Explore the Night Sky 

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Written By Sheree Hoddinett

Budding astronomers and curious minds are being called upon to uncover the mysteries and wonders of the stars. 

Going far beyond those little twinkles we can see from our very own backyard, the ‘Beginner’s Guide to the Stars’ at Caboolture Library promises to take participants on an out-of-this-world journey through the night sky. 

Hosted by South East Queensland Astronomical Society (SEQAS), the event is designed for beginners and families, introducing them to the basics of stargazing and helping them better understand the planets, constellations and celestial events visible from South East Queensland skies. 

A City of Moreton Bay spokesperson said the event was for anyone who wanted to know more about astronomy, or was simply keen to try something new. 

“This is a great opportunity to learn how to recognise some of the main celestial objects visible after dark,” the spokesperson said. 

The program will also explore seasonal night sky highlights and explain how changing weather and light conditions can affect stargazing experiences. Participants will learn practical tips for identifying stars and planets without expensive equipment, along with guidance on how to use simple star maps and mobile astronomy apps. 

“No prior experience is required, just bring your curiosity and a sense of wonder as you explore what’s above,” the spokesperson said. “You may be inspired to join our all-ages monthly astronomy club at Caboolture Library, which runs on the first Tuesday of every month.” 

With clear winter skies often providing ideal viewing conditions, participants might just find themselves outside exploring the stars long after this free session concludes. 

Beginner’s guide to the stars 

  • Tuesday, 23 June, 6.30pm-7.30pm 
  • Caboolture Library 
  • 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture

Other events at your local library this month: 

Next Chapter Book Club

A great opportunity for adults and young adults with developmental disabilities to read and learn, make new friends, and enjoy a fun gathering.  
Caboolture – Monday, 1 June| 11am-12pm  

Quiet hour at the library

City of Moreton Bay libraries have Quiet Hour sessions every week. The aim is to create a low-sensory setting to make the libraries accessible to the diverse needs of the community. During Quiet Hour, the library transforms into a sensory-friendly space for a calm and quiet library experience. 

  • Caboolture – Saturday, 6 and 13 June | 3pm-4pm  
  • Burpengary – Friday, 5 and 12 June | 5pm-6pm 
  • Bribie Island – Tuesday, 2 and 9 June | 5pm-6pm 
  • Woodford – Tuesday, 2 and 9 June | 8.30am-9.30pm 

STEAM Station

Explore a world of science, tech, engineering, art and maths through hands-on discovery after school. Ages 5-11. Free.  

  • Caboolture – Wednesday, 3 and 17 June | 3.30pm-4pm 

LEGO Engineers Club

Attendees will develop design thinking and engineering skills as they build and create with LEGO bricks. Free. Ages 5-12. 

  • Caboolture – Wednesday, 10 and 24 June | 3.30pm-4.30pm 
  • Bribie Island – Tuesday, 9 and 23 June | 3.30pm-4.30pm 
  • Burpengary (bookings required) – Wednesday, 3 and 17 June | 3.30pm-4.30pm 
  • Woodford – Wednesday, 3 June | 3.30pm-4.30pm 

Signed Storytime

In this interactive session, library storytellers and Auslan interpreters will share the magic of picture book stories, action rhymes and songs. Free. No bookings required. For parents and children.  

  • Caboolture – Tuesday, 2 June | 10.30am-11am  

Story Dogs

When children read to a dog, the outcomes are amazing! With their calm and loving nature, dogs provide a magical environment that helps children relax and improve their literacy skills and confidence. Families can book individual sessions for their children at participating libraries, excluding public holidays. 

  • Bribie Island – Thursday, June 4, 11, 18 and 25 | 3.30pm-4.30pm 
  • Burpengary – Thursday, 4 and 18 June | 4pm-5.30pm  

Fun Factory

You never know what could happen when you drop in to the library these school holidays. The Fun Factory aims to engage the whole family with games, craft and activities. Free. No bookings required. All ages. 

  • Bribie Island – Saturday, 27 June | 9am-9.30am 
  • Woodford – Tuesday, 30 June | 2pm-3pm 

Keeping Australian native bees

Discover how easy it is to keep native bees in your backyard with Sarah from Bee Yourself. This workshop is designed for anyone interested in native wildlife, gardening or creating a more bee-friendly outdoor space. Free. Booking required. For adults. 

  • Bribie Island – Saturday, 6 June | 11am-12pm 

Rag rugs

Rag rugs are the ultimate no-sew, recycling project. Participants will use old sheets and a safety pin to create an Amish knot rag rug. All materials are supplied to get started, then participants take their projects home to finish by turning them into a placemat or coaster, or committing to the bigger project of a full-sized round rug. Bookings required. For adults.  

  • Bribie Island – Wednesday, 24 June | 1pm-2.30pm 

Magic Mayhem

Join in this hands-on workshop, where you can discover the secrets behind simple, amazing magic tricks. Attendees will learn fun illusions, practice sleight of hand, and wow friends and family with their new skills. Free. Bookings required. For ages 5-11. 

  • Woodford – Monday, 29 June | 11am-11.45am 
  • Bribie Island – Tuesday, 30 June | 2pm-2.45pm 

Improv Jam

Meet new friends, gain confidence, have fun, and laugh yourself silly with an improv jam for ages 12-17. Participants will learn the tips and tricks to make up hilarious games and scenes on the spot. Improv coach Lindsay will have attendees playing like a pro in no time, even if they have never improvised before. Free. Bookings required.  

  • Caboolture – Monday, 29 June | 2pm-4pm 

Sew a pencil case

Join local artist Mel Brady for a fun and practical workshop designed for beginners. Attendees will learn the basics of operating a sewing machine, from threading and stitching to simple techniques that build confidence. After mastering the essentials, participants will be guided step-by-step through making a stylish pencil case they can take home. All materials are provided, and no prior sewing experience is needed. Free. Bookings required. For ages 12-17. 

  • Bribie Island – Monday, 29 June | 2pm-4pm 

Baby Rhyme Time

Baby Rhyme Time helps develop the skills needed to communicate and to learn to read. In a friendly and relaxed environment, you and your baby can learn rhymes, action songs and finger plays to share together. For parents and children, babies to two years old. 

  • Bribie Island
    • Tuesday, 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 June | 9.30am-10am  
    • Thursday, 4, 11, 18 and 25 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Saturday, 6, 13, 20 and 27 June | 9.30am-10am 
  • Burpengary
    • Tuesday,  2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Thursday, 4, 11, 18 and 25 June | 9.30am-10am 
  • Caboolture
    • Monday, 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Tuesday, 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 June| 9.30am-10am 
    • Wednesday, 3, 10, 17 and 24 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Thursday, 4, 11, 18 and 25 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Friday, 5, 12, 19 and 26 June | 9.30am-10am 
  • Woodford
    • Monday, 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Wednesday, 3, 10, 17 and 24 June | 9.30am-10am  

Storytime

Storytime is a great way to develop a love of reading and introduce children to books. Experience the magic of stories, action rhymes and songs with your child at the library. For parents and children aged 2-5 years. 

  • Bribie Island
    • Monday, 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Wednesday, 3, 10, 17 and 24 June | 9.30am-10am 
    • Friday, 5, 12, 19 and 26 June | 9.30am-10am 
  • Burpengary
    • Tuesday, 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 June | 10.30am-11am 
    • Wednesday, 3, 10, 17 and 24 June | 10.30am-11am 
    • Saturday, 6, 13, 20 and 27 June |10.30am-11am 
  • Caboolture
    • Tuesday,  2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 June| 10.30am-11am 
    • Thursday, 4, 11, 18 and 25 June | 10.30am-11am 
    • Saturday, 6, 13, 20 and 27 June |10.30am-11am  
  • Woodford
    • Friday, 5, 12, 19 and 26 June | 9.30am-10am 

Caboolture Library

  • 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture
  • Ph: 5433 2000 

Burpengary Library

  • 121 Station Road, Burpengary
  • Ph: 5433 2215 

Bribie Island Library

  • 1 Welsby Parade, Bongaree
  • Ph: 5433 2676 

Woodford Library

  • 1 Elizabeth Street, Woodford
  • Ph: 5433 3140

Read more stories from The Caboolture Guide print magazine here: