Cape Moreton Lighthouse

The Cape Moreton Lighthouse is situated on Cape Moreton, a rocky headland located at the north eastern tip of Moreton Island, a large sand island on the eastern side of Moreton Bay, in South East Queensland, Australia. The lighthouse can be accessed via Eagers Creek - Blue Lagoon Road.

History

The Cape Moreton Light was established following an increase in traffic through the northern entrance to Moreton Bay in the 1840s. It was designed by Edmund Blacket in 1854 and constructed between 1855 and 1857, making it the oldest lighthouse in Queensland. The lighthouse is also the only one built by the New South Wales Government before the separation of Queensland, which took place in 1859.

Architecture

The lighthouse is made of sandstone and features a concrete gallery and a cast iron lantern. The structure was rebuilt in 1928-1930, increasing its height. The three lighthouse keeper residences are timber framed and fibro clad. The lighthouse has two distinctive red bands, making it also serve as a daymark.

Light Characteristics

The Cape Moreton Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 15 nautical miles (28 km) and is visible for 20 seconds at a time. The light pattern is Fl (first order), indicating that the light flashes once every three minutes.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone several changes in its lighting technology over the years, including oil wick, kerosene, acetylene gas, and finally solar power. The station also includes various buildings, such as the three lighthouse keeper residences.

Heritage Status

The Cape Moreton Lighthouse is a heritage-listed landmark, recognized for its historical significance and architectural importance. It is also listed on the Queensland Heritage Register.

Notable Historical Events

The construction of the Cape Moreton Light was an important milestone in the development of navigation in Moreton Bay and Brisbane. The lighthouse has played a significant role in ensuring the safety of mariners and facilitating trade in the region.

• The Cape Moreton Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 15 nautical miles (28 km) and is visible for 20 seconds at a time.
• The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone several changes in its lighting technology over the years.