Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Heritage Management Plan 2022
Executive Summary
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Executive Summary
Placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004, Cape Leeuwin Lightstation contributed to the establishment of marine Aids to Navigation (AtoN) along the Western Australian coastline. The lighthouse is known for its original lens array and mercury bath system, aesthetics, and its inherent characteristics of a late nineteenth century lighthouse complex.
Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse was listed on the Western Australia state heritage database in 2005 for its aesthetic, historic, scientific and social value, in addition to its significant rarity and representation.
Built in 1896, the lightstation is situated approximately nine kilometres south of Augusta along the Australian south-west coast. The lightstation comprises of a lighthouse tower, three keepers’ cottages, an education centre/office, staffroom and store shed. The larger part of the lightstation is managed by the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). The lightstation is open to visitors all year.
Although the lighthouse remains fitted with its original lens array and mercury float pedestal, it now operates on an automated mechanism as part of AMSA’s network of AtoNs. The equipment is serviced by AMSA’s maintenance contractor who visits at least twice each year. AMSA officers visit on an ad hoc basis for auditing, project and community liaison purposes.
This heritage management plan concerns the lighthouse, however it also addresses the management of the surrounding precinct and land. The plan is intended to guide AMSA’s decisions and actions. AMSA has prepared this plan to integrate the heritage values of the lightstation in accordance with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act), and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000 (Cth) (EPBC Regulations).
Well-built and generally well-maintained, the lighthouse precinct is in relatively good, stable condition. The policies and management guidelines set out in this heritage management plan strive to ensure the Commonwealth heritage values of Cape Leeuwin Lightstation are recognised, maintained and preserved for future generations.
A photograph containing a white lighthouse tower against a grey sky. Figure 2. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Western Australia (© AMSA, 2017)
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