About ASWA
ASWA was established in May 1950 and celebrated its seventy-fifth anniversary in 2025. ASWA continues to strive to bring the joy of Astronomy within reach of the public and to provide a forum for amateur astronomers of all persuasions to gather together and enjoy this unique hobby.
We are active in public astronomy and provide a wide range of services to our members, including access to our Wheatbelt Observatory for imaging and observation; our Journal, The Sidereal Times; an extensive library of books and journals; a telescope loan program; monthly meetings; star-bq’s at our Urban Observatory at Whiteman Park; special interest groups and various other activities.
Our aims are:
The stimulation of a popular interest in Astronomy.
The association of astronomers, especially the possessors of small telescopes, for mutual help and their organisation in the work of Astronomical observation and imaging.
To promote Astronomical research by amateurs.
Committee
ASWA is a not-for-profit organisation incorporated under the WA Associations Act, run by an elected committee. For 2026-2027, the committee is:
Chairperson — Mr Sean Makin
Deputy Chairperson — Mr Ian Craig
Secretary — Mr Garin Taylor
Treasurer — Mrs Jan Craig
Membership Secretary — Mrs Jan Craig
Editor — Mr Jason Smeets
Instrument Curator — Mr Garin Taylor
Ordinary Committee Member — Mr Brendan Mitchell
Ordinary Committee Member — Mr Colin Southern