WHEN it comes to the stars, country folk have a distinct advantage over city dwellers.

"If you look up into the night sky from the city, you might be able to see, at best, about 300 stars," says Astronomical Society of Victoria president Perry Vlahos.

"But in the country, that figure grows to about 3000.

Perry, an astronomer and author of several books on the subject, says even large towns such as Ballarat and Bendigo will have light pollution.

That's why the society has its "dark sky site" on 12ha in Heathcote, which often holds events open to the public.

Perry says anyone interested in starting out in astronomy should not buy a telescope.

"Whatever you do don't buy one, because inevitably it will be a mistake."

He says first school yourself: read, join a club or take a course.

A pair of binoculars will suffice for those starting out.

If you're under the age of 40 invest in a 7x50 pair of binoculars, or if you're over 40 a 10x50.

"With those you could see Jupiter and the craters on the moon."

There are about 1000 members of the society spread around Victoria, with affiliated groups in regional centres.

Members have access to lectures and books, as well as 10 large telescopes to loan for three months at no charge.