Shoalhaven Astronomers (SA) was started in 1991 by a group of local amateur astronomers who felt there was enough interest in astronomy in the Shoalhaven area to maintain a monthly meeting where they could share information and enjoy the company of like-minded people. The first meetings were in the homes of the members until moving to Vincentia Public School and then Falls Creek Primary School. Unfortunately, observing was hindered by dew and mosquitoes so a new site was found at the nearby naval base and then at Nowra Hill Primary School. As the membership grew, the need to find a place that could provide the facilities for lectures and larger group meetings became apparent. In 2009, the University of Wollongong generously offered space at its Shoalhaven Campus in West Nowra and this has been our meeting venue ever since.

By 2021, it had become apparent that the association required more adequate, permanent housing for its growing number of telescopes.  Consequently, Mark Town and John Gould approached local members of parliament and prepared a business case for a financial grant to construct an observatory. Despite several setbacks and after many months of Sunday morning working bees, the new observatory was opened on 6 September 2023. (See John Gould’s detailed account via the link below).

The Genesis of Shoalhaven Astronomers (by Frank Gross)

The 1992 Parkes Expedition (by Frank Gross) 

Building of the Shoalhaven Observatory