Height
5 meters
Year Built
1990
Address
Various coastal locations
The Lowdown
The Big Lighthouse honors the iconic beacons that have guided mariners along Australia's treacherous coastline for over 200 years. From the first lighthouse at Macquarie Point in 1818 to the automated towers of today, lighthouses have saved countless lives by warning ships of dangerous reefs and rocky shores. This oversized tribute celebrates both the lighthouses themselves and the keepers who once lived in isolation to tend the lights. Many historic lighthouses have become beloved landmarks, drawing visitors who want to climb their spiral stairs and gaze across the ocean.
Did you know?
"Most lighthouses are now automated"
History
Australia's first lighthouse was built at Macquarie Point in 1818. Hundreds more followed, protecting ships from the continent's dangerous coastline. Many are now heritage-listed landmarks.
More Fun Facts
- •Australia's first lighthouse was built in 1818
- •Most lighthouses are now automated
- •Lighthouse keepers often lived in extreme isolation
- •Cape Byron is Australia's most easterly lighthouse
- •Many lighthouses offer accommodation today
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit Split Point, Cape Otway, or Wilsons Promontory
- 💡Some lighthouses offer overnight stays
- 💡Cape Byron is great for whale watching
- 💡Many lighthouses have fascinating histories
- 💡Sunset and sunrise are magical at lighthouses
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculptures accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.
Big Ned Kelly
A 6-meter tall fibreglass statue of Australia's most famous bushranger, standing guard over the historic township where Ned Kelly made his last stand.
Giant Koala
A 14-meter tall bronze and fibreglass koala weighing 12 tonnes, marking the gateway to the Grampians region on the Western Highway.