Cape Wickham Lighthouse
687 Cape Wickham Rd, Wickham TAS 7256, Australia
Name and Location
The Cape Wickham Lighthouse is located on King Island, Tasmania, Australia. It stands at an elevation of approximately 37 meters (121 feet) above sea level.Construction and History
The Cape Wickham Lighthouse was built in 1861 as part of a series of beacons erected to improve navigation in Australian waters during the reign of Queen Victoria. The tower was designed by architect James Barnet and features a distinctive Gothic Revival style.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse is constructed from local stone and ironwork, with a striking lantern room featuring a Fresnel lens that once guided mariners through treacherous coastal waters.
Light and Navigation
Although the Cape Wickham Lighthouse is no longer actively guiding mariners, its Fresnel lens remains an important part of maritime history.
Accessibility and Visiting
- Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby parking area.
- Guided tours are available during peak season.
- The site offers basic on-site facilities, including parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.
For more information, please contact the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service or visit their website.
Notable Views and Landscape
The lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and Bass Strait.
Anecdotes and Folklore
Unfortunately, no anecdotes or folklore are available for this lighthouse at this time.
Technical and Operational Details
Automated in 1971, the Cape Wickham Lighthouse remains an important cultural and historical landmark on King Island.
Details
Name | Cape Wickham Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | |
Country | Australia |
Coordinates | -39.5885737, 143.9429774 |
Year of construction | 1861 |
Stories | testament to Tasmania's rich maritime history |
Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
Architect | James Barnet |
Construction material | local stone and ironwork |
Focal height | 37 |
Tower height | 12 |
Renovations | automated in 1971 |
Access description | by car, walk from parking area |
Accessible | true |
Parking | true |
View description | stunning views of the surrounding coastline and Bass Strait |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | parking, restrooms, picnic areas |
Opening hours | 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily |
Automated | true |