, a presenter had a special 30 min talk all about the Dish telling us what did and didn;t really happen at Parkes on that special Moon landing day. Most gaped in awe as I did after hearing about what did, and did not happen during that amazing time in history! Where you there? Rremember who you were with?
I got most of the passengers outside after that and ran a laser guided sky tour that seemed to be very well received indeed. We traced out some of the better constellations and I showed them how to tell the difference between stars and planets. I explained how the early explorers navigated by the patterns in the night sky. I also demonstrated an easy way to locate the south pole using the Southern Cross.
Pics (left: )The Southern Spirit's spacious dining car where I unfortunately sampled a little too much Merlot and (above) Dave with GSR Boss Ewald at Parkes Visitor Centre. This pic was taken before I headed off to the counter to pay for a few 'astro goodies I couldn't resist.!!
Robin and I are joing the tour again this week for the return journey from Queensland. I'll be talking to a whole new group of passengers. I can highly recommend this trip. One of the best train journeys in the world. I guess it gets even better for us as all expenses have been covered … and I get paid to do the tours!! More next week. 
Here's more detail on the Journey; Bell-boy outfits, all aboard whistles, the gentle rocking motion, the sound of champagne corks firing at the dining car's roof – what could be more elegant and relaxing than a trip on a luxury train? The Southern Spirit – the latest offering from Great Southern Rail, the people who operate the Ghan – might just restore everyone's faith in train travel.
To ensure Great Southern Rail delivers on its promise of luxury it has ordered five new platinum carriages for a cost of around $12 million. The cabins have been designed by a luxury boat builder to a completely new floor plan inspired by the world's most lavish trains – think South Africa's Blue Train or Europe's Orient-Express.
In your private platinum cabin you can sprawl out on a double bed, lather yourself in moisturiser in the ensuite bathroom, sip champagne wearing your complimentary pyjamas, select your pillow from a menu and summon a waiter with the press of a button. In fact you could easily be tricked into thinking you had checked into a five star hotel – until you pulled up the Roman blinds and saw the scenery gliding past.
And if by some strange occurrence you get sick of your cabin you can take a stroll to the Queen Adelaide restaurant car where the food just keeps rolling towards your mouth – oysters, beef and cheesecake. The only downside to all this luxury is that it comes at a price.
The most expensive trip in platinum class is the 13-day odyssey from Brisbane to Darwin for $14,290 per person.The cheapest journey in platinum is the nine-day jaunt from Sydney to Perth for $8,890 per person.
For those who can't afford to travel like the Queen of England through the outback for the best part of a month can drop it down a level and book into gold class. Here I'm in more familiar territory with fold down beds and a "hide-away" toilet and wash basin.
But this is far from cattle class with tea or coffee delivered to the room each morning, in-cabin music and champagne upon arrival.
And if you're looking for a class below gold service there isn't one – Great Southern Rail says the Southern Spirit is aimed at the "lucky few who get on board" and is priced accordingly. Each of the eight journeys combine rail time with stopovers in fancy hotels, excursions and special events – similar to how a luxury sea cruise operates.
Events include, for example, a candlelit dinner underground at Coober Pedy, a seafood dinner in a marquee on Coffs Harbour jetty and Australia Day celebrations 36 storeys up overlooking Sydney Harbour. At the end of the Southern Spirit's season, which runs from November through to February each year, the platinum carriages will join the Ghan. So whether it's on the Southern Spirit or the Ghan you will have year round opportunity to check in to platinum class.
Once inside you can spend your time propped up on your double bed, cool beverage in hand, waving politely through your private window to the children on the CountryLink as you swish past in your polished carriage like a prom queen on her way to accept her crown.
* 'The Inaugural Spirit': Darwin to Sydney, 13 days/12 nights from November 25 – December 7, 2008. Platinum service is $13,290 per person and gold service is $10,290 per person.
