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Iron Pot Lighthouse

Fort Direction Road

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Iron Pot Lighthouse (South Arm)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Iron Pot Lighthouse

The Iron Pot Lighthouse was constructed in 1832 using convict labour.

It is the oldest lighthouse in Tasmania and the oldest original tower in Australia.

History

  • The lighthouse stands at a height of 11 metres (36 ft) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 24 metres (79 ft).
  • The tower's design features a distinctive octagonal shape, characteristic of many early Australian lighthouses.

The building is constructed from local stone and brick.

Light Characteristics

The Iron Pot Lighthouse emits a fixed white light, visible to mariners at a range of 11 nautical miles (20 km; 13 mi).

The light's pattern is not specified in available records.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated.

In recent years, the site has been used for educational and conservation purposes.

Location and Accessibility

The Iron Pot Lighthouse is situated on Iron Pot island in Storm Bay, at the mouth of the Derwent River in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.

The location can be accessed via Fort Direction Road.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse was listed as a Tasmanian Heritage Place in 1997.

It is also a protected site under the Australian Government's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Notable Historical Events

In 1977, the Iron Pot Lighthouse became the first Australian lighthouse to use solar power.

Details

NameIron Pot Lighthouse
CitySouth Arm
CountryAustralia
Coordinates-43.058846, 147.41722
Current useactive aid to navigation, educational and conservation purposes