The Society was formed in January 1996 under the leadership of Phillip Ainsworth. Phillip was a resident of Ingleburn at the time and - recognising the lack of an organised astronomical Society in South Western Sydney - he decided to do something about it. He publicised the proposed formation of a new astronomical organisation in the Campbelltown newspapers.

The initial meeting was held in Phillip's garage and the neighbours must have wondered what what was going on when over thirty people tried to park in his quiet back street. Phillip and his wife were surprised at the number who turned up as well.

It was a hot summer evening. Some stood, whilst others sat in as many chairs as the Ainsworth family could muster and it was moved and carried that Macarthur Astronomical Society be formed.

The second meeting (the first AGM) was held in February 1996, at the University of Western Sydney. Phillip was elected President and he held the position from 1996 to 2000.

All subsequent monthly meetings were held at the University of Western Sydney.

Very few of the early members possessed telescopes but this began to change as regular star nights were held in member's back yards and at a property near Wilton.

A club telescope was purchased in June 1997, a 6” Dobsonian, assisted by a generous donation of $500.00 from the Campbelltown Branch of the Commonwealth Bank. This scope soon became known as “MacDob”. Later, two permanent homes were found for regular star nights, including the Forest with it's spectacular dark skies.

The Society commenced community educational talks and regular public star nights.

Noel Sharp was elected President in 2000 and lead the Society until 2007, when the current President, John Rombi took over.

All three MAS Presidents promoted a friendly club atmosphere and were each instrumental in bringing an impressive list of talented monthly guest speakers, including distinguished professional astronomers and specialised amateurs.

Several of the members who joined in 1996 remain current members, including at least two who were at that inaugural meeting and several more who joined soon after. Many more have already been awarded ten-year membership badges, as the Society goes from strength to strength.

Management Committee Members Since Formation