Wooglemai is our prime dark sky observing site, with clubhouse amenities, sleeping accommodation and unlimited all night viewing hours.
This information page is specific to Wooglemai. For broader MAS protocols which are applicable to all observing locations please read: Field Nights – Essential Information
Admission is for financial members only. It is especially suitable for intermediate and advanced astronomers.
Ownership
The property is owned and leased to us on observing nights by the custodians of Wooglemai Environmental Education Centre. The site is owned by Guntawang Catholic Youth Centres Inc. and is leased by the NSW Department of Education.
We acknowledge the Gundungurra and Dharawal people, the traditional custodians of this site and surrounding areas.
Members Only
Our field nights at Wooglemai are not open to the general public. We prefer not to invite visitors, for insurance and other reasons. If there is a good reason why you think you might wish to bring a friend or family member, please discuss this with the President at least 48 hours in advance.
Admission is only $30.00 per person per session, whether staying overnight or not, which represents excellent value. Please make your full payment > HERE <
The absolute minimum attendance is two members, although for security reasons the preferred number is three.
Dates
Wooglemai observing dates are intended for a Saturday close to New Moon but this may vary and may not be every month.
Upcoming dates are listed on the Notice Board page.
If a scheduled night is cancelled due to weather, it is unlikely that another night will be selected. (However a Stargard session may be possible).
Location
| Address: | Wooglemai Environmental Education Centre, Sheehys Creek Rd, Oakdale. |
| Coordinates: | 150° 30′ 01” E, 34° 08′ 06” S. |
| Elevation: | 468m above sea level. |
| Night temperatures: | Extremely cold. |
| Access road: | Unsealed road, upgraded in January 2024. |
| Weather outlook: | Wooglemai has been added to the list of observing sites on the NSW meteogram section of Cloud Free Night website. |
The area surrounding the field is home to many wild creatures. Please respect their habitat and look out for them in the dark.
General Field Etiquette
Please read our Field Nights page for our general protocols, customs and courtesies at observing sessions wherever they may be held.
Astronomy is a dark sky activity and attendees must carry a red torch at all times.
Arrival and/or Departure
Please arrive in daylight, in time to safely observe obstacles and setup your gear before sunset.
We are not permitted to drive on any field if it is damp enough to leave tyre impressions.
If you depart before sunrise, please drive slowly and be alert for local wildlife.
Facilities & Services
Wooglemai is an environmentally friendly site, operating in accordance with sustainability principles and minimising resource use and waste leaving the site.
| General 240 volt power | Not available. We require our own battery power for equipment. |
| Mobile phone charging | A power outlet for mobile phone charging is available |
| Cooking facilities | Gas cooking, two fridges, a low wattage toaster; external barbecue. |
| Mobile reception | Check when you arrive. |
| Drinking water | UV sterilised rainwater, suitable for human consumption. |
| Toilet and washing facilities? | Yes. |
| Shops, services & other facilities | Oakdale, 7 km. |
| Waste disposal | Take all rubbish home. |
If you or a family member are showing any symptoms of covid, influenza or the common cold etc. please do not attend any of our events.