Professor Ron Ekers, the immediate past Director of the CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility, expressed his delight in the opening of the cafe. He thanked those involved in the conception and construction of the cafe, most notably, Prof. Marcus Price, former OIC of Parkes Observatory, Dr John Reynolds, and Dr Lewis Ball, Deputy OIC of Parkes Observatory. Prof. Ekers described how when he first came to Parkes as a Summer Student in the early 1960's he would have been looked at strangely if he had asked for a cappucino. Today, many things have changed for the better, and he looked forward to having his first coffee in the new cafe.

Andrea Carter, the manager of the cafe, also thanked all those who had worked to see the cafe built, most notably she thanked Rick Twardy, manager of the Visitors Centre, Julia Hockings for organising the official opening ceremony and Dr Lewis Ball, who presented her with a bouquet of flowers. She and her husband Michael, are looking forward to a long and successful association with the observatory.

Professor Ron Ekers was then delighted to make his first coffee in the new cafe.

Outside views of the "DISH CAFE" after the opening ceremony.

The cafe is nestled adjacent to the Visitors Discovery Centre. With visitor numbers exceeding 130,000 last year, we're sure that the addition of the "DISH CAFE" will be a valuable new attraction to the Observatory, catering for the needs of our visitors and increasing the enjoyment of their visit.