Deal Island Lighthouse

The Deal Island Lighthouse has been guiding mariners through the waters of Tasmania since its construction in 1859.

History

• The lighthouse stands at a height of 22 meters (72 feet) above sea level, with a total tower height of 30 meters (98 feet).
• The focal height, which is the distance from the base of the lens to the center of the light, reaches an impressive 40 meters (131 feet).

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in the late 19th century.

Light Characteristics

• The Deal Island Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 15 nautical miles.
• The light pattern is a steady, unbroken beam that can be seen from a distance of several kilometers.

Current Status

The lighthouse serves as a museum and popular tourist destination for visitors to Tasmania's Flinders Council.

Location and Accessibility

• Located on Deal Island in the Bass Strait, the lighthouse is accessible by boat or via a short walk from the nearby town of Flinders.
• The island itself is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognized for its unique and diverse ecosystems.

Heritage Status

The Deal Island Lighthouse was listed as a heritage site in 2007, recognizing its historical significance as an important aid to navigation and its contribution to Tasmania's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding Allied ships through the treacherous waters of the Bass Strait.
• The structure's light was also used by Australian forces during the war, serving as a beacon for naval vessels and aircraft.

Architecture

The lighthouse features a cylindrical body and a square lantern room at the top, characteristic of mid-19th-century lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Deal Island Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 15 nautical miles.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in the late 19th century.