Old Caloundra Lighthouse

The lighthouse was made in the traditional Queensland style of timber frame with corrigated iron cladding. ( 5th of 8 in this style). It was built by local labour. It marked the entrance to the North West channel into the Port of Brisbane, also serving as a habour light. The original light source was a fixed kerosene lamp ( ? manufacturer).

The lighthouse was attended by a single lighthouse keeper living in a cottage next to the lighthouse. The house was also the postal office with a telegraph service. Carl Walter was the first keeper.

1910 the apparatus was upgraded to an incandescent vapour kerosene lamp, from Chance Brothers (first of its type in Queensland). Intensity 1,400 cd

1942 converted to electricity from the mains and automated. The coastal Artillary took control of the lighthouse,
After the war the lighthouse remained unmanned, in contact with Brisbane by phone. as the mains electricity was unreliable it meant a trip of several hours to reinstate the light, Eventually a local man, Charlie bigg was employed to attend the lamp.

1946 Lighthouse keeper's house sold and moved

1950 Lighthouse fenced off from the public park

1967 New Lighthouse built next to Old lighthouse

1968 New lighthouse operational, Old lighthouse deactivated

1970 Old lighthouse moved to Woorim Park, Golden Beach . There were no preservation funds so it deteriorated.
In order for funding for preservation the Old Lighthouse needed to be registered by Queensland Heritage Register, which waqs only possible if it was in its original location.

1992 New Lighthouse deactivated so the Old Lighthouse could be relocated alongside.

1999 Relocation attempted by the ground section below first floor fell away as it was lifted. the insurance paid for the restoration and 11th June the lighthouse was moved back to its original site. The lantern was placed back in the tower.

2001 opened to the public.