>> Click to enlarge << The 1901 Cape Byron Lighthouse is located at the ... Photo by: Ken Ohlsson

Australia’s Cape Byron Lighthouse has been named the 2021 Heritage Lighthouse of the Year by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).

>> Click to enlarge << Cape Byron's lens. Photo by: Ken Ohlsson

Coinciding with World Aids to Navigation Day, on July 1, 2021, the Cape Byron Lighthouse received the prestigious global heritage award for its rarity, aesthetic characteristics, cultural significance, architecture and strong connection to the local community.

Located on a towering headland on Australia’s most eastern point and surrounded by coastal beaches, Cape Byron Lighthouse—Australia’s most powerful aid to navigation (2.2 million candle power)—has proudly stood over the town of Byron Bay as a local landmark for more than 120 years.

The light station is managed and operated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and is owned by New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service.

AMSA Chief Executive Officer Mick Kinley said, “Cape Byron Lighthouse continues to stand as a vital aid to navigation for mariners at sea after 120 years, using much of the original equipment and technology of the early 20th century. The title of Lighthouse of the Year allows the tower’s historical, architectural, technical and social significance to be truly celebrated on an international platform. This is not just a win for Australia and Byron Bay—but for all lighthouses and AtoNs around Australia, as their history and stories are etched into the psyche of many coastal communities.”

The lighthouse was named the 2021 winner over 29 other submissions from 18 IALA member nations. Three finalists were selected by the association’s Heritage Forum—including Lizard Lighthouse in England, and Palmido Lighthouse in Korea.

This story appeared in the Sep/Oct 2021 edition of Lighthouse Digest Magazine. The print edition contains more stories than our internet edition, and each story generally contains more photographs - often many more - in the print edition. For subscription information about the print edition, click here.

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