Shining a light on Bruny landmark

AUSTRALIA’S southern most lighthouse is open to the public for the first time in 177 years.

AUSTRALIA’S southern most lighthouse at Bruny Island is open to the public for the first time since it was commissioned 177 years ago.

Craig Parsey’s parents were the lighthouse keepers at Cape Bruny when he was a child and he is now happily sharing his experiences of growing up in such an unusual environment.

“It’s like going back home every day,” Mr Parsey said.

“I’ve been wanting to talk to people about lighthouse life and what it was like growing up there.

“I tell people about the responsibilities living there. For example, you had to light the kerosene lamp half an hour before sunset.”

Craig Parsey takes in the view from the Cape Bruny lighthouse, where he lived as a child. Picture: KIM EISZELE

The history of the lighthouse is also explained.

“It was built by convict labour and completed in 1838. It’s made from dolerite, a local stone,” Mr Parsey said.

He said once visitors climbed the stairs to the top they were 114m above the sea.

“It’s mind-blowing, the views out over the cliffs and out to the Tasman Sea,” he said.

“It’s one of the best views in Tasmania with the rugged coastline.”

Cape Bruny lighthouse will be open to the public for the first time since it was first commissioned 177 years ago. Picture: KIM EISZELE

Visitors can also look at the working mechanisms and walk the external balcony.

Mr Parsey’s family also looked after the lighthouses at Maatsuyker Island, Eddystone Point and Low Head during the 1970s.

Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Services granted a five-year licence to operate the lighthouse tours on Bruny Island.

The tours are one of the new experiences being offered by Bruny Island Safaris, which has been running tours on the island for three years.

Cape Bruny lighthouse was replaced by a solar-powered light and decommissioned in August 1996.

It’s a long climb to the top.

The lighthouse was completed in 1838.