Barrenjoey Lighthouse

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Barrenjoey headland, at the northern end of Palm Beach, New South Wales.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1881 and was completed in 1882.
• The tower was designed by James Barnet and constructed using sandstone.
• The lighthouse has been an important aid to navigation for mariners entering Sydney Harbour since its construction.

Architecture

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is a 91-metre (299 ft) tall tower, with a focal height of 113 metres (371 ft).

• The lighthouse features a distinctive square base and a four-storey tower, with a lantern room at the top.
• The lighthouse is constructed from sandstone and has a characteristic octagonal shape.

Light Characteristics

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen for up to 19 nautical miles (35 km).

• The light is displayed in a flanking sequence, with four flashes every two minutes, followed by ten flashes every minute.

Current Status

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is currently an automated aid to navigation, meaning it operates independently without human intervention.

• The lighthouse has been upgraded over the years to improve its efficiency and effectiveness.

Location and Accessibility

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is located on Barrenjoey headland, at the northern end of Palm Beach, New South Wales.

• Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby Barrenjoey Track.
• The track offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the surrounding coastline.

Heritage Status

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse is listed on the New South Wales Heritage Register, recognizing its importance as an example of late 19th-century maritime architecture.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse played a significant role in the Allied invasion of Australia.
• The lighthouse was used to guide Allied ships into Sydney Harbour and provided critical navigation assistance during the war.