Northam Observing Site - Bert Hawke Oval

Bert Hawke Oval is in a part of Northam that makes it feel like you’re on the outskirts of town. The Avon River is on one side and there are only a few street lights shining from Suburban Road.

The nearby Bert Hawke Pavilion is lit at night but it is possible to get away from the light on the adjacent oval.

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Facilities: The facilities are only open for sporting events, however it’s conveniently close to overnight accommodation in town.

Mobile coverage (Telstra): Good.

Sky Quality Meter Reading: No reading has been made at this location yet. What is a Sky Quality Meter Reading?

Looking for Other Observing Sites?

If you’d like to travel further out from town for some stargazing there are some more great locations for observing.

Katrine Crossing Camp Ground

Only 14kms west of Northam on the corner of Northam-Toodyay and Katrine Roads, there’s a lovely stargazing location. It’s right by the Avon River, quiet and set back off the Northam-Toodyay Road. In amongst the trees, some clearings allow good spaces to view the night sky. There are toilet facilities.

Buckand Estate

There’s also historic Buckland Estate where you can book in to camp or stay in the manor. The owners of the 1836 stately Victorian Georgian manor welcome travellers with telescopes. Bookings are essential. The Estate is 12.5kms north of Northam which provides secluded darkness for stargazing weekend getaways.

Wundowie Town Oval

Close to Perth in the town of Wundowie, the local oval is good for stargazing. There is some ambient light from the nearby school and some of the streetlights, but it makes an easy-to-access location for a fun night with telescopes.

Sky Quality Meter Reading: 18.71 magnitude per arcsecond² recorded at 10.22pm on 26th January 2026. Please note that this reading was taken with a 53% illuminated moon setting in the west. What is a Sky Quality Meter Reading?