The small town of Ross in Tasmania is on a mission to preserve its breathtaking night sky, a mission that has captivated the hearts and minds of its residents. This story is a testament to the power of human fascination and the lengths we'll go to protect what we love.
A Starry-Eyed Journey
Marcus Rodrigues, a retired Sydneysider, found his passion for astronomy at a young age. The passing of Comet Kohoutek in 1973 sparked a lifelong obsession with the night sky. After years of urban living, where city lights obscured the stars, Marcus sought a place to retire where he could truly appreciate the celestial spectacle.
His search led him to Ross, a tiny town known for its crystal-clear night sky. "The skies down here are by far the best in Australia," Marcus says. And he's not alone in his appreciation.
A Community United
Ross residents, led by Nigel Davies, are working tirelessly to gain 'dark sky accreditation' from Dark Sky International. This accreditation would not only preserve the town's darkness but also make it the first in Tasmania and just the third in Australia to achieve such a distinction. It's a project driven by volunteers, a true community effort.
"First, we have to show the area is truly dark," Nigel explains. Ross scores an impressive 21 on the darkness meter, almost reaching the absolute black of 22. But it's not just about the darkness; it's about the support and collaboration within the community. With 99% backing from locals and businesses, the project has a solid foundation.
Lighting the Way
One of the key challenges is making the town's external lights compliant with Dark Sky International's standards. All 54 street lamps must be shielded to emit light downwards only, and the color temperature must be in the warmer, softer yellow spectrum. It's a substantial undertaking, but one that Nigel believes will pay off.
"It's a win-win for local councils," he says. "The new smart lights will not only make Ross compliant but also save power and maintenance costs."
A Brighter Future
The potential benefits of dark sky accreditation extend beyond the preservation of the night sky. It's about reconnecting with nature, with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way and the Southern Cross. It's about boosting tourism and putting Ross on the map. And it's about the growing astronomical community, like Marcus and Scott Bennett, who have found their perfect home in Ross.
"I'm forever on the hunt to discover something," Marcus says. "This place is perfect for me."
Leading the Way
Ross could be a trailblazer for dark sky accreditation in Tasmania. Landon Bannister, president of Tasmania Dark Sky, believes the state has the potential for countless accredited communities. Ross, with its dedicated residents and stunning night sky, could provide a roadmap for others to follow.
"It's a huge thing because it will give us a clear path forward," Landon says.
As we look to the stars, we see a community united by a shared passion, working together to protect a precious natural resource. Ross's journey is a reminder of the impact we can have when we come together for a cause we believe in. It's a story of hope, inspiration, and the power of the human spirit.
