August 25, 2016
Astronomer Jim Barclay’s quest to get the South Burnett listed by the International Dark Skies Association (IDSA) will be taking a breather soon.
Jim, from the Kingaroy Observatory, has been busy photographing local wineries and tourist attractions this month as part of his quest to get the region put on the “astro tourism” map.
But he’ll be taking some breaks after September 7 – partly to avoid the moon shedding too much of a glow over his work, and partly to allow the region’s vines to begin budding and putting on leaves.
This week Jim advised project participants the two best windows coming up for night sky photography after September 7 are September 22-October 7, and October 28-November 7.
“This project is going to be long and intense as it’s the very first one in Queensland,” Jim said.
“I’m excited to the hilt.”
In July, the Warrumbungle National Park in central western NSW was designated Australia’s first IDSA certified International Dark Sky Park, recognising its key role in Australian astronomical research.
Jim is working in conjunction with the South Burnett Wine Industry Association and South Burnett tourism operators to photograph the night skies over their properties.
He will then use the photographs to support his application to IDSA to get the South Burnett listed as a second Australian dark skies site, and hopes to get the South Burnett Regional Council’s backing for the application.
He also hopes to hold a photographic exhibition of his work at either the Kingaroy Art Gallery or the Wondai Regional Art Gallery when the project is completed.
- Related article: Jim Seeks Our Dark Skies
