Annual Dinner and Awards Night 2025
Glenelg Golf Club 6th September
On 6th September 2025, the Astronomical Society of South Australia (ASSA) hosted its much-anticipated Annual Dinner and Awards Night at the Glenelg Golf Club. The event brought together 87 guests who gathered to celebrate the Society’s achievements and enjoy an evening of camaraderie and recognition.
The night was marked by a delicious three-course meal, during which attendees watched the Exhibition Video featuring the entries for the Imaging Awards. Adding to the festivities, guests participated in a lively quiz and a door prize draw, contributing to the event’s spirited atmosphere.
This year, ASSA was honoured to welcome several special guests. Ron and Sandra Pinksterboer attended on behalf of the Society’s sponsors, Adelaide Optical Centre. Barbara Richardson represented the Richardson family, while Will and Gabi Vrbasso travelled from Perth specifically for the event. Will, a newly appointed judge, shared insights about his journey as an astrophotographer and competitor in imaging contests. Although Peter Ward, a long-serving Imaging Awards judge, was unable to attend, ASSA President Gerhard Velaitis read a message from him to the audience. The third judge, Luke Tscharke, was also unable to be present on the night.
The presentation of the Astro-Imaging Awards and Service Awards formed the centrepiece of the evening. The proceedings began with an Exhibition Video showcasing a record-breaking 114 entries from 31 contributors. This impressive compilation, crafted by Marie Wills, displayed works across five categories: Deep Sky, Solar System, Smartphone, Nightscape, and Timelapse. In addition to the main categories, special awards were presented, including the Craig Richardson Award and the Overall Winner.
The Society’s Service Awards were bestowed upon three members in recognition of their outstanding service and commitment to ASSA. Notably, the prestigious Bill Bradfield Award was presented for the first time in four years. The Editor’s Award also recognised the author of the best original Bulletin article.
President Gerhard Velaitis led the evening’s quiz, with Ross Gerrand tossing prizes to those with the correct answers. Gerhard also drew the door prize and concluded the celebrations by expressing his gratitude to the guests. He emphasised the importance and rewards of volunteering, highlighting the vital role volunteers play in sustaining ASSA’s activities.
The 2025 Annual Awards Night served as a fitting tribute to the talent, dedication, and passion that define South Australia’s vibrant amateur astronomy community.
ASTRO-IMAGING AWARDS
NIGHTSCAPES
Highly Commended:–
Jarrod Rueff – Aurora at Mount Pleasant.
The Winner:-
Stephen Muller – Hobart Aurora.
SMARTPHONE
Highly commended:-
Oscar Dubsky-Smith – Celestial Crossroads
The Winner:-
Jane Brooks – Celestial Smoke.
SOLAR SYSTEM
The Winner:-
Michael Matiazzo – Splendid Comet C/2024 G3 ATLAS
TIMELAPSE
Highly Commended:-
Simon Knight – Steve at Big Bend.
The Winner:-
Will Godward – Flinders’ Waltz.
DEEP SKY
Highly Commended – 1
Ian Inverarity – It’s a Seagull!
Highly Commended – 2
Jarrod Rueff – Fornax Climax
Highly Commended – 3
Gerard O’Born – Leo Triplet.
The Winner and Overall Winner:-
Paul Montague – Corona Australis.
CRAIG RICHARDSON AWARD
Gerhard Velaitis – Onkaparinga Aurora
EDITOR’S AWARD
Nicola Hughes – for her article in the September 2024 Bulletin titled “Louise Webster, Adelaide’s Black Hole Pioneer”.
ASSA SERVICE AWARDS
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Les Laub - In recognition of keeping members informed and entertained with astronomical oddities, histories and curiosities for over 17 years. His writing style makes the rich history of astronomy interesting and engaging. Les’s variety of research and dedication to submitting articles in a timely manner should be acknowledged by the Society.
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Michael Mattiazzo -In recognition of ongoing contribution of well written, well researched articles to The Bulletin over the past 25 years and his willingness to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with his fellow members.
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Matthew Lindner -In recognition of dedication of a significant contribution to the Council during his time as ASSA Treasurer.
The Bill Bradfield Award
This is the Society’s premier award and is awarded to a South Australian amateur astronomer in recognition of their notable contribution to Astronomy either through astronomical discovery, research, or observational astronomy over an extended period of time.
In 2025 it has been awarded to Michael Mattiazzo for his long-standing dedication to comet discovery and solar system observations. Michael exhibits meticulous attention to detail, rigour, and research. He is generous in sharing his discoveries and assisting others to learn about comets. His efforts are recognised nationally and globally. Since 2003 Michael has discovered 10 comets and in 2023 he co-authored a scientific paper entitled “Disintegration of Long-period Comet C/2021 A1 (Leonard)” in The Astronomical Journal.
