The Outback Queensland town of Winton, already much loved by grey nomads, looks set to become even more popular as it positions itself as a key astrotourism destination.
Located 178 kilometres from Longreach and with a population of just 1,134, Winton captures the vastness and unique character of the Australian Outback … and its night skies are something to behold.
Now, it has officially been designated Queensland’s first International Dark Sky Community, and only the eighth Dark Sky Place in Australia, by DarkSky International.
To achieve Dark Sky Community status, the town adopted responsible outdoor lighting guidelines, conducted audits and retrofits and ran community education programs on light pollution.
Stargazers will be flocking to Winton after its designation as a Dark Sky Community. PIC: Steve Lippis
Residents and visitors participated in nighttime events to measure sky quality and raise awareness about protecting the night sky. Late last year, it amended its Planning Scheme becoming the first local government in Queensland to embed Dark Sky provisions.
Winton Shire Council Mayor Cathy White said the recognition was a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to protect something universal – the night sky.
The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum is another drawcard for visitors. PIC: Grant Salmond
“Our dark skies are part of what makes Winton special and this certification celebrates our commitment to preserving them for generations to come,” she said. “This is about benchmarking a regional centre and future-proofing our region … as night skies become increasingly rare worldwide, we are making sure our stars remain free from light pollution for visitors from across the globe to enjoy.”
Located in Queensland’s Channel Country, Winton is, of course, also famous for the Waltzing Matilda centre, being the birthplace of Qantas, and being the home of the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum of Natural History and The Jump-Up Dark-Sky Sanctuary.
Looking ahead, Winton Shire Council says it will work with regional partners to promote dark-sky-friendly development and encourage other Outback communities to pursue Dark Sky certification. These efforts are aimed at positioning Winton as a premier dark-sky destination, with a long-term goal of creating a ‘Dark Sky Highway’ along the Outback Way, connecting communities across Australia.
Founded in 2001, the International Dark Sky Places Program encourages communities, parks, and protected areas to preserve and protect dark sites.
It says that, when used indiscriminately, artificial light can disrupt ecosystems, impact human health, waste money and energy, contribute to climate change, and block our view and connection to the universe.
Check out the GNT night sky special here.
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For many years we’ve enjoyed looking up at the night sky in the Outback while camped in the bush all by ourselves.
No distractions, no other people around.
Glowing embers of our camp fire, stars, satellites & the milky way.
Perfect.