New Caloundra Light

Caloundra, a charming coastal town on the Sunshine Coast in South East Queensland, Australia, is home to a unique and historically significant landmark: the New Caloundra Light. This lighthouse, with its distinctive design, stands as a testament to the evolution of maritime navigation and the rich history of the region. Nestled on Canberra Terrace, near downtown Caloundra, the New Caloundra Light offers visitors a glimpse into the past while providing stunning views of the surrounding area.

The History of New Caloundra Light

The story of the New Caloundra Light begins in the late 19th century with the construction of the original Caloundra Light in 1896. This lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships through the North West Channel into Moreton Bay and the Port of Brisbane. However, as the shipping industry evolved in the 1960s, the need for a more modern and efficient lighthouse became apparent. In response to the increased traffic of large container ships, permission was granted in 1966 for the construction of a new lighthouse, which would also serve as a signal and radar station.

The New Caloundra Light was erected in 1967 and became fully operational by 1968, replacing the old lighthouse, which was subsequently relocated to avoid demolition. This new structure was part of a series of seven concrete towers built between 1964 and 1979, including Cape Capricorn Light, Point Danger Light, New Burnett Heads Light, Fitzroy Island Light, Point Cartwright Light, and Archer Point Light. The New Caloundra Light stood out with its unique design, resembling an airport control tower, making it the only surviving example of this architectural style in Australia.

Despite its initial success, the New Caloundra Light faced challenges as the surrounding buildings in Caloundra grew taller, obstructing its visibility from certain angles. In 1978, the construction of Point Cartwright Light further reduced its significance as a coastal light, and it was downgraded to a harbor light. The harbor light remained operational until 1992, when it was moved to Wickham Point, and the signal station was replaced by a radar/microwave link. The New Caloundra Light continued to serve as a backup until it was finally deactivated in 1997.

Exploring the Structure

The New Caloundra Light is an architectural marvel, standing 14 meters (46 feet) tall with a design that closely resembles an airport control tower. The square tower supports a semicircular D-shaped observation room, with the rounded side facing east towards the sea. The lantern room, located on the roof of the observation room, is a circular structure with trapezoidal steel frame window panes on the eastern side.

The tower's base measures 2.7 meters (8 feet 10 inches) and features an entrance on the western side. Inside, a spiral concrete staircase with a steel tubular handrail leads to the observation room. Each side of the base has a rectangular window aligned with the staircase, allowing natural light to filter through. Cantilevered reinforced concrete beams support the floor of the observation room, which offers panoramic views through its continuous band of windows on the eastern side and four individual windows on the western side.

The observation room includes an enclosed toilet in the northwest corner and a central pillar with cavities linking to the roof level. A door in the southwest corner provides access to a narrow balcony that wraps around the rounded part of the room. The balcony, with its concrete floor and balustrade covered in asbestos cement sheeting rendered with pebbledash on the exterior face, offers a unique vantage point for visitors. A steel ladder with a safety grille on the northwest end leads to the flat roof, where radar and radio equipment are mounted.

Visiting the New Caloundra Light

While the New Caloundra Light was originally closed to the public, efforts by the Friends of the Caloundra Lighthouses have made it possible for visitors to explore this historic site. In 2011, the Friends of the Caloundra Lighthouses applied for a license from the Sunshine Coast Regional Council to allow public visits to the 1968 signal station and lighthouse. As of July 2012, guided tours can be arranged by contacting the Friends of the Caloundra Lighthouses, providing an opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of the lighthouse and its role in maritime navigation.

In addition to the lighthouse itself, visitors can also explore the nearby orange brick generator shed, built in 1967-1968 alongside the lighthouse. This structure, with its high-set windows and overhanging concrete roof, housed the generator that powered the lighthouse. The interior comprises two rooms: a larger generator room and a smaller room in the northwest corner.

Conclusion

The New Caloundra Light is more than just a lighthouse; it is a symbol of the region's maritime heritage and a testament to the advancements in lighthouse technology and design. Its unique structure and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. As you explore the New Caloundra Light and its surroundings, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the role this lighthouse played in guiding ships safely through the waters of Moreton Bay and the Port of Brisbane. So, the next time you find yourself in Caloundra, be sure to take a trip to Canberra Terrace and discover the fascinating story of the New Caloundra Light.