Kestrel Nest EcoHut, a secluded eco-accommodation located in the heart of the Riverina Highlands, has officially been recognised as Australia’s first DarkSky Approved Lodging by DarkSky International.

This prestigious global certification highlights owner’s Louise Freckleton and David Bray’s commitment to protecting the environment through sustainable lighting practices while offering guests a rare, immersive stargazing experience.

The announcement is especially timely, coinciding with International Dark Sky Week (21–28 April), a global celebration that raises awareness of light pollution and the importance of protecting our night skies for future generations.

Just over an hour from Wagga Wagga and within reach of Kosciuszko National Park, the EcoHut is nestled within a landscape where regenerative farming and conservation coexist.

The private, off-grid and off-line short-stay accommodation is located on Highfield Farm and Woodland. Two thirds of the Highfield Farm property is protected under a registered conservation covenant and is home to one of Australia’s most endangered habitats: The Box Gum Grassy Woodland.

The property integrates the protection of critically endangered habitat with small-scale ecological farming and immersive ecotourism.

Kestrel Nest EcoHut’s recent achievement of International DarkSky Approved Lodging certification further enhances its reputation as one of Australia’s most immersive and environmentally conscious accommodation experiences.

To meet the rigorous requirements of this global certification, all lighting at the EcoHut was reviewed and carefully adapted to be low-impact and wildlife-friendly, protecting native nocturnal species such as microbats, night birds, and insects, while preserving the stunning clarity of the night sky for guests.

“Achieving DarkSky Approved Lodging certification fills a missing piece in what we offer,” said Louise Freckelton, co-owner and custodian of Highfield Farm & Woodland.

“We already protect critically endangered habitat and farm using wildlife-inclusive practices aimed at increasing biodiversity. What was missing was considering our night-time environment. We’re thrilled to protect our dark skies for nocturnal creatures and to offer our guests a truly magical experience that connects them with the wonders of the night.”

This milestone builds on the EcoHut’s growing list of accolades, including being Eco Certified by Ecotourism Australia and Highly Commended at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in the Ecotourism category.

These honours reflect the deep, ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact while enriching the guest experience.

Guests at Kestrel Nest EcoHut enjoy more than just a stay. They experience the rare stillness of a truly dark sky, sleep off-grid in an EcoHut built from recycled and locally milled materials, and wake to the sounds of birdsong within one of Australia’s most endangered ecosystems. With no WiFi, free from harmful light sources and no distractions, it offers guests uninterrupted views of the Milky Way and a reconnection to the natural rhythms of the land.

Designed for up to four guests (two adults and two children), the luxury EcoHut offers a truly restorative and meaningful escape, deeply connected to nature, thoughtfully designed to blend into the environment, minimise human impact and internationally recognised for its care for country.

Guests staying at the luxury EcoHut are invited to take in the sky from dedicated stargazing hammocks, relax in an outdoor bath under the stars, or explore the property’s 14 kilometres of trails through conservation and farmed areas. Information on astro-tourism, nocturnal wildlife, and light pollution is also provided to deepen the experience. Looking ahead, the aim is to expand its DarkSky programming through guided stargazing experiences, workshops, educational resources, and collaborations with local First Nations communities to explore Wiradjuri cultural perspectives of the night sky, including the Dark Emu and the Seven Sisters.

At the same time, Louise and David will continue adopting sustainable practices to protect both the environment and the night sky, while mentoring other stays that wish to promote the wonder of the DarkSky for both human and non-human creatures.