SECOND WEEK
DOING ASTRONOMY ON THE 'SOUTHERN SPIRIT'
Astronomy on a Train? – Why Not! Throughout January I was selected to run a series of illustrated astronomy/space related talks onboard Australia's Great Southern Railways train 'Southern Spirit'.
Who would think you could, talk about planets and stars, …… and even show them the night sky, all from a moving train while indulging in 5 star service at the same time?
Well you can and last month your author Dave Reneke from Australasian Science magazine did just that, on board this fabulous train, The Southern Spirit - a sister train to the famous GHAN.
David was invited by Great Southern Railways to take part in the inaugural rail journey of Spirit across Australia as a guest speaker on astronomy, part of the company's 5 year, themed journeys program. He and partner Robin were given complimentary passage for the first week as the train followed a route from Uluru and Alice Springs, down into South Australia then across to Melbourne and into southern NSW. The scenery of a trip like this has to be seen to be believed.!
In fact David and Robin went on the train twice, a week apart. Firstly on the inaugural upward leg and again on the return journey from Queensland. "It's an amazing country and the skies outback are so clear," David said. "The passengers seemed to enjoy it and we did too."
David gave a series of lectures each time onboard the train and organised a night at the 'Dish' – the famous Parkes Radio telescope where the first Moon landing images were received in 1969. A short talk by their resident lecturer Mikalya about what really did and didn't happen on that day, as portrayed in the movie, was enthusiastically received.
(Right) Luxurious lounge car to relax in at your leisure
"Onboard the train you couldn't ask for better service, David said. "This is one of the great rail journeys of the world and I look forward to going again next year." Since becoming a radio correspondent, writer, columnist and media personality, David has carved out an international profile and reputation.
It's a big year ahead. As well as developing his webpage business further David is set to continue his popular Astronomy Outreach program for Aussie schools, expand his writing portfolio, take part in overseas astronomy tours with other large travel companies and, a few more E-Books are on the way.
(Left) The top class dining car with world class service!
One of the best things about travelling like this is the people you meet. I mean, you just can't help get caught up in everyone's life… and every body has their own unique story. Their own unique fingerprint on this planet.
We met up with quite a few fellow travellers, most baby-boomers like us, who were at the stage of enjoying the best life has to offer. They enjoyed the night skies too which was good for me because, after all, that's what I was on-board for… to be the 'astro-entertainer' on the journey.
In such a short time it's all over and everyone heads back home. The memories, the videos, the pics I took will be the lasting reminder of a fabulous working holiday and a great train. Not to mention the aspects and scenery of Australia we encountered along the way. Would I do it again.. you bet! Would I recommend it to anyone else? For sure!!! And you can quote me on that.
An unusual photo taken by Dave Reneke of the 'Dish' as it caught the rays of the setting Sun in January 2010
This 'Grand Tour' travelled through the heart of Australia. I gave a lecture on basic astronomy and ran a highly spirited astro tour of the night sky at the Parkes Telescope for the large group of passengers.
I led an organised tour through the famous 'Dish' visitor's centre and the guests enjoyed a great evening of 3-D movies, the run of the visitor centre and a great talk by resident Parkes Telescope lecturer, Makalya, on the facts and fallacies found in the movie 'The Dish.'
Thanks also to manager Chris Holingdrake for helping make the night a huge success. I highly recommend this facility to everyone!!!! All meals on excursions are included on every trip and my wife Robin and I went on both the upward and downward legs. The service from Great Southern Rail was absolutely second to none!
(Left) Dave showing off … lecturing to the passengers )
I've conducted hundreds of astronomy/space nights like these and never tire of seeing the delight on people's faces when I explain to them the beauty of double stars, galaxies, planets and beautiful nebula clouds.
Southern Spirit passengers can indulge in 12-night grand tours, in some instances taking in three states and six cities. And for the first time Melbourne and Brisbane will be included in Australia’s luxury train travel experiences. Southern Spirit journeys will be available from November through February each year and will combine train time including overnight sleeps with five-star hotels and add-on events and experiences, similar to land excursions during sea cruises, or options on bus tours.
