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Cape Jaffa lighthouse
Title : Cape Jaffa lighthouse Cape Jaffa lighthouse
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Source : PRG 280/1/1/70, Searcy Collection
Date of creation : 1903
Format : Photograph
Contributor : State Library catalogue
Catalogue record
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Copyright : Reproduction rights are owned by State Library of South Australia. This image may be printed or saved for research or study. Use for any other purpose requires permission from the State Library of South Australia. To request approval, complete the Permission to publish form.
Description :

The lighthouse at Cape Jaffa on Margaret Brock reef. This is a screw pile construction, manufactured in England and was shipped in parts for re-assembly on site. Construction of the light took longer than expected due to poor weather conditions and because of drilling through the reef. The light was first used 15 January 1872 and was reportedly visible 25 miles in good weather.

The original multi-wick oil burner was replaced by a pressurised kerosene burner in 1909. This lighting apparatus was turned off in 1973 when the lighthouse was closed. It is believed to have been the last of its type to operate in Australia.

The light was replaced by one at Cape Dombey in 1973. The National Trust were able to obtain the lighthouse structure and erect it in the town of Kingston as a museum.

The platform for the Cape Jaffa lighthouse has been saved by an Act of Parliament and is a nesting place for the Australasian gannet.

Subjects
Coverage year : 1903
Period : 1884-1913
Place : Cape Jaffa
Region : South East
Further reading :
Parsons, Ronald. Lighthouses of South Australia Magill, S. Aust.: R. Parsons, c1985
Ibbotson, John. Lighthouses of Australia: images from the end of an era Surrey Hills, Vic.: Australian Lighthouse Traders, 2001
Internet links :
Exhibitions and events :

State Library of South Australia: Mortlock Wing exhibitions. Wooden Walls and Iron Sides August 2004-


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