24/05/2018
We did it!
The night began in unfortunate circumstances when it became apparent that due to a shipping bungle we hadn’t received our full complement of scopes. A hastily composed email went forth to the parents requesting anything resembling binoculars or a telescope. In true KBSS improvisation we were inundated with an array of objects including kaleidoscopes, PVC pipe and spent toilet rolls. At the wash up we had enough viewing objects to qualify.
The Ladies at the registration table checked off the participants and handed out the scopes with the precision of a Swiss Watch and the kids were issued with glow sticks so we could still see them in the dark.
Before the formal opening, the very talented Emily entertained us with an acoustic set and the Jamboree fund raising team had the snags on the fry as the excitement level started to ramp up.
The evening was formally opened by Central Coast Councils Mayor Jane Smith, asked to fulfil one last official duty before clocking off for the night. Jane addressed the party and left us to ponder one last succinct reference by Stephen Hawking, “look up at the stars, and not down at your feet”.
Next guest to centre stage was Geoff Wyatt, the Education Program Producer at the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences who entertained, enthralled and captivated his adoring audience. It became apparent Geoff was the Pied Piper of the sky. We followed him around enchanted, as if entranced and heading to an uncertain oblivion. Geoff waved his mega sonic Dr Evil laser around, Zorro like, as he pointed out many things including the Southern Cross, the false cross and the wandering star. Sure, a heap of A380 Dream Liners changed route to Brisbane as a precaution but when Geoff enlightened us that Zosma was Leo’s butt, well that sent some kids into hyperventilation and the Leaders scurrying for brown paper bags. Geoff wound up and we all caught our breath.
The western paddock became a swarm of glow sticks again as they danced and flitted off into total darkness.
As we closed in on show time Kooka gave one last motivational spray and we laid down some ground rules. All 84 record attempters assumed their chosen positions, lights were extinguished and Justin Timberlake bleated out his none offensive pop to signal the start of the record attempt. A count down from 10 to 1 indicated the 10 minutes were up. We were done. World Record attempt attempted.
Gazebos were collapsed and tables were folded. We were done for the evening.
Among the many guests that KBSS were honoured to share the night with was ABC radios breakfast host Scott Levi. Scott, like the rest of us had a blast and referred many times to the event on his show the next morning. He even interviewed one of our cubs about the night. Check out 19 mins 20sec, 1hr 1min 30 sec and 1hr 40mins 50 sec for Scott’s assessment of the night on this link http://www.abc.net.au/radio/centralcoast/programs/breakfast/breakfast/9773676
Immeasurable thank you to Tina. The night wouldn’t be anywhere near as memorable without your input and drive. Thank you also to Denise and the helpers on the night including Kaz, Lou, Deb, Liz, Sandra, the Jambo chefs and the low light long exposure wizardry of Brock. Thank you to Central Coast Council for allowing us extended access to the reserve. Finally, thank you everyone who joined in, I hope you enjoyed it as much as me.
Darren
