Caloundra Lighthouses

Caloundra, a picturesque coastal town in the Sunshine Coast Region of Queensland, Australia, is home to a pair of lighthouses that have stood the test of time and the elements. These beacons, known as the Old Caloundra Light and the New Caloundra Light, are not just navigational aids but also historical landmarks that tell the story of the region's maritime heritage.

The Old Caloundra Lighthouse

The Old Caloundra Light, designed by Francis Drummond Greville Stanley, was constructed in 1896. This lighthouse is an excellent representation of late 19th-century lighthouse construction in Queensland, featuring a hardwood frame clad with corrugated iron. This design was both practical and cost-effective, utilizing local materials while incorporating specialized fittings from overseas.

Standing as Caloundra's oldest surviving structure, the Old Caloundra Light was more than just a beacon for mariners. It was a community hub, with the lightkeeper's cottage also functioning as a postal receiving office complete with telegraph facilities. The lightkeeper played a vital role in the community, and his presence even led to the establishment of the first school in Caloundra, conducted in his cottage in the late 1890s.

In 1910, the lighthouse was fitted with an incandescent vapour light, the first of its kind in Queensland, significantly enhancing its visibility to 22-25 miles out to sea. This made it a crucial navigational aid for ships entering and leaving the Port of Brisbane via the North West Channel. The lighthouse continued to serve as a guiding light until it was decommissioned in 1968.

The New Caloundra Lighthouse

The New Caloundra Light was constructed in 1968 to replace its predecessor. This modern structure was designed to meet the evolving needs of maritime navigation with advanced technology and a more robust construction. The New Caloundra Light served as an operational lighthouse until 1978, when it too was decommissioned.

Despite their decommissioning, both lighthouses have been preserved thanks to strong community support. They were added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 5 February 2010, ensuring their conservation and continued prominence as landmarks in the Caloundra district.

A Beacon of History and Culture

The Caloundra Lighthouses are more than just historical structures; they are symbols of the town's rich maritime heritage. The Old Caloundra Light, in particular, has become an iconic image of Caloundra, featured in promotional materials, estate maps, tourist brochures, and postcards. Its image has endured as a significant symbol of the town, representing its history and community spirit.

Visitors to Caloundra can explore the lighthouses and learn about their fascinating history. The Old Caloundra Light, with its distinctive design and historical significance, offers a glimpse into the past, while the New Caloundra Light stands as a testament to the advancements in lighthouse technology and construction.

Exploring the Lighthouses

A visit to the Caloundra Lighthouses is a journey through time. As you approach the lighthouses, you can imagine the bustling activity of the lightkeepers and their families, the steady stream of local residents visiting the postal receiving office, and the ships navigating the North West Channel guided by the bright beams of the lighthouse.

Take a moment to appreciate the architectural beauty of the Old Caloundra Light, with its corrugated iron cladding and hardwood frame. Imagine the lightkeeper climbing the stairs to light the incandescent vapour light, ensuring it was visible to mariners far out at sea. Reflect on the lighthouse's role in the development of Caloundra, from its early days as a small coastal town to its growth as a popular tourist destination.

As you explore the New Caloundra Light, consider the advancements in lighthouse technology and the changing needs of maritime navigation. This modern structure, with its robust construction and advanced technology, represents a new era in lighthouse design and operation.

Preserving the Legacy

The preservation of the Caloundra Lighthouses is a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its heritage. The addition of the lighthouses to the Queensland Heritage Register ensures that these historical landmarks will continue to be protected and maintained for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, or simply a visitor looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Caloundra, the lighthouses offer a unique and fascinating experience. They stand as proud symbols of the town's past, guiding not just ships, but also the curious minds of those who seek to uncover the stories of yesteryears.

In conclusion, the Caloundra Lighthouses are more than just navigational aids; they are beacons of history and culture, illuminating the rich maritime heritage of Caloundra. Their preservation and continued prominence as landmarks ensure that the stories of the past will continue to be told, guiding visitors on a journey through time and history.