Murraylands offer a perfect spot to capture amazing images of the night sky
Looking for the perfect Instagram shot? From now until October is the ideal time to head to the Murraylands to do some stargazing.
SA Business
Don't miss out on the headlines from SA Business. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Tourist drought ends on the Fleurieu
- Prizes, discounts, freebies: Check out the latest subscriber rewards
The clear skies of the Murraylands make it the perfect place for stargazing – and it is quickly becoming known as one of the region’s premier tourist attractions.
In November last year, the International Dark-Sky Association recognised its attributes as being one of the best places on Earth to see the night sky.
It officially made the region an International Dark Sky Reserve and now is the best time to view the Milky Way.
From May to October, photographers have the opportunity to capture spectacular images similar to this picture taken by Jay Tee near Mannum.
“Now is the perfect time to go out and shoot the Milky Way,” Mr Tee said.
“It may be a little cold but the results are well worth the effort.”
Dave Hartley, from the Mannum Motel and River Shack Rentals, is also a keen photographer.
“It’s a such a great spot down here and photography offers a great way to get out and enjoy the local scenery,” Mr Hartley said.
“We have a lot less light pollution and there’s just so many places you can pull up and take a great photo.”
Mr Hartley said while COVID-19 restrictions had been difficult on businesses, it was now starting to turn a corner.
“(Our) business was down by about 85 per cent when people couldn’t travel,” he said. “While the motel hasn’t picked up a lot as yet, the shack rentals are almost back to the spring/summer numbers.
“A lot of new people are (starting to) discover the region and it makes sense, because we’re really not that far from Adelaide. There’s also been people saying ‘I haven’t visited the river in 25 years and it’s great to rediscover it’.”
Mid Murray Council Mayor Dave Burgess said it was a great relief to see people visiting the region again.
“We’ve got an awesome backyard here in SA and it’s a perfect time to get out and explore it,” Mr Burgess said.
MORE NEWS
Bush parents plead for travel exemptions
Thomas Foods acquires half of Vic business
Murray River, Lakes and Coorong tourism development manager Julie Bates said the Coorong was also worth a drive to witness untamed wilderness and nature.
“As you drive along the Coorong, there are so many great spots to stop and appreciate its natural beauty, including the Jack Point pelican observatory,” she said.
“The Little Local Co is an amazing coffee shop at Tailem Bend, which makes a good stopping point. Half-way between Tailem Bend and Meningie is also an amazing Pink Lake that is incredibly popular.”
The Point Malcolm lighthouse at Narrung is also well worth a visit – it’s the only inland lighthouse in the southern hemisphere.