Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse turns it on for International Lighthouse Weekend

Media release: 19 August 2014

Over 500 people braved last weekend’s wintery conditions to celebrate International Lighthouse Weekend 2014 at Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse in Myall Lakes National Park at Seal Rocks village, north of Newcastle.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Great Lakes Area Manager Stephen Smith said that the weekend was a great opportunity to showcase the much-loved historic lighthouse precinct,  and for visitors to discover a little more about its’ history and significant role it played during the bustling shipping days of the past.

Mr. Smith said “Over the weekend, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority treated visitors to a unique opportunity to view inside light tower on a guided tour.

“Participants enjoyed learning about life as a keeper, and how several ships met their tragic end at Seal Rocks”, he said.

 “The Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse was first opened in December 1875 and although automated in 1995, remains an important navigational aid for mariners today.

“In addition to the tours, the Great Lakes Radio Club members were on site and made two-way radio contact with other lighthouses around Australia and overseas including New Zealand, Spain and America.

“With Ospreys circling overhead, the weekend was also a great chance to launch the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse photograph competition, in one of the most spectacular photographic locations on the mid-north coast

“Photographers of all ages are encouraged to capture their experience at the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, including the wildlife, landscapes and international lighthouse day.

“There’s some great prizes to be won, including a night’s accommodation in one of the sumptuous heritage-listed Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse Cottages, so send your photographs to rachel.kempers@environment.nsw.gov.au by 25 August 2014 for your chance to win”, said Mr. Smith.

International Lighthouse and Lightships Weekend is celebrated around the world, and aims to raise the awareness of the important role Lighthouses, and promote the preservation of these unique places in history.

Images from weekend here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/9107737@N07/sets/72157646582324245/

Contact: Lawrence Orel