Old Caloundra Light

Old Caloundra Light, also known as Old Caloundra Head Light or Cape Caloundra Light, stands as a venerable sentinel over the Sunshine Coast in South East Queensland, Australia. This historic lighthouse, the oldest surviving structure in Caloundra, has a storied past that dates back to its construction in 1896. Though it no longer guides mariners, it continues to be a beacon of history and heritage, drawing visitors with its tales of the sea and its panoramic views.

The Historical Significance of Old Caloundra Light

The story of Old Caloundra Light begins with the need to illuminate the North West Channel, a crucial deep-water passage into Moreton Bay and the Port of Brisbane. In 1896, the lighthouse was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering this channel. Built with a hardwood frame and clad in corrugated iron, it was one of eight lighthouses of its kind, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the time.

The lighthouse was first lit in September 1896, with a fourth-order Chance Brothers dioptric lens and a kerosene lamp. It was attended by a solitary lighthouse keeper, whose duties extended beyond maintaining the light to managing a telegraph and postal service from the keeper's cottage. This cottage also briefly housed Caloundra's first school, making the lighthouse a hub of community activity.

In 1910, the light source was upgraded to an incandescent vapor kerosene lamp, significantly increasing its visibility. The lighthouse became a symbol of Caloundra, appearing on maps, postcards, and promotional materials. During World War II, it was commandeered by the Royal Australian Navy, which set up an observation post within its grounds.

After the war, the lighthouse was automated and managed remotely, though local resident Charlie Bigg was later engaged to attend to it due to unreliable mains electricity. By 1968, the Old Caloundra Light was decommissioned, replaced by the modern New Caloundra Light. The old lighthouse's last active power source was a 500-watt Philips lamp, casting a white light visible for 19 nautical miles and a red sector light visible for 9 nautical miles.

The Lighthouse's Journey

After its deactivation, the Old Caloundra Light faced threats of demolition. In 1970, volunteers from the Golden Beach Power Boat Club relocated it to Woorim Park, where it stood for nearly three decades. However, without funds for preservation, the lighthouse deteriorated, its iron cladding rusting and its timber frames weakening.

In the late 1990s, a campaign to save the lighthouse gained momentum. To qualify for funding and heritage registration, it needed to be returned to its original location. In 1999, after a dramatic relocation attempt that saw part of the structure break away, the lighthouse was successfully moved back to Canberra Terrace, where it was restored and reopened to the public in 2001.

Exploring Old Caloundra Light

Today, visitors to Old Caloundra Light can step back in time and explore this historic structure. The lighthouse stands 11.5 meters tall, its conical form a distinctive feature of Queensland lighthouses of the era. The tower is painted white, with a red border on the entry door and a red-domed lantern room, accessed by a lead-lined hatchway.

Inside, two platforms are connected by stepladders, and the gallery offers stunning views over the coast. The metal lantern room, supported by cast-iron brackets and surrounded by a lightweight tubular balustrade, is a highlight of the structure. Though the original lens has been removed, the pedestal remains, a silent witness to the lighthouse's storied past.

Adjacent to the old lighthouse stands the New Caloundra Light, a modern structure that continues to serve mariners. Together, these two lighthouses offer a fascinating contrast between the past and the present, making the site a must-visit for history enthusiasts and lighthouse aficionados alike.

Preservation and Public Access

The preservation of Old Caloundra Light is a testament to the dedication of the local community and the Friends of the Caloundra Lighthouses Inc. This group, established in 2007, has worked tirelessly to maintain the lighthouse and its surroundings. In 2012, they signed a three-year license with the Sunshine Coast Council, ensuring the site's continued accessibility to the public.

Visitors can explore both the old and new lighthouses, with guided tours offering insights into their history and significance. The site is accessible year-round, providing an opportunity to learn about Caloundra's maritime heritage and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views.

In conclusion, Old Caloundra Light is more than just a historical monument; it is a symbol of resilience and community spirit. Its journey from a vital navigational aid to a cherished heritage site is a story worth discovering, making it an essential stop on any visit to Caloundra. Whether you're a history buff, a lighthouse enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, Old Caloundra Light has something to offer.