Cape Otway Lighthouse : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you looking for some interesting information about the Cape Otway Lighthouse? Are you planning a trip to this iconic lighthouse? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this blog, we will provide you with some interesting facts about the landmark and a comprehensive travel guide to this area. The Cape Otway Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Australia and is located on Victoria’s southwest coast in the Great Ocean Road region. The lighthouse was built in 1848 and is one of the most visited lighthouses in Australia. Visitors will enjoy stunning views of the Bass Strait and Victorian coastline, see interesting shipwrecks and, if lucky, glimpse some native Australian wildlife. So without further ado, let’s get to it!

Interesting Facts About Cape Otway Lighthouse

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1. The Cape Otway Lightstation is the oldest surviving and still most complete lightstation in Australia. It has been listed on the Australian National Heritage List since 1995, making it one of the country’s most important historic sites.

2. The site was first taken up by a grazier in 1841 and the lightstation was officially opened in December 1848. The original settlers were lighthouse keepers Henry and Joseph Hale.

3. The lighthouse is 65 feet high, stands on a rock cliff overlooking Bass Strait and is particularly valuable for its long and continuous service in saving the lives of seafarers.

4. The first keeper of the light was Henry Hale. Henry was an unwavering figure in the service of the station for thirty-four years before he passed away in 1883. His grave is located just to the north of the present lighthouse complex.

5. Cape Otway, along with Point Nepean and Point Lonsdale, mark the three points of Victoria’s famous ‘Gateway’ pathway for navigation along Australia’s coastline.

6. The lighthouse has been electrified on two occasions, the first in 1930 and again in 1998 when it was fully automated. During the electrification in 1998 new lighting was introduced. The Fresnel lens was removed and replaced with a 1500mm optic visible for 22 nautical miles and the more modern radio beacon was added as well.

7. The lighthouse is open to the public and visitors can enjoy spectacular views from the lighthouse towers.

8. A plaque at the base of the lighthouse honours the life of the first head keeper Henry Hale who saved at least four lives during his service at Cape Otway Lighthouse.

9. The lighthouse was used as a backdrop in the Australian made movie ‘Finding Nemo’.

10. The Cape Otway Lightstation also served as a former base of Australia’s secret Coastal Defence troops during the Second World War. The 13 separate buildings of the lightstation are all listed on the Register of the National Estate and protected by the Melbourne Heritage Register.

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History & Information About Cape Otway Lighthouse

The Cape Otway Lighthouse is located on the ruggedly beautiful south-west coast of Victoria, Australia. It is 70km south-west of Melbourne, near the town of Apollo Bay and close to the Twelve Apostles. The Cape Otway Lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, having first been lit in 1848. Prior to its construction, Cape Otway was considered one of the most treacherous places on the Australian coastline.

The lighthouse’s bright light and fog bells served as a beacon to mariners as they made their way around the dangerous headland, guiding them around Cape Otway. The lighthouse has played an integral role in protecting shipping for more than 170 years.

The lighthouse plays an important role in local history and is part of the Great Ocean Road Heritage and scenic attractions. The lighthouse is open to visitors, who can explore the area and learn about the history of the lighthouse. The visitors centre offers a guided tour as well as a range of interactive multimedia displays. It also offers stunning views of the rugged Great Ocean Road coastline, as well as the possibility of spotting some of the resident wildlife, including seals and whales.

The Cape Otway Lighthouse continues to be an important navigational aid and is recognized as a National Heritage place. It has become an iconic landmark and is one of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting Victoria.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Cape Otway Lighthouse

Cape Otway Lighthouse is an iconic landmark located in Victoria, Australia. This historic lighthouse has been standing since the mid-1800s, and it was the first lighthouse built on mainland Australia. It is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the beautiful waterfront and get a glimpse of local wildlife.

What To See At Cape Otway Lighthouse

When you visit Cape Otway Lighthouse, you’ll be given a walking tour that lasts about 1.5 hours. During the tour, you’ll visit the three levels of the tower and learn about the inspiring history and engineering of the lighthouse. You’ll also get the chance to experience its unique position, located right at the base of the magnificent Cape Otway cliffs.

In addition to the lighthouse, you’ll be able to explore the nearby areas of the cliffs, where you will be able to observe and spy on the seals, sea lions, and other wildlife that inhabit the area. The views from the top of the lighthouse can’t be beaten, and you are sure to spot a wealth of breathtaking birds in the air and on the waters below.

What Else To Do Nearby?

Aside from the lighthouse tour, there are several other activities to enjoy nearby. If you’re looking for a beach holiday, there are plenty of nearby spots perfect for relaxing in the sun. If you’re a nature-lover, you can take a walk along one of the local nature trails, or take part in a guided tour of the native rainforest. Finally, visitors can also take part in a range of scenic tours, explore the nearby Port Campbell National Park, and take a short drive out to the nearby Great Ocean Road.

Getting To Cape Otway Lighthouse

The Cape Otway Lighthouse is located about 2.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne, on the south coast of Victoria. There is a car park located near the lighthouse, and if you don’t have your own vehicle, there are several tour buses that will take you there. There is also an excellent public bus route connecting the lighthouse to other nearby destinations.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Otway Lighthouse

Q: Where is the Cape Otway Lighthouse located?
A: The Cape Otway Lighthouse is located on Victoria’s southwest coast, near the town of Apollo Bay.

Q: When was the Cape Otway Lighthouse built?
A: The Cape Otway Lighthouse was built in 1848.

Q: What is the purpose of the Cape Otway Lighthouse?
A: The Cape Otway Lighthouse is used to warn ships of the dangerous coastline and reefs of Bass Strait and the Great Australian Bight.

Q: How tall is the Cape Otway Lighthouse?
A: The Cape Otway Lighthouse is 35 meters tall.

Q: Is the Cape Otway Lighthouse open to visitors?
A: Yes, the lighthouse is open to visitors and offers guided tours.

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