Dark Sky Dinner with Prof Alan Duffy and Dr Kirsten Banks

Date: 8 August 2024

Time: Tours at the Radio Telescope Observatory start at 5:45pm; Doors open at Frogmore Creek Winery at 6:30pm and Dinner starts at 7pm

Venue: Frogmore Creek Vineyard and Restaurant, with optional tour at Mount Pleasant Radio Observatory

Tasmania’s clean air, long winter nights, and low levels of light pollution make it one of the best spots in Australia for stargazing. Just 15 minutes outside Hobart, you’ll find a dark haven overlooking the Coal River Valley that’s home to both the Mount Pleasant Radio Telescope Observatory and, just down the road, one of Tasmania’s most renowned wineries, Frogmore Creek. We invite you to join us for a celebration of astronomy, the cosmos, and the best of Tasmanian food and wine under gloriously dark skies. 

Start the evening with an optional tour of the Radio Telescope with Dr Simin Salarpour and Dr Warren Hankey, taking in the control room and the Grote Reber Museum, as well as a chance to check out the Astronomical Society of Tasmania’s observing sheds and equipment. Then head down the road to Frogmore Creek for a delicious candle-lit dinner of beautiful local produce by head chef Mark Burne and featuring talks by two legends of Australian astronomy: Professor Alan Duffy and Dr Kirsten Banks. You’ll have ample opportunity to chat with the speakers and head outside to enjoy telescopes and guided stargazing with the Astronomical Society of Tasmania. 

Please note that spaces are limited and bookings will close two weeks before the event, unless sold out prior. We suggest you book soon to avoid disappointment. 
The dinner includes a glass of Single Block Series Pinot Meunier Sparkling or non-alcoholic option on arrival. Other beverages will be available for purchase.

A Seat at the Table
Beaker Street Festival's pay-it-forward initiative, A Seat at the Table, helps make our science and art offerings accessible to those who can't afford to purchase a ticket. Ticket buyers have the option to donate towards the cost of a stranger's ticket. You won't know who you've helped, but your donation will go directly to allowing someone else to access this great event. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Need a seat at the table? Just fill out this quick form to request one or two tickets to any event. Your information will never be shared or made public. If we can offer you a seat, we'll notify you by email a week or two out from the event.

More about Beaker Street Festival 
Beaker Street Festival is a week-long celebration of science and art in Lutruwita/Tasmania each August. Now in its eighth year, Beaker Street Festival promises a mix of wonder, flavour, and scientifically proven fun. The Festival invites adults from all walks of life to delve into today’s hottest topics with a packed program of science-infused entertainment and discussions, while experiencing the best of Tasmanian environments and culture. View the entire program at www.beakerstreet.com.au 

BEAKER STREET FESTIVAL 
AUGUST 6-13 2024