Name and Location

2. Construction and History

Built in 1852, the Port MacDonnell Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in South Australia. Designed by architect James Barnet, it was constructed using local granite and sandstone. The lighthouse's unique combination of Gothic Revival and Italianate styles makes it a prime example of Victorian-era architecture.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at 18 meters (59 feet) tall, with a focal height of 45 meters (148 feet) above sea level. It was originally equipped with a fifth-order Fresnel lens, which was replaced in 1920 with a more modern optic.

4. Light and Navigation

Today, the Port MacDonnell Lighthouse still functions as an active aid to navigation, guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse and surrounding area via Cemetery Road, located in the town of Port MacDonnell. The lighthouse is managed by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and is listed on the South Australian Heritage Register.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Southern Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The area is also popular for fishing, swimming, and birdwatching.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Interestingly, the Port MacDonnell Lighthouse has played a significant role in local folklore and history. According to local legend, the lighthouse was built on sacred Indigenous land, which had been used for centuries by the Kaurna people. The construction of the lighthouse led to the displacement of the Indigenous population and the destruction of their traditional way of life.

8. Technical and Operational Details

Notably, the Port MacDonnell Lighthouse has played a crucial role in local history. In 1857, a shipwreck occurred off the coast of Cape Northumberland, resulting in the loss of several lives. The lighthouse's proximity to the wreck site meant that it played a significant role in the subsequent rescue efforts.

9. Further Information

• Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). (n.d.). Port MacDonnell Lighthouse.
• South Australian Heritage Register. (n.d.). Port MacDonnell Lighthouse.
• Wikipedia. (2022). Port MacDonnell Lighthouse.