Published on Wednesday, 9 March 2022 at 1:06:32 PM
The Shire of Ashburton has identified the 2023 solar eclipse as a significant opportunity for continued astrotourism possibilities within the region.
Onslow, on the Pilbara coastline, lies on the edge of the path of totality for the 2023 event, making it an exciting location to experience the solar eclipse next year.
Shire of Ashburton President Kerry White acknowledged the event would be a significant drawcard for visitors to the region, with Onslow to experience over 99% of the sun covered by the moon during the eclipse.
“Council is very excited that Onslow and several locations within the Shire of Ashburton are positioned to take advantage of this phenomena by offering access to the path of totality for the total solar eclipse, while also offering a unique vantage point to experience a very deep partial eclipse”, said Councillor White.
“The Shire of Ashburton is working with
Astrotourism WA's Carol Redford, and
Dr Kate Russo - Author, Psychologist, Eclipse chaser, Founder of Being in the Shadow, to implement a series of activities that will position Onslow and the Shire of Ashburton as a location to view the eclipse next year and to identify a longer-term strategy for such future events.
“It follows the Shire joining the astrotourism community last year with Onslow listed as an Astrotourism Town, with observing points at ANZAC Memorial Park and Onslow Termite Mound viewing area as well as Resilience Sculpture outside Paraburdoo being listed as an Astrotourism photography hot spot.
“It is estimated that 50,000 people will visit Exmouth, Carnarvon and wider Pilbara and Gascoyne regions to witness the total solar eclipse, which will have a positive impact on our tourism industry, and we are also working with Shire of Exmouth and Shire of Carnarvon to explore ways in which we can support each other to maximise this event.
“We will commence a one-year countdown to the 2023 eclipse in April this year with numerous forums and workshops currently being planned that will inform and assist the community to understand the science of the eclipse and assess the opportunities for businesses and residents to get involved.”
Founder of Being in the Shadow, Dr Kate Russo explains that the total solar eclipse is a magnificent and beautiful celestial event that draws huge international crowds, and advance planning is required.
“We have also identified that 16 years from now, the Shire of Ashburton will be one of the best places in the world and Onslow the first town in Australia to view the 2038 total solar eclipse. In the meantime, next year’s solar eclipse is an exhilarating warm up for what is to come, and celebrations will be planned across the Shire.”
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