Low Isles Light

The Low Isles Light, also known as Low Islets Light or Low Island Light, is an active lighthouse located on Low Island, a coral cay which together with Woody Island forms the Low Isles group.

History

• Built in 1878, it was the first lighthouse in Far North Queensland and more specifically the first to light the Inner Passage of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Construction of the lighthouse began after a recommendation in February 1876, but started over a year later with W. P. Clark as the lead builder.
• The structures were completed by late 1878, and the original oil wick light was upgraded to kerosene in 1923, followed by electricity in 1963, and finally converted to solar power in 1993 when the station was demanned.

Architecture

The Low Isles Light is a timber frame lighthouse clad with galvanized iron. It features a compact circular pattern of structures due to the size of the island.

The original lighthouse design is typical of Queensland lighthouses from that time period, but it is notable for being the first to use portholes.

Light Characteristics

The Low Isles Light emits a white light with a range of 17 nautical miles and a period of 10 seconds.

Its characteristic pattern is Fl (first order).

Current Status

The lighthouse is currently an automated station, no longer manned by keepers.

The site can be visited, but the tower is closed to the public.

Location and Accessibility

The Low Isles Light is located on Low Island, a coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef, approximately 13 kilometres northeast of Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia.

The island is accessible via boat or plane, with the nearest airport being Port Douglas Airport.

Heritage Status

The Low Isles Light is listed as a heritage site due to its historical significance and architectural importance.

Notable Historical Events

The Low Isles Light played a crucial role in the early navigation of the Great Barrier Reef.

Its construction marked an important milestone in the development of maritime safety in Far North Queensland.