Kestrel Nest EcoHut becomes first International DarkSky approved accommodation in Australia

The Kestrel Nest EcoHut, located located at Highfield Farm and Woodland in the Snowy Mountains region of NSW, has been identified by DarkSky International as a place with little light pollution and a clear night sky and as such has become the first lodging in Australia to be internationally recognised as 'dark-sky' accommodation, sparking hopes of a new tourism boom.

As the first certified International DarkSky Approved Lodging in Australia and only the second in the Southern Hemisphere, Kestrel Nest EcoHut stands as a model for sustainable tourism and nighttime conservation.

Founded as the International Dark-Sky Association in 1988, DarkSky is the globally recognised authority on light pollution issues and night sky conservancy and certifies and helps conserve starry sky parks, communities, and other places around the world. The Association works with communities, manufacturers, retailers, and other entities to evaluate and certify dark sky friendly outdoor lighting for commercial, industrial, and residential uses.

Through a rigorous certification process, they enable communities to protect ecologically sensitive areas, the public’s connection to nature, and our universal heritage.

The designation by DarkSky International recognises Kestrel Nest’s commitment to preserving dark skies and the nighttime environment through quality lighting, providing guests with an awe-inspiring and educational experience.

Guests at Kestrel Nest EcoHut can enjoy a rare sense of seclusion. The off-grid, off-line accommodation sits among rolling hills with no man-made structures in sight. Visitors are encouraged to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature, each other, and the star-filled skies above. Stargazing hammocks are strategically placed to maximise views, while an outdoor bath offers a unique opportunity for both stargazing and ‘starbathing’.

To meet DarkSky International’s certification standards, the team behind Kestrel Nest carefully evaluated their outdoor lighting, modifying all fixtures to meet the DarkSky Approved Lodging program guidelines, which are based on the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting. These changes ensure minimal disruption to nocturnal species while enhancing safety and comfort for visitors and guests. As part of the certification, Kestrel Nest also committed to continuing nighttime programming and providing educational resources to help guests better understand light pollution and the importance of protecting the night.

Louise Freckelton, Co-owner and Custodian of Highfield Farm and Woodland shared “we see Achieving DarkSky Approved certification for Kestrel Nest EcoHut as filling a critical missing aspect of what we have offered to date. We already protect critically endangered habitat and farm using wildlife-inclusive practices aimed at increasing biodiversity.

“The missing part was considering our nighttime environment and the creatures that use it. We are thrilled to protect our dark skies for these creatures and to offer our guests a truly magical experience that connects them with the wonders of the night.”

This certification adds to Kestrel Nest’s growing list of environmental credentials, including top-tier Ecotourism Australia recognition and multiple tourism awards. Their leadership continues as they plan to expand their dark sky programming, including hosting future stargazing workshops, developing new educational materials for guests, and mentoring other accommodation providers interested in joining the dark sky movement.

Founded in 2023, the DarkSky International Lodging Program sets a new standard in the travel industry, encouraging hospitality companies to actively participate in safeguarding the night from the damaging effects of light pollution while providing their guests with an awe-inspiring and educational experience under pristine dark skies.
Learn more at darksky.org/news/pack-your-bags-the-darksky-approved-lodging-program-is-now-live/

About DarkSky International
The mission of DarkSky is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting.
Learn more atdarksky.org.