Astronomical! Maleny shoots for stars to protect dark skies
Secretary of the Brisbane Astronomical Society Dr Ken Wishaw says nature and astronomers will benefit from Maleny Observatory’s designation.
When it comes to dark skies, Maleny is a star. And it’s official. The Astronomical Society of Australia has just recognised the town’s star gazing facilities at Maleny Golf Club as a “Designated Observatory.”
It means the Brisbane Astronomical Society operations at the clubhouse can now be referred to as the Maleny Observatory, pictured below, and should go a long way to ensure the town’s pristine night skies are kept that way, both for astronomers and for local wildlife.
Secretary of the Brisbane Astronomical Society Dr Ken Wishaw wants more people to “see the light” about protecting Maleny’s dark skies not just for astronomical purposes but for nature.
“Artificial light affects migratory birds that navigate by the stars, disturbs nocturnal breeding patterns of animals and insects, causes animals to avoid certain locations and can cause plants to put out perfume during the night, when pollinators are not flying,” Dr Wishaw said.
“Light pollution can spread 300km from the source. So it’s very important that we protect our dark skies. This designation gives us a little bit more influence with Council and the State Government when it comes to helping to keep the night skies dark in Maleny.
“The vast majority of street lights in Maleny are owned by the state government and not by council. But the community and Council can have a say in what sorts of street lights can be put in place and this has a beneficial effect on wildlife.
“Also, for new developments, council can choose to be pretty restrictive in what people are allowed to put in place. Once they are aware an designated observatory is there, council can protect their dark skies in accordance with the Standards Australia guidelines. They are guidelines not laws but everyone respects them.”
Maleny Golf Club Vice President Max Whitten said establishment of the Maleny Observatory at the club was a wonderful example of innovative thinking about how community endeavours can share facilities for mutual and broader community benefit.
“The official designation is a significant step for Sunshine Coast Astronomy but should aid both organisations in our mutual quest to secure funding for a new clubhouse which can accommodate both the Observatory and Maleny Golf Club,” Mr Whitten said.
“The Standards Association of Australia and New Zealand recognize the need for restrictions on outdoor lighting in the vicinity of designated observatories, so this will assist in keeping the precinct dark.
Dr Whitten said the recognition might also be of assistance regarding an application for dark sky park or reserve status, and hopefully for grant applications.
“Sharing a purpose-built club house with the astronomers and stargazers will represent a sound investment of public and community funds.”
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