York Optical are the only telescope dealer in Oz that I know of... they've been in the biz a long time. They used to have a store in Ozzie Park from memory, but no longer it seems....just checked up & they still operate from Syd, Briz & Melb.
York Optical
I have a 130mm Saxon Newtonian reflector with equatorial mount and motor drive. It would fit in the class of intermediate as far as scopes go & I would recommend to anyone not to buy anything of much less spec than mine.
Reflectors and Dobsonians are the way to go as there is less incidence of light refraction on the lens. Don't get an alt-azimuth mount, it will drive you nuts trying to keep on track with what you are viewing. Unless you got a fat wallet and are able to fork out for a Dobsonian with "Goto" function, definitely get an
equatorial mount and motor drive. Once you have locked onto your target, just turn on the motor drive and it should track nicely, provided you understand the basics of setting an equatorial mount (not too difficult to learn). Especially important for higher magnifications where the earth rotation speed comes into play.
Been thinking of selling mine for a while now, due to changing interests I haven't taken it out for a stargaze for a coupla years now.... it just takes up space in my loungeroom. As new condition, wanting $300 firm. Original RRP was $999. (I am in Bunbury though)... PM me if interested or have any other queries
