An astronomy night, billed as ‘unforgettable experience’, will be held this weekend as a fundraiser for the 2019 Hawaiian Ride for Youth.
The annual Hawaiian Ride for Youth raises funds for Youth Focus, a not-for-profit group assisting vulnerable youth with counseling and advice for mental well-being.
The ride sees participants train for six months and then ride from either Albany or Geraldton to Perth in March.
During the ride, there are stops at high schools along the way with participants engaging the students in a dialogue on life skills and activities.
It will be the fourth year Yallingup’s Simon Carroll has participated.
As each rider is required to fundraise in the lead up, Dr Carroll, who is the Head of Science at the WA Museum, decided to arrange for a night of star gazing in Yallingup with Bunbury’s The Mobile Observatory.
The Mobile Observatory boasts Australia’s largest mobile telescope for public viewing.
Mr Carroll said he hoped the community would show support for the cause by attending the special event.
“With mental health, everyone has moments and some people are more affected than others,” he said.
“Learning about our universe reveals our special place in it and it gives us a sense of proportion. On the night, people will have the opportunity to talk to others about well-being and the role Youth Focus has in helping young people.”
The astronomy night will be held on Saturday, January 12 from 6pm to 11pm.
Astronomy talks and viewing will be held between 8pm to 10pm.
Tickets are $50 per person with children under six free.
Tickets are limited and camping is available on site.
For full details, visit rideforyouth.com.au/2019/event/astronomy-night-yallingup.
