Queensland Rail gets onboard with dark sky win
Queensland Rail has ‘come over to the dark side’ following public outcry over the extraordinary levels of night-time light pollution at the newly completed Landsborough park and ride facility.
As revealed by GC&M News on May 28 2024, one of the Sunshine Coast’s leading astronomers, Dr. Ken Wishaw, raised concerns that the Landsborough train station carpark was the most light-polluted location on the Sunshine Coast, outside of central Maroochydore.
The issue was highlighted as the Sunshine Coast Council moves towards creating one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the Southern Hemisphere.
Dr. Wishaw expressed his delight with the announcement on Wednesday, June 19 that Queensland Rail will reduce the lighting intensity at the park and ride facility by the end of June.
He said it was fantastic news and praised the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) for supporting dark sky preservation.
“When they first put these lights in, I expressed my concerns. They have eventually taken notice and decided to do the right thing,” said Dr. Wishaw.
“They have set a precedent for other government organisations to consider the same thing: not using light when it’s not necessary.
“This decision will make a significant difference to the light pollution around Landsborough.”
Dr. Wishaw also thanked GC&M News for taking up the cause and pursuing it. “It’s no coincidence that these actions have occurred soon after the issue was raised publicly,” he said.
Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt, said he was pleased to have championed the cause for the community. He believes the outcome strikes the right balance between maintaining public safety and preserving dark sky integrity.
“What is being proposed is a two-phase approach which shows some intelligence has been applied,” said Mr. Hunt.
“From dusk until 9 pm, the lighting will be reduced to 70%, and from 9 pm until dawn, it will be reduced to 40% of the current brightness.”
Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland, Neil Backer, said in response to a community enquiry, Queensland Rail has completed an inspection at the Landsborough station park ‘n’ ride and from late June 2024.
“Lighting levels will be permanently dimmed to 70 per cent from dusk until 9pm and to 40 per cent until sunrise, Mr Backer said. “This change addresses the community enquiry while still ensuring the ongoing safety of Queensland Rail’s customers.”
