Thinking of Stromlo....

[Peter Quinn <pjq@eso.org>]

Title: Thinking of Stromlo....

Dear Penny

    It is hard to imagine that so much we worked for and loved is gone. I cannot bring myself to look at most of the pictures on the web. It’s just too heart breaking. 

    I have been trying to rally some support in several ways. Catherine has now written to you with some offers of support from ESO in the form of telescope time, library materials and visitor programme opportunities. I have helped form a large email list of people we call Stromloites – former staff and students. We are trying to organize support of two kinds. Firstly direct support to Stromlo via letters to you from international organizations we now all work for, e.g. Catherine letter. I understand many similar efforts are underway. Secondly we are trying to get directors and high level people from these organizations to write to the ANU VC and the PM expressing our concerns at the loss of Stromlo infrastructure, underlining the importance and contribution of Stromlo to world astronomy and urging for a speedy rebuild. I am drafting the ESO letter now. I have been in touch with Garth and Jeremy who are working in a similar direction. Heather Morrison is also helping in the US. The Stromloites would also like to make a coordinated contribution to the rebuild. If there is something we can fund as a part of the process then please let us know. I have already mentioned this possibility to Ken and John Norris in recent telephone conversations. 

    Please let me know if there is something else I can do to help.

    Good luck. This is going to be a very difficult time but also an important time for Stromlo to rebuild and perhaps revitalize itself to continue it’s major international role.

    Best regards

    Peter