More on the Tacking Point Lighthouse
A coastal town such as Port Macquarie wouldn’t be quite the same without a lighthouse, and the one that is here is small, but mighty. Visitors to the area will want to see Tacking Point Lighthouse, which is situated on the headland at none other than Tacking Point. It is the 3rd oldest lighthouse in all of Australia, and named for its location. Explorer Matthew Flinders named this area in 1802. He chose the name because he just happened to sail through the area to change out his tack.
The history of Tacking Point is colorful and interesting. Many people had complained that a lighthouse was sorely needed in this area for quite some time before one was finally built. There were not very many lights in this area, and Tacking Point was a place that most ships had found very difficult to maneuver around due to the very rocky shore. As a result, there was a large number of shipwrecks here, more than 20 all told. The decision was made to construct a lighthouse.
Tacking Point Lighthouse was designed by James Barnet, a noted lighthouse designer, and built by the team of Shepard and Mortley. Construction began in 1879, and the end result was a structure that was 17 feet high, and made of cement rendered bricks. The light that was placed inside the lighthouse was a fixed light which was no more than 1000 candelas. In 1919, the light was changed over to an oil light with a wick, and then eventually to lights that flashed automatically, and were powered by automatic acetylene.
When this change took place in 1919, the loyal lighthouse keeper was out of work. He had done this job for around 40 years, and had his own little home just a small distance away from the lighthouse. It must have been quite a blow to this man to have to leave a job he had filled for so long, and had probably grown quite fond of. Today, the house’s foundation is still there beside the lighthouse.
For visitor who enjoy sightseeing and spectacular scenic views, along with the occasional glimpse of a whale or dolphin, Tacking Point is the place to be. There is something to be seen from every direction, such as Port Macquarie itself, other lighthouses, and an expanse of beach that is breathtaking. Surfing is very popular in this area, and there is always a panoramic view of color and movement from Tacking Point.
Tours of this local landmark lighthouse are offered daily, and while you are in the area, you may want to check out the Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club. There is also a Tacking Point Tavern and a Tacking Point Restaurant for your convenience when visiting the area.
Tacking Point Lighthouse is classified by the National Trust of America, which is quite an honor. Make sure you take the time during your holiday in Port Macquarie to pay a visit to this small brick tower that has saved countless lives over the years.
