Setting up camp at the Leon Mow Dark Sky Site outside Heathcote on Taungurung Country, and guided by astrophysicist and Indigenous researchers, Duane Hamacher, and Jamie Rooney; we’ll learn about the significance of the night sky and the role it has played in human consciousness for thousands of generations. Gathered around the campfire and peering through telescopes, we’ll uncover different ways of looking at the stars and understanding their stories, from dark constellations to a means of navigation.

Exploring our understanding of Sky Country, and the realities of the knowledge lost since colonisation, we’ll also discuss the importance and practice of preserving and nurturing these knowledge systems.

Bringing together First Nations community, astronomy experts, indigenous researchers, and the Mappa community to learn and engage in meaningful conversations; with this experience, we hope to illustrate the interconnectedness of the earth, its elements and its inhabitants — flora, fauna, and human.

Participants have the option to reserve a The North Face tent when booking this experience (note sleep system is not included). Alternatively, you can bring all of your own camp gear. Tents and event capacity are limited, so reserve your spot quickly!

WHERE
Leon Mow Dark Sky Site (LMDSS), Taungurung Country (specific meeting point shared upon ticket purchase)

WHEN
08.03.25 - 09.03.25

ACCESSIBILITY
LMDSS observatory is an all-abilities access facility. If you have any particular accessibility needs please contact us and we will do our best to support you.

Duane Hamacher (he/him) holds degrees in physics (BSc), astronomy (MSc), and Indigenous studies (PhD) with experience across archaeology, ethnography, geophysics, and observational astrophysics. An Associate Professor and Director of the Cultural & Indigenous Astronomy program in the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne, Duane’s work focuses on humanity's connection to the stars and our presence in space in terms of science, history, culture, and society, with a focus on Australian Indigenous Astronomy. Alongside six Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, Duane published the best-selling book, The First Astronomers: how Indigenous Elders read the stars.

Jamie Rooney (he/him) is an astronomer and archaeologist pursuing a PhD at the University of Melbourne, researching the astronomy of the Kulin Nations. His work explores how traditional celestial knowledge shapes Indigenous cultural practices and cosmological understanding both in deep time and contemporaneously. In addition to his astronomical heritage work, Jamie is deeply passionate about STEM and science education. As Chairman of the Board at the Bendigo Planetarium and Science Centre, he is dedicated to promoting scientific literacy and inspiring future generations in the fields of astronomy and cultural science. Jamie brings strong leadership and governance experience to the Centre, driving its strategic direction and growth.

Meeting on Saturday afternoon, we’ll set up camp at ASV’s Leon Mow Dark Sky Site near Heathcote, just over 1.5 hours north of Melbourne. For those who reserved a The North Face tent, this will be set up for you upon arrival.

Dinner will be provided (vegetarian and vegan options available), before the sun sets and our stargazing commences.

We’ll serve breakfast on Sunday morning and debrief on the night before as well as share local recommendations for trails and other activities. Packing up camp, the experience will conclude by midday.

Astronomer-led stargaze on Taungurung Country
Learn about existing knowledge of Sky Country within the Kulin Nation
Understanding of the night sky and the diverse histories within the stars
Access to ASV observatory and professional telescopes for star viewing
Campsite + fees (access to LMDSS including indoor space, shower, running water, flushing toilet and kitchen facilities)
Pre-trip organisation + itinerary
Community dinner + breakfast
The North Face tent (dependent on ticket purchased)

Camp gear
Sleep system (sleeping mat + bag, pillow, etc.)
Camp chair
Plate, bowl and utensils
Tent or swag (for those who haven’t reserved a The North Face tent)

Other
Clothes (comfortable clothes + footwear, warm layers)
Sun protection
Food / snacks*

*Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast will be provided (please advise Mappa team of any dietaries and bring additional food for lunches along with any desired snacks or sweets)