Kestrel Nest EcoHut becomes first International DarkSky Approved Lodge in Australia
Riverina, NSW, Australia
DarkSky International is proud to announce the official certification of Kestrel Nest EcoHut, located at Highfield Farm and Woodland in New South Wales, as an International DarkSky Approved Lodge. This designation recognizes Kestrel Nest’s commitment to preserving dark skies and the nighttime environment through quality lighting, providing guests with an awe-inspiring and educational experience. 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.
Nestled in the heart of the Riverina region, Kestrel Nest EcoHut offers an immersive nature experience far from urban skyglow. Situated on Highfield Farm and Woodland, the property combines conservation of critically endangered habitat with ecological farming and sustainable, Ecotourism Australia-certified accommodation. Located within reach of Wagga Wagga and Tumut, and not far from Kosciuszko National Park, the site is perfectly positioned for stargazing under pristine skies.
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 maximize 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.
“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,” said Louise Freckelton, Co-owner and Custodian of Highfield Farm and Woodland.
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.
With this milestone, Kestrel Nest EcoHut becomes a guiding star for sustainable tourism and an inspiring example of how protecting the night benefits both people and the planet.
About the DarkSky International Lodging Program
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.
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 at darksky.org.
Contacts
+61 (0)429 985 222
Website
James Brigagliano
Lighting Program Manager, DarkSky International
+1 (520) 858-0428 | [email protected]
