Look up! An unusually high full moon will shine above Melbourne this week
The start of winter was action-packed up in the skies above Victoria, with a spectacular light display by nature (the Aurora Australis) sparkling over the state on the very first day of the season. Now, we'll be treated to another celestial sight, with this month's Strawberry Moon set to be the highest full moon over Australia since 2006. Here's how you can catch the final full moon before the winter solstice in June.
When is the Strawberry Moon in Victoria 2025?
The Strawberry Moon will reach its full peak on Wednesday, June 11 at 5.43pm, Melbourne time.
While it technically peaks in the early evening, we expect viewing will be best after sunset – so rug up, head outside and admire the bright glow of the moon late into the night. You can find the exact time the full moon will peak where you live here.
What is a Strawberry Moon?
A Strawberry Moon is the name given to the full moon that happens in June each year. Despite the name, the moon doesn't actually glow pink or red. The name originates from Native American traditions, where the June full moon signalled the start of wild strawberry harvest season in parts of North America.
The 2025 Strawberry Moon is getting extra attention thanks to a rare astronomical event called the major lunar standstill. This event happens once every 18.6 years and causes the moonrise and moonset to occur at the most extreme northern and southernmost points. In the Northern Hemisphere, the moon will appear unusually close to the horizon over the day/evening, marking the lowest-hanging moon since 2006.
Down here in the Southern Hemisphere, it's the opposite. We'll witness the highest full moon of the year, which means it'll be furthest from the horizon and closest to the zenith (that's the 'highest' point in the sky directly overhead). The next major lunar standstill will only happen in 2024.
How to see the June full moon from Melbourne
Although it's the highest full moon in almost two decades, the Strawberry Moon should still be visible to the naked eye – so long as there are clear skies. We suggest finding a place far away from the city lights, as the darker the area you are viewing it from, the better. You can use our handy guide to the best spots for stargazing spots in Melbourne.
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