(Pic right) One more? Well …errr….OK!
Great Southern Rail’s new Platinum Service on the The Southern Spirit gives passengers a private space almost twice the size of the previous top-of-the-range Gold Class on the Ghan and the Indian Pacific. The cabin includes an en-suite bathroom with permanent toilet, sink and shower (no folding down). During the day it has a sofa, ottomans and table and windows either side with Roman blinds. Places on The Southern Spirit are limited and highly sought after.
So book early to secure your place on board this new Exclusive Australian Rail Journey and see more of Australia, experience more of Australia… and become an amateur astronomer for a few nights. These exclusive tours are designed so you can pause and savour the essence of Australia as The Southern Spirit winds its way through a rich tapestry of landscapes. All meals on excursions are included.
To add to your enjoyment, guest presenters offer informative commentary on the regions travelled, covering topics such as history, astronomy, culture, food and wine.Find Out More …
EARLY BIRD OFFER – SEE AUSTRALIA AND SAVE * Book your Southern Spirit adventure early and you can save BIG with their 'Early Bird Offer.' You won't be sorry and you'll be enormously surprised at the saving!
For detailed information regarding these exclusive Australian rail Journeys visit thesouthernspirit.com.au or call for a brochure on 1300-881-416.
ASTRONOMY NIGHTS – Our Biggest Crowd Yet!!!!!
Boy did we get a good response to our new 'Astronomy Nights' in Port Macquarie. Each week we are drawing bigger and bigger crowds. Last Wednesday night 60 people crowded into our lecture room for a great night of space and astronomy. Visitors from as far away as Perth and New Zealand were in the audience and a good sprinkling of kids too.
On Friday night (April 14, 2010) we had a special night just for the kids and again, a great response. After the talk we all went outside for a top view of the heavens using Lachlan MacDonald's 18" Obsession telescope, (similar to the one pictured left, his fave 20 incher). This is one of the biggest telescopes in Australia and we were all marvelling at the views through the eyepiece.
Last Friday night Lachlan had set his scope up in Rotary Park in Port Macquarie for a spot of 'Sidewalk Surfin' – people passing through the park were amazed, dozens of people came by before Lachaln packed up just before mignight. A truly amazing astro night. I can't thank Lachlan enough for his efforts. He's part of the renowned 3RF (Three Rivers Foundation). Check their website for details :http://www.3rf.com.au/
Why not come along to our special astronomy and space show 'Discovering the Universe' presented by 'Astro Dave.' You’ll be amazed at what you see and hear! Suitable for those with little or no knowledge of astronomy, this enthralling astro show is covered in simple, easy to understand terms.
A highlight of the evening will be a laser guided tour and telescope viewing of the night sky in the resort grounds after the talk, weather permitting.
It’s on every Wednesday night at 6.45pm. Admission is $6 per person or just $20 for a family of four in the conference room. Bookings at the front office or just turn up on the night. Get out under the stars at the Village Resort, 288 Hastings River Drive Port Macquarie. General public welcome. You won't be sorry! Enquiries: davereneke@gmail.com Mobile: 0400 636 363
OUR ASTRONOMY NIGHTS - Continue To Thrill!!!!!
Your feedback to our astro nights has been fantastic!! Thank you! We keep getting rave reviews from the many people who are now discovering the only way to have a great astro night in Port Macquarie away from the glare of the CBD and surrounds! Yuk, who wants that!!!!! Last week (April 21) was a buzzer… clear skies, 35 visitors, and plenty of avid astro nuts ready to listen to Dave's talk.
You will not hear or see anything like this anywhere in the world, we promise. Why settle for dry presentations you see running everywhere else when you can experience the exuberance Dave gives in his unique lectures. People are telling us we have the best astronomy night in the region, bar none – and that's gratifying. Pic: Lachlan's 18" telescope is a BIG hit!
