The Port Macquarie Observatory Association is gearing up for a busy Christmas and New Year when hundreds of people flock to their headquarters in Rotary Park.

The Association is looking for more people to get involved in the group as it moves into the beginnings of a five year project.

President Robert Brangwin says the Association is looking for potential volunteers with a science or teaching background.

"We are currently seeking volunteers from the Port Macquarie community to help as our future expands," he said.

"These people will be trained for tasks such as ticket and shop sales, telescope presentations and education sessions, as well as general supervision for events.

"We are also keen to hear from people with a science or teaching background to aid with designing new presentations and interesting displays.

"The Association is planning for the future. We have been on our current site - Rotary Park, Stewart Street - for nearly 60 years, first opening in 1962.

"The Association's vision is to create an observatory and science centre on the same site," he said.

"The new plans show that it will become a Port Macquarie icon, available for community and school groups and be a tourist attraction."

Mr Brangwin said this new community asset will offer "interactive astronomy education" as its core objective.

It is hoped to be beneficial to primary, secondary and tertiary and parallel STEM curriculums, he said.

The Association is a not-for-profit entity and aims to be able to offer scholarships in astrophysics and associated disciplines when excess funds become available.

Vice-president Chris Ireland said the five year project will provide an enlarged dome and telescope, an 80 plus auditorium, a generous display area for interactive activities, attracting all ages, and a large plaza overlooking Town Beach.

"Externally there will be a large external video screen to show astro-science programs and night sky viewings as well as much needed public toilet amenities," he said.

"The building will also provide a number of spaces both large and small available for hire for conferences, functions and community meetings."

For more information email the Port Macquarie Observatory Association at pmobs.info@gmail.com or contact the president on 0428 570 369 or vice president on 0437 656 653.

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