Kingaroy ObservatoryLOCATION: Taabinga / TYPE: Observatories and Planetariums by South Burnett

Kingaroy Observatory is Queensland’s largest self-funded public outreach stargazing attraction, located 250M along Geoff Raph Drive up from the airport terminal.

They have three, Meade 14 inch telescopes to show you the Universe and Planets up close!

One of these telescopes is et-up Equatorial for both Visual and Astrophotpgraphy.

They also have Qld’s very first electronic digital colour eyepiece , called a SMARTEYE that shows everything in colour.

During your night visit, the astronomer points out various constellations and stars using a registered green laser pointer, and gives an ongoing commentary of what you are viewing in the telescopes.

The observatory has a ramped entrance, making it easy for walking, wheely walkers and wheelchairs. Each telescope can be adjusted up and down to suit any height, including those in a chair.

Bookings are essential. Book online from their website’s calendar, seen on the home page.

The observatory is owned and operated by retired Research astronomer, James aka Dr Jim Barclay who has over 65 years in Astronomy. His passion and knowledge of the Universe will astound you !

This facility has plenty of off-street and roadside parking.

They conduct Basic to Advanced Astro-photography and Astronomy workshops and the Astronomer can be hired out for School visits and community events.