We now have a top range of astronomy products for sale including exclusive DVDs, Astronomy Yearbooks, Star maps, CD-Roms for kids, Posters, Telescope buyers guides, Telescopes, E-Books, etc etc and and our new line, astronomy starter packs for adults and kids. We continue to run out of stock on these so be quick.
Why not come along to our special astronomy and space show 'Discovering the Universe' presented by 'Astro Dave.' You’ll be amazed at what you see and hear! Suitable for those with little or no knowledge of astronomy, this enthralling astro show is covered in simple, easy to understand terms.
A highlight of the evening will be a laser guided tour and telescope viewing of the night sky in the resort grounds after the talk, weather permitting. It’s on every Wednesday night at 6.45pm. Admission is $6 per person or just $20 for a family of four in the conference room. Bookings at the front office or just turn up on the night.
Get out under the stars at the Village Resort, 288 Hastings River Drive Port Macquarie. General public welcome. Bring the kids too, there are activities they can get involved in OK? All welcome.
You get FREE star maps, FREE Facts Sheets, FREE Science Magazines worth $18, and a FREE DVD giveaway through the night in our 'astro-quiz'.. You won't be sorry! Enquiries: davereneke@gmail.com Mobile: 0400 636 363
Where Did They All Come From?
Every Wednesday night Robin and I hold astronomy talks and telescope viewings at the Village Resort ,188 Hastings River Drive in Port Macquarie NSW.
The house full sign went up last Wednesday night (July 7, 2010) as around 50 Mums and Dads (and kids), all visitors to Port Macquarie,crowded into our lecture room for a night of great Powerpoint slides,a bit of fun and some serious astronomy… Not bad when you consider it was a rainy night with 'Hey Hey… ' and the State of Origin on the telly!
In just 4 months we've gone from a small group to regular crowds of 30-50 visitors to our region each night with just a small amount of publicity. Imagine what we'll be doing when we crank it up fully in the coming months!
How about you? Have you ever wondered how big the Universe is, or how far away the stars are? Perhaps you've wondered about galaxies and black holes, or if we'll ever live on Mars one day. Then if you're in the area why not come along to our special astronomy and space show 'Secrets of the Universe' presented by Australian astronomer David Reneke. You’ll be amazed and shocked at what you will see and hear!
EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT – Video 6.45pm – Slide & Sky Show from 7pm
Suitable for those with little or no knowledge of astronomy, this enthralling astro show is covered in simple, easy to understand terms. People tell us they would have gone elsewhere but chose our better program and darker night skies.
Explore the Universe; discover amazing, star clusters, galaxies, black holes and all the planets in our solar system. You’ll even get to hold a real large meteorite!
Kids (right) love the show as well with free space activity sheets for them to take home, space stickers and bookmarks given out for right answers and plenty of space fun!
We've got a great range of astronomy DVDs, books, magazines, starter packs, interactive space CD Roms, and… we sell two dozen star maps every session!!! (see pic ) After the show you will have a chance to peer through the telescope with viewings of the moon, stars and planets, and a laser guided tour of the night sky. Astronomy DVDs, Books, Star Maps, Astro Packs on sale. Rain, hail or shine it’s on. Kids welcome.
There’s a FREE Star map and astronomy fact sheets, FREE ‘What’s in the Night Sky’ guide, FREE Astronomy & space info sheets, Two FREE Science Magazines worth $18 … Plus A raffle and FREE DVD giveaway during the night!
For early-birds, from 6.45pm, there’s a short astronomy DVD playing – a must for anyone interested in space & astronomy! For the ‘astro buff’ there’s a range of astronomy and space DVDs, books, star maps and ‘Astro Packs’ on sale. Admission is $6 per person or just $20 for a family of four. Running time’s a bit over one hour and a half so you’re in bed by 9pm.
