Port Macquarie Observatory

The Port Macquarie Observatory is run by the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association Inc., a non profit voluntary group of people interested in astronomy.

Astronomy Open Nights

The observatory is open to the public on Sunday and Wednesday nights. Doors open 7.15pm (8pm Daylight saving) and an entertaining presentation takes you for a tour of the night sky with spectacular images of astronomical objects, starting at 7.30 (8.15pm Daylight saving).

After the presentation, weather permitting, the evening ends with a look at an astronomical object through the observatory's telescope.

The presentation goes for about 1 hour and is held regardless of weather (minimum 6 visitors).

A gift shop has many inexpensive, educational and fun items for purchase.

About the Observatory

The observatory is situated in Rotary Park behind Town Beach a short distance from the centre of Port Macquarie.

The observatory was built in 1961/62 through the efforts of Albert York a retired master builder and architect. He intended building an observatory on the top of a building in Joffre Street but was opposed by a neighbour.

The local council enquired into the matter and among those on the committee of enquiry were some Rotarians. They became interested in the idea of an observatory in Port Macquarie and Albert York was asked to address a meeting of the local Rotarians.

As a result of the speech Dr. McLaren suggested that Albert York inspect a 5 inch telescope that was lying in disuse at the local Hastings District Public Hospital. The telescope was a gift from Bob Stanfield, a publican at Port Macquarie to be used for viewing ships at sea.

Due to the size of the telescope it was realised that it would need to be housed in a proper building. Albert York was asked to draw up plans for an observatory. The local council approved the plans and the Lands Department set aside land in Rotary Park for the observatory.

The Rotary Club made the construction an official project and the observatory was built during 1961/62. The 5 inch telescope was installed in the building and the Port Macquarie Observatory was born.

A public meeting was held in the C.W.A. hall where the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association was formed with Albert York as the first president. He held this position until 1983. He passed on in 1984 at the ripe old age of 94.

Since then an auditorium has been added to the building and the original 5 inch telescope has been replaced with a 14 inch.

The observatory is the home of the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association, an active group of about 50 members.

Over the last few years equipment has been upgraded and there are plans within about two years to replace the main 14 inch telescope with a computer controlled instrument. Our open night presentations have been upgraded and this will continue with the use of high tech video and audio equipment.

We at the Observatory are proud of our past and look forward to an equally exciting future.
Days: Every Wednesday, Sunday

Rotary Park Port Macquarie New South Wales, 2444 Australia | Map

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Telephone: 02 6582 2397

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Port Macquarie Observatory

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