Join us for a special National Science Week event, with a panel discussion on dark Sky Country, including keynote speaker Duane Hamacher. Duane is internationally renowned for his research in cultural astronomy, including research on Tasmanian Aboriginal sky stories, among the oldest in the world. Joining Duane for a panel discussion will be Palawa woman Sharnie Read (Aboriginal Heritage Officer, Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre) Lisa Cawthen (Chiropterologist, aka bat scientist; Dark Sky Tasmania board member), and Emily Flies (Geographer and Lecturer at University of Tasmania). This special panel discussion exploring the science of Sky Country and reinforcing the importance of protecting and restoring the night sky will take place at 6pm, Saturday August 17th, at the University of Tasmania and Stanley Burbury Theatre.

All of life has evolved with dark skies and a day/night cycle - the circadian rhythm. Night skies connect us with the ancient rhythms of life, and are essential to our understanding of landscape: rivers, mountains, sea and sky. Lutruwita/Tasmania is a unique and special place at night. The lives of all living things here are considerably less impacted by light pollution than in other places on Earth. Palawa connections to milaythina wurangkili (Sky Country) hold important teachings about place and spirituality, and Lutruwita/Tasmania’s unique ecological systems depend on a strong, predictable circadian rhythm.

While urban and densely populated areas are increasingly polluted with light, the remote corners of the globe’s highest ranked Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area is primed for protection and international recognition. Just like the Tasmanian Devil and Huon pine, the rich dark skies of this special area are iconic, and of international significance worthy of protection.

National Science Week allows us a special moment to ‘shine a light’ on the importance of protecting the dark night from light pollution - critical to the environment, wildlife and our wellbeing - with the Southwest Dark Sky Sanctuary. 

Reserve your seat today to join us for this special session at 6pm Saturday August 17th @ Stanley Burbury Theatre.

RSVP today. 

This event will take place on the sovereign and unceded lands of the Palawa people, the rightful owners of Lutruwita / Tasmania.

Parking & Public Access: Car parking is available outside the Stanley Burbury Theatre. Public transport (bus) is available from the city and within 50 metres of the venue. The event will be held in a wheelchair accessible building.