About the event
Join Jay for a rare special-access Astromeet at one of Western Sydney’s most dramatic and seldom-visited night photography locations — Burragorang Lookout, perched high above the Warragamba Dam catchment and Lake Burragorang.
We’ve been fortunate to receive special permission from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to access this normally locked area after dark, allowing us to gather and shoot from a lookout that is typically closed at night.
From this elevated vantage point, sweeping views stretch across sandstone escarpments, forested valleys, and the vast waters of Lake Burragorang below. The lookout’s west and south-facing aspects make it ideal for capturing the setting Milky Way, expansive nightscapes, and long-form creative sequences.
Throughout the evening, we’ll cover essential astro considerations — from safety and planning to composition and exposure — while capturing the awe inspiring and unique views of this site.
With minimal foot traffic, controlled access, and expansive skies, Burrogorang Lookout is perfectly suited for star trails, panoramas, timelapses, and long-exposure storytelling.
📍 Why Burragorang Lookout?
- Rare after-dark access to a normally closed National Parks location
- Elevated views across Lake Burragorang and the Warragamba catchment
- West and south-facing compositions ideal for late-season Milky Way shooting
- Remote, atmospheric setting with minimal disturbance and expansive skies
🗓 Event Details
🗓 Date: Saturday 12th September 2026
🕠 Time: 5:00PM – 11:30PM
🌌 Galactic Core Visible: 6:38PM – 5:27AM
📍 Location: Burragorang Lookout, Nattai National Park, NSW
🚗 Parking: Final access, gate entry, and parking instructions will be emailed prior to the event.
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TXB8WtB9hPydJVEt6
⏰ Important Access Notice: Burragorang Lookout is a restricted night-access area. You must arrive on time for gate access, parking guidance, sign-in, and a short site induction and safety briefing. ⚠️ Late arrivals cannot be admitted due to access restrictions and NPWS safety protocols.
🌦 Weather & Conditions
- This Astromeet is weather dependent
- Heavy rain or storm activity may result in cancellation or postponement
- A reserve date of Thursday 9th October has been secured if required
- In the event of cancellation, vouchers will be issued for future events
- Cloudy conditions still allow for creative night shooting and light painting opportunities
🥾 Fitness & Terrain
🔹 Grade 1 – Easy
- Activity remains within the lookout, surrounding cleared areas, and parking zone
- Mostly flat terrain with easy access
- A high degree of personal awareness is required during night shooting
💡 Why Is There a Fee?
Your booking helps cover essential costs including:
✅ NSW National Parks Entry Fees
✅ NPWS Eco Pass Commercial Licensing
✅ Special-access and permit requirements
✅ Public Liability Insurance
✅ Accredited guide and event facilitation
✅ Administration, planning, and logistics
🌌 Join Us Under the Stars
Ready to shoot the night sky from a location few photographers ever experience after dark?
Whether it’s your first Milky Way capture or your hundredth star trail, this special-access Burragorang Astromeet offers rare access, expansive skies, and an unforgettable night of creative exploration.
✨ Remote landscapes. Rare access. One exceptional night.
🔗 Book now — strictly limited places available.
Techniques covered
- 📅 Astro Planning - Using mobile apps to assess Milky Way position, timing, and conditions
- 📷 Camera Setup & Workflow - Tripod placement, stability, and remote shooting considerations
- 🌌 Milky Way Nightscapes - Capturing the final Milky Way alignments of the season
- 📷 Focusing in the Dark - Reliable techniques for achieving sharp stars
- ✨ Creative Night Techniques - Star trails, panoramas, long exposures, and timelapse preparation. Managing lens fog and working in cold night conditions
What to bring
- Headlamp or torch (mandatory)
- DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Wide-angle lens
- Tripod
- Remote shutter release or intervalometer
- Warm layered clothing
- Water and snacks