Wadjemup Lighthouse

The light was formerly known as the Rottnest lighthouse; it now carries the name given to the island by the Noongar people. It is the second lighthouse on the site. The first was built over a nine-year period and lit in 1851. By the late 19th century it was no longer adequate for the needs of the increasing maritime traffic and a new, much taller tower was built.

The tower is built of limestone quarried on the island and was completed in 1896. The lighthouse is 38m high.

The Chance first order lens has eight panels. The illuminant was vaporised kerosene.

The lens was originally turned by a clockwork mechanism. A mercury bath and pedestal with clockwork mechanism was installed in 1929.

In 1917 lightkeepers Smith and McEachern were each granted a reward of £3 3s for their quick-thinking action when a serious bushfire broke out.

Between 1896 and 1936 there was one lightkeeper, with one or two assistants at various times. Between the time when the island was opened to visitors (about 1911) and 1936, visitors to the island could apply for a permit to visit the lighthouse and one of the keepers would give them a tour.

In 1936 the light source was converted to electricity and made semi-automatic; the two assistant keepers were withdrawn. The tours ceased at this time as it was impossible for one man to carry out his duties and be tour guide.

The light was converted to fully automatic electric operation in 1986. The electricity comes from the island’s power supply which is derived from a combination of wind, solar and diesel generation. The light was de-manned in 1990.

As at July 2022 tours are now available. If winds are high, visitors are not allowed on the gallery. It can be seen in the second photo that the balustrade has been modified so that visitors cannot climb on it; also the top of the gallery has been braced. The lighthouse had been closed for some months to allow for the removal of lead paint.

There is a story that the first three lightkeepers committed suicide. Among pharologists, this is regarded as a myth -- unfortunately this is shown on an information panel in the Rottnest museum.