The University of Wollongong operates an 18-inch telescope located on the escarpment behind Wollongong. The greatest contribution from a telescope of this size is gained by photoelectric observations which larger telescopes often do not undertake because they are time consuming. In addition such observations require ‘photometric weather’. The sky in Wollongong is ‘photometric’ often enough to support a viable programme. However, it is vital that the telescope (and its instruments) works quickly and efficiently to utilise the fine periods.