Kiama

Australia

Continuous local commercial pressure especially after the construction of Kiama Harbour led to tenders being called for the construction of the lighthouse in 1886. The manmade harbour serviced Kiama’s supply of crushed blue metal and paving blocks for the streets of Sydney.
The tower, built on Blowhole Point, is constructed of brick and rendered outside with concrete.
The original apparatus was an oil burner with a catadioptric fixed lens producing a 600 candela green light that was visible for nine miles.
This was upgraded to the local town coal gas in 1908 with an intensity of 1,500 candelas and a range of fifteen miles.
This was further upgraded to acetylene gas and group flashing in 1920. At this point the light was demanned, though Brewis stated in 1913 that the light was unwatched, the keeper’s cottage being vacant.
In 1969 the light was converted to 240v mains electricity with battery back up.
The light source was converted to LED array in 2018. The original Chance 4th order lens remains in use.

Manufacture Date 1886
Lighthouse Construction 1887
Country Australia
Commissioning Body NSW Government
Lens Order 4th order
Lens Type Fixed
Status publish
Light Character Grp. Fl. White (4) 20 secs
Lighthouse Markings White masonry tower.
Lighthouse Parts 4th Order Chance lantern
Management Body Ports Authority NSW Maritime
Coastal Erosion Vulnerability
Condition Observations The lighthouse is an active light and is maintained by NSW Maritime. It remains in good condition.
Open Status (Site) Open
Open Status (Tower) Closed
Coordinates -34.6718256558,150.86258401
Other The lighthouse stands adjacent to the Kiama blowhole. The reserve is open all year round, just a short walk or drive from the Kiama town centre. ARLHS AUS-236; Admiralty K2598; NGA 6496.

Lighthouse Location

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