Starbeque 2024

Another successful Starbeque was held on Sunday 30th June 2024 at Luddesdown Village Hall near Meopham, Kent. This was the second year at this venue and over 30 members, guests and children had an enjoyable afternoon, both relaxing and joining in the various activities.

The weather was overcast to start with, but the sun came out during the afternoon allowing us to use our solar scopes.

We started with the BBQ which, once again, was overseen by Raf who totally looked the part with his OAS chef’s cap and OAS t-shirt. He did a great job and everyone enjoyed their cooked food with a selection of salads, baked potatoes bread rolls and dressings.

Following the BBQ we shared the Celestial Cakes which were made by members and guests for all to enjoy. Two prizes were given.

Our Water Bottle Rocket Challenge wasn’t able to go ahead this year as cricketers were practising on the adjacent cricket pitch, but prizes were awarded for rocket designs. A stomp rocket competition was held for the children instead which was the only safe option given the proximity of the cricketers. We also organised a Planetary Puzzle which involved working out a code from eight anagrams fixed around the perimeter fence. Prizes went to the first two people to complete the puzzle.

Pete Barrett from Hart Rocketry Club provided a static display of rockets inside the hall as the Rocket Demonstration also couldn’t go ahead because of the cricketers. However, he gave a drone display and members were able to have a bird’s eye view of the venue through his virtual reality headset.

Before heading home we had our first ever group photo taken by a drone.

Many thanks to everyone who attended and for your help during the afternoon – you all contributed to a fun and entertaining social event.

Prepared by Jim Worthington