Gold Coast Hinterland Photography Workshop
Mount Barney · Lamington NP · Currumbin & Fingal Coastline
Two Editions — May & August 2026
Join Priority ListDuration
Group Size
Workshop Price*
Dates
*AU$450 deposit · Early-Bird ends after first 2 bookings
Why Join in 2026?
Our May and August editions cover contrasting Milky Way orientations — from crisp east-rising skies in May to west-setting arches in August — paired with the Gold Coast’s most iconic seascapes, hinterland peaks and waterfalls. Each trip is timed for optimal conditions, with cool winter nights, flowing waterfalls and uncrowded sunrise spots. You’ll capture everything from starry skies over Mount Barney to silky cascades in Lamington National Park and wave-washed basalt at Currumbin and Fingal.
With Bortle-3 skies, <50% humidity and reliable trade winds, both editions offer clear nightscapes, star-trails and timelapse potential. Combined with expert tuition, small-group mentoring and seamless logistics, this workshop gives you the fastest way to elevate your Milky Way and landscape skills in just five days.
Workshop Logistics
- Arrival: Complimentary pick-up from Brisbane Airport on Day 1 (by 12:00 PM latest).
- Departure: Drop-off back to Brisbane Airport by 1:00 PM on Day 5.
- Transport: All ground transport is included, covering Mount Barney, Lamington NP, Currumbin, and Fingal shoots.
- Accommodation: Private rooms in a central hinterland lodge. Shared communal space for editing sessions.
- Meals: Breakfast included. Local cafes for lunch and dinner (group dinners encouraged).
- Gear support: Star trackers and spare tripods available on request.
Signature Shoot Locations
Mount Barney
Dramatic volcanic peak for sunset and Milky Way-set compositions.
Elabana Falls
Silky cascades framed by ancient rainforest greens.
Moran Falls
Golden-hour side-light over a 100-metre plunge.
Currumbin Rock
Wave-washed basalt ledges and pastel dawn colour.
Fingal Causeway
Hexagonal basalt columns reflecting the Milky Way.
5-Day Itinerary Outline
| Day | Key Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 (Arrival) | 15:00 lodge check-in · Sunset & blue-hour at Mount Barney · Night briefing · Optional star trails |
| Day 2 | Sunrise over Barney · Elabana Falls long-exposures · Lightroom/PS session · Milky Way at Moran Falls lookout |
| Day 3 | Pre-dawn seascapes at Currumbin · Editing masterclass · Fingal Causeway astro |
| Day 4 | Lamington NP waterfalls · Post-processing lab · Sunset over hinterland peaks |
| Day 5 (Departure) | Sunrise recap shoot · Image critique · 11:00 check-out & airport drop-offs |
Pricing & Booking
All-Inclusive Experience
Secure your place with an AU$450 deposit – balance due 30 days before.
Reserve Your Spot*Early-Bird applies to first two bookings or until 30 Nov 2025
FAQs
What fitness level is required?
Walks of 2–3 km on uneven terrain with your gear. We break often and pace to the slowest walker.
What's the cancellation policy?
Cancel 60+ days out for a full refund. Inside 60 days, partial credit applies if we fill your place. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What gear should I bring?
DSLR/mirrorless, 14–24 mm f/2.8, sturdy tripod, remote shutter, ND filters. Star trackers supplied on-site.
Is there power & reception?
All lodgings have mains power. 4G reception is available everywhere except the deepest rainforest gullies.
What about wet weather?
Clouds = extended editing labs; rain = dramatic waterfalls. We pivot plans and supply wet-weather guidance.
Can beginners join?
Absolutely. If you understand basic Manual-mode controls, we’ll tailor tuition to level you up fast.
Are drones allowed?
Yes, under CASA rules: 30 m from people, <120 m height, line-of-sight. Regulations reviewed on-site.
Capture the Magic of the Gold Coast Hinterland
Join an intimate 4-person workshop and master astro & landscape techniques.
Book NowTestimonials
"Dylan has put a lot of time and effort into this workshop. He is easy to understand and ensures each student gets the time they need to grasp the concepts. I really appreciated that there were only four students—Dylan spent plenty of time with each of us. The follow-up eBooks he created and published are a terrific way to reinforce the weekend and make sure the new techniques and knowledge really stick. Thank you Dylan—I really enjoyed the weekend and can’t wait to see what’s next."
– Jo
"I've done quite a few workshops with Dylan. The planning that Dylan goes into to find great locations and getting the time right for the best light is brilliant. Milky Way sessions are just fantastic!"
– Terry Mugavin
"Knighty's Astro photography session was an amazingly transformative and immersive experience as a beginner photographer... I came back with marvellous photos and newfound confidence."
– Amber
"Highly recommend Knighty’s Photography! You won’t be disappointed! I’ve done a few private workshops with Dylan over the last five years and it’s been great! Looking forward to my next workshop with Dylan!"
– Wendy K.
"It was a great night – fantastic location, and great tips to get the most out of the night sky."
– Linda
"The workshop was excellent. Dylan was very knowledgeable and professional. He went over and above to ensure we all had a great experience."
– Nikon School Attendee
"I would highly recommend a Nikon School Workshop and Dylan Knight. He followed up with extra resources and provided a professional experience from start to finish."
– Nikon Workshop Participant
"I was absolutely stoked with the workshop... Dylan clarified a lot of the questions I had. Would love to do this again!"
– Workshop Participant