South West Vernon Island Lighthouse

The South West Vernon Island lighthouse is a historic maritime aid located on South West Vernon Island in the Northern Territory of Australia.

History

• The lighthouse has been an important navigation aid for mariners traversing the waters of the Arafura Sea since its construction.
• The lighthouse was built in 1910 by the Australian Government as part of the North West Coast Lighthouses project.

Architecture and Construction

The lighthouse stands at a height of 8 meters (26 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 20 meters (66 feet).

The tower is constructed from stone and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a fixed white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles.

The light pattern is a rotating beam that sweeps the horizon at intervals of 10 seconds.

Current Status

The South West Vernon Island lighthouse is currently no longer an active aid to navigation, having been replaced by modern electronic aids in the 1980s.

However, it remains a popular destination for tourists and enthusiasts of maritime history.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is located on South West Vernon Island, which is part of the Northern Territory's coastline.

The island can be accessed by boat or plane, with regular ferry services connecting to the mainland.

Visitors can also reach the island via charter flights from Darwin Airport.

Heritage Status

The South West Vernon Island lighthouse has been listed on the Australian Government's National Heritage List since 2004,

recognizing its cultural and historical significance as a surviving example of early 20th-century maritime architecture in Australia.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the lighthouse played an important role in the Allied war effort,

serving as a navigation aid for convoys traveling through the Arafura Sea.

The lighthouse's location also made it vulnerable to Japanese attack,

and it was reportedly damaged during one such incident in 1942.

Visiting Information

Due to its remote location, visiting the South West Vernon Island lighthouse requires careful planning and preparation.

Visitors are advised to book charter flights or ferry services in advance,

as access to the island is limited.