The Dark Sky Sanctuary designation is just the third of its kind in the nation. Photo: Supplied by Tourism and Events NT, @domandjesso, and Wild Australia Photography.
The Northern Territory has been given a rare honour while also securing a tourism win, with the Karlu Karlu Conservation Reserve designated as Australia’s third International Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International.
Sitting 100 kilometres south of Tennant Creek, Karlu Karlu is a 1800-hectare reserve renowned for the Devil’s Marbles rock formation and stunning night-time views.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby, who is also the Minister for Parks and Wildlife, said the recognition was a major opportunity for the Barkly region.
“This is an absolutely stellar achievement. It’s a big deal for tourism in the Barkly. And it’s yet another reason why the Northern Territory truly is a one-of-a-kind destination,” Ms Boothby said.
“Our night skies are some of the darkest in the world, with a practically uninterrupted view of the Milky Way — a stargazer’s dream! And with wide-open spaces like Karlu Karlu, there’s no shortage of exceptional viewing — and investment — opportunities in the Barkly.”
Member for Barkly Steven Edgington added: “This is fantastic news for our region and for the Territory. Now the world is discovering what locals already know: there’s nothing like getting out across the Barkly to enjoy the natural beauty, warm hospitality and unique history that set the Territory apart.”
The announcement comes as the Northern Territory Government builds the astrotourism sector ahead of the 2028 total solar eclipse, when sections of Barkly will experience almost five minutes of the sun completely blocked out by the moon.
New investment has also been announced for the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station, creating opportunities for boutique heritage accommodation.
“Earlier this year, the Territory was listed as the 14th-best place to visit in 2026 by The New York Times, and we’ve continued to make waves in national and global media,” Ms Boothby said.
“In our year of growth, certainty and security, one thing is absolutely clear: the stars are aligning for the Territory as we attract more visitors, more investment, and more interest than ever.”
