Erupting from the Warrumbungles Mountain ranges, the impressive 500 meter ancient eroded volcanic tower rises out of the plains. Belougery Spire is the most distinct and largest jagged rock formation formed 180 million years ago from ancient volcanic explosions.

Being fascinated with rare and unique landscapes, I love capturing the night sky with them. I research my subjects and learn about what I am photographing to provide myself a deeper insight into what I am capturing. A greater connection is built with the landscape with this approach encouraging me to produce a photograph that best represents the location.

To reach this summit, it is a steep hike carrying a heavy load of camera equipment in freezing conditions whilst looking up at the incline I must endure reaching the nearby bluff. When I embark on these hikes I remind myself the faster I hike and push through, the quicker I will arrive to be most rewarded with a view of the night sky.

At the top of this peak, the skies are crystal-clear as this region is the Southern Hemispheres first official “Dark Sky Park”. The humidity is low, altitude is high and is far away from the any city lights. The view will take your breathe away.

Stargazing is the primary reason people visit the Warrumbungles and I wanted to produce a piece that represents both the dark skies and the amazing landscape below.

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