Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items)

Item details


Name of item:	Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items)
Other name/s:	Byron Bay Lighthouse, Cape Byron Headland, Cape Byron Headland Reserve
Type of item:	Complex / Group
Group/Collection:	Transport - Water
Category:	Lighthouse Tower
Location:	Lat: -28.638382 Long: 153.636386
Primary address:	Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay, NSW 2481
Parish:	Byron
County:	Rous
Local govt. area:	Byron
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Tweed Byron

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	1	DP	847753
LOT	2	DP	847753
PART LOT	3	DP	847753

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
Lighthouse Road	Byron Bay	Byron	Byron	Rous	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service	State Government	20 Sep 18

Statement of significance:


	The Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is of state heritage significance as one of the last major lightstations that completed the 'highway of lights' that has illuminated the NSW coastline since the 19th century. Among the final components of the string of lights that provided protection, navigational guidance and safe passage to the important colonial shipping industry, the Cape Byron Lightstation is a representative example of the system of lightstations that collectively reflect the logistical management and technical evolution of coastal infrastructure in NSW. The design and layout of the Cape Byron Lightstation is architecturally consistent with the earlier stations but implemented technical advancements, such as precast concrete block construction and the Henry-Lepaute feu eclair lens system on a rotating mercury float mechanism, which were available at the turn of the 20th century. Today, these aspects of the Cape Byron Lightstation are considered to be rare in NSW. The Cape Byron Lightstation includes three original moveable items which contribute to the significance of the site, including the 15 inch Chance Bros & Co red sector light (1889) on a cast iron pedestal; original curved timber desk (1899-1901); and clockwork winch used to drive the lens carriage (1901). The spectacular scenery and beauty of the Cape Byron Lightstation, its siting on the most eastern point of the Australian mainland and the convergence of the natural and cultural environment on the headland is of great aesthetic significance. The evocative image of the tower standing against the expanse of the Pacific Ocean resonates with the NSW community, making the lightstation an important landmark and tourist destination in the state. What is now a recognisable and well known image both locally and internationally, the Cape Byron Lightstation is the most highly visited lightstation in Australia. The Cape Byron headland is also of great traditional and contemporary significance to the Arakwal people. As custodians of their country, the Arakwal people hold an important and active role in the joint care and management of the reserve (which incorporates the lightstation) and undertake educational initiatives at the site to promote and raise awareness of the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the cape. Named Walgun (meaning 'The Shoulder'), today the Cape Byron headland is a place where both the traditional and contemporary cultural of the Arakwal people is practiced and celebrated.
	Date significance updated: 23 Aug 18
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	Charles Harding, Cecil W. Darley
Builder/Maker:	Messrs Mitchell & King
Construction years:	1899-1901
Physical description:	Spread across a long, narrow ridgeline on the most eastern point of Australia, the historic Cape Byron Lightstation precinct consists of a lighthouse tower with entry hall and flag store; Head Keeper's Quarters and Assistant Keeper's