I'm So Very NEW!! Hi All

New to the forum, and nw to Prospecting, well I did try many years ago with one of those $100 specials.
But now I'm retired and have the time to realy get into it with something that realy works... (still reading about which is the best to get)
Living in Ballarat, what else do you do. But there is so much to learn, thinking of doing one of those training days with a shop that sells the gear, anyone know if the time is worth it?
Why here if there is anyone else that would like to team up, all you need is the wish to be there. They say it is safe to go with someone. Drop a line

Hi Jeff welcome to the forum,   sounds like your in the right area, keep on reading and you will get many opinions and tips to hopefully help you select a machine for yourself, take your time and don't be rushed into a purchase, having said that.... good luck with that process   its a freaking minefield for someone trying to start in this hobby, don't be shy to ask a question if you will, its probably been asked before and archived but most here do not mind sharing information and will take the time to point you in the right direction if possible, by most accounts any one on one or group training is generally considered worthwhile, it can be a very steep learning curve for some, good luck.  

Wayne. 

Hi GoldenJeff and welcome to the site mate. We all started of were you are now, A Newbe, So the first thing you've got to do is that training day. This will cut at least 2 years of your learning curve. Then join a club or I can suggest the PMAV Ballarat Branch. These guys are great to learn from and they have a monthly meeting and go out at least once a month to differant areas. Info for the Ballarat Branch is :- President James Keays 0404474373 or the Secretary Lois Gray 0418502124. I hope this helps
wombat