Spread the love

From August 11-13, Tasmania’s premier eco events destination, Spring Bay Mill, will invite visitors to turn off their devices, turn down the lights, and tune into the rhythms of nature. NOCTURNA marks the finale weekend of the annual Beaker Street Festival, and promises to be an unforgettable experience for travellers and curious minds, providing a rejuvenating escape and a wealth of stimulating ideas.

Presented in partnership with Spring Bay Mill and in association with Dark Sky Tasmania, NOCTURNA offers guests the opportunity to spend time in one of the darkest inhabited places on earth, while enjoying a curated program of stargazing, Indigenous astronomy, live music, fascinating scientific talks, cold water swimming, yoga and breath workshops, and exceptional local food and drinks. The event is also a chance for visitors to learn more about the Dark Sky movement, and the simple steps we can take to reduce light pollution, preserve darkness and our connection to nature.

“NOCTURNA is a celebration of our still-pristine dark skies in this part of the world,” says Beaker Street Festival director and evolutionary biologist Dr Margo Adler. “We are so lucky here to still be able to gaze up and experience the enchantment of a star-studded sky. We’ve envisioned NOCTURNA as a sumptuous weekend retreat and a chance to embrace the darkness while connecting with nature and each other.”

NOCTURNA highlights include:

Friday 11th: Dark Sky Dinner featuring celebrated local chef Lilly Trewartha, plus live music and engaging speakers
Saturday 12th:

Morning deep time yoga with Dr Penny Jones, with music by cellist Georgia Shine
Presentations with an incredible line up of science educators including President of Dark Sky President, Landon Banister, Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski and Beaker Street’s resident bat scientist Dr Lisa Cawthen
Indigenous astronomy talks with Theresa Sainty, Nunami Sculthorpe-Green, and Andry Sculthorpe
A sunset performance by harpist Emily Sanzaro, plus live music throughout the evening
Sunday 13th:

A mind-expanding breath workshop with Dave Murphy
A cold-water plunge on site at the beautiful Windlass Bay

NOCTURNA offers a limited number of places for the weekend retreat to ensure an intimate experience.
Early registration is highly recommended to secure a place at what is sure to be an unforgettable weekend.
Day passes will also be available from 2pm on Saturday 12th for those wanting to enjoy the afternoon sessions and stay into the evening. Head to the Beaker Street Festival website for the full NOCTURNA program, retreat inclusions and ticket sales – https://www.beakerstreet.com.au.
Beaker Street Festival is proudly presented by Beaker Street with its Foundation Partner the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Major partners include Events Tasmania, City of Hobart, and Spring Bay Mill.