New $3 million stargazing lookout set to draw tourists to the Northern Rivers.
In a big boost for local tourism a new state-of-the-art stargazing observatory has been built in the Northern Rivers.
Positioned just off the Bruxner Highway near Kyogle, the $3.3 million project was greenlit by the NSW Government in an effort to draw visitors to the area.
This project was made possible thanks to a $2.067 million investment from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund and a $1.267 million contribution from the Kyogle Council.
The Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout will be of particular interest to stargazers as its position sits at the exact latitude where the centre of the Milky Way crosses overhead daily.
Designed by firm Terrior, the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout was shortlisted at the World Architecture Festival with the galvanised steel and pre-cast concrete structure offering a striking juxtaposition against the rolling hills in the crest of the Richmond Range.
The opening of the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout is a huge coup for the area, with “dark tourism” on the rise across the country this will no doubt bring celestial seekers to the Northern Rivers.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said this new project will further put the Richmond region on the map for tourists.
“The Northern Rivers has a new star in its tourism crown with the official opening of the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout,” she said in an official statement.
“By investing in unique landmarks like this, the NSW Government is ensuring our regional communities have the world-class infrastructure they need to thrive. This project is a prime example of how we are delivering high-impact results for Western and Regional NSW.”
As the Northern Rivers experiences a boom of regional migration, the townships that make this area so special will no doubt experience an influx of interest from tourists. One of the byproducts of projects like the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout is the boost to the local economy.
“By leveraging Mallanganee’s unique celestial position, we are diversifying the local economy, and giving people a compelling reason to visit and stay in our vibrant regions, said Moriarty.
“Whether you are a local or a visitor, standing beneath the centre of the Milky Way at this award-winning facility is a powerful reminder of the innovation and beauty found in our regional backyard.”
If you’re heading to the area we’ll meet you under the Milky Way at the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout.