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Long before anyone else, First Nations Australians were expert astronomers. The world's longest living culture bore witness to celestial events and happenings that history has long forgotten, while also looking to the night sky to glean invaluable information about seasonal changes and animal and plant cycles. It has also been used as a means of knowing and sharing ancient histories. They call it Sky Country, with the heavens being a land all of their own. And now, you've been invited to visit it, too.
In Healesville Sanctuary's Coranderrk Bushland (a rarely accessible part of the park), the new Sky Country Tours are being run by Gomeroi astrophysicist Krystal De Napoli. Join her on a walk through the bush at night, learning all about Indigenous ancient stories, histories and practical uses stored in the stars above. This stargazing experience follows a path that winds through hefty old gum trees and a vast, glassy lake, guided by the gentle glow of the night sky.
You'll be guided through the interconnectedness of First Nations astronomy, learning about how the stars can be used for navigation, understanding the changing of the seasons and food supplies, and how it impacts native wildlife. And as per the night sky's ever-changing face, every tour is a little bit different. It's also an opportunity to explore the ecological impacts of light pollution and discover how protecting dark skies supports the health of native species.
“For me, it is really exciting to tap into the curiosity that lies within people and hopefully inspire them to care about keeping our skies dark, because not only is that important for us to keep seeing the stars but also for the health of a lot of native species,” says De Napoli.
Healesville Sanctuary's Sky Country Tours are running for a limited time until June 20, from 5.30-7.30pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets cost $110 per adult, $55 per child (with members priced at $88 per adult and $50 per child). You find out more and purchase tickets here.
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