Chasing Light on Bruny Island, Tasmania – Aurora, Bioluminescence & the Milky Way

I embarked on a scouting trip back in March to Bruny Island, a rugged and breathtaking island off the southern coast of Tasmania. I went in search of potential workshop locations, what I found was something much more profound: a rare and unforgettable alignment of nature's most spectacular light shows.

On several crisp, clear nights, I was lucky enough to witness and photograph an otherworldly scene; the southern lights (Aurora Australis), glowing blue bioluminescence in the water, and the Milky Way arching overhead—all in one frame. It was the first time I had seen and captured all three phenomena together, and it was nothing short of surreal. Moments like this remind me why I do what I do. Standing alone under that sky, with the ocean shimmering and the cosmos dancing above—it was nature at its most awe-inspiring.

But Bruny Island's magic doesn’t end when the sun sets.

During the day I explored the island’s wild beauty, venturing into South Bruny National Park, hiked to iconic locations like the Cape Bruny Lighthouse and the Cape Queen Elizabeth rock arch and sand dunes. These aren’t just scenic locations; they are playgrounds for landscape photographers. From sweeping coastal cliffs to windswept beaches and dramatic rock formations, Bruny offers diverse compositions that stir the creative spirit.

Then there’s the wildlife. One of the unexpected highlights was photographing Bruny’s most unique resident—the rare white wallaby. To see and capture this elusive animal in its natural habitat added an extra layer of wonder to the trip. The island is teeming with photographic opportunities for nature lovers, whether it’s seabirds soaring along the cliffs or quiet moments in the forest.

From the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Adventure Bay to the hidden coves and quiet trails beyond, every corner of Bruny Island felt like a secret waiting to be discovered. This journey wasn’t just about taking photos, it was about preparing to bring others into this raw, untouched beauty and help them create their own unforgettable experiences.

This trip laid the foundation for an upcoming astrophotography workshop I’ll be launching on Bruny Island in 2026. It’s a place where you can not only learn to shoot award-worthy night skies, but also hone your skills in landscape and wildlife photography—all in one stunning, soul-restoring location.

Whether it’s chasing the aurora, walking through glowing sand under bioluminescent waves, photographing rare wildlife, or standing beneath a sky brimming with stars—Bruny Island offers something rare: a connection to the natural world that reignites both passion and purpose.