The South Eastern Wheatbelt strengthens its dark sky destination development with the Shire of Kondinin joining the Astrotourism Towns network.
Wave Rock near Hyden is an iconic attraction for astrophotography enthusiasts. With the Shire of Kondinin joining WA’s Astrotourism Towns project, additional astro locations near the towns of Kondinin and Karlgarin have been added to the map to bolster overnight stays and pave the way for new astro-businesses.
Kondinin Shire President, Cr Kent Mouritz, said “Astrotourism is a natural fit for the Shire of Kondinin. Our clear skies and wide-open spaces create an ideal setting to attract visitors looking to experience the beauty of the Wheatbelt. It’s a great opportunity to boost local tourism and highlight everything that makes our region unique.”
Carol Redford, CEO at Astrotourism WA has been working towards a vision to make Western Australia the stargazing capital of the world. The Astrotourism Towns project commenced in 2018 and now promotes a stargazing trail across 16 innovative Local Governments.
“The energy and spirit of regional West Australians is driving the project. Communities in towns like Kondinin, Hyden and Karlgarin quickly recognise the economic, environmental and social value of the night sky is. Light pollution is a global issue and we’re losing sight of the stars. When a community takes ownership of its darkness, that’s the first step to grow an international dark sky destination,” Ms Redford says.
Astrotourism WA will visit Kondinin and Hyden for two Saturn Spectacular stargazing events on 23rd and 24th October. The communities and visitors will discover more about the Astrotourism Towns project and what it means for the local economy. Large telescopes will be set up for attendees to see Saturn, the Moon and star clusters. The experience will also include a green laser pointer tour of the night sky constellations and Milky Way.
Media contacts:
Shire of Kondinin
Hannah Repacholi, Projects Officer, projects@kondinin.wa.gov.au or 08 9880 5160
Astrotourism WA
Carol Redford, stars@astrotourismwa.com.au or 0427 554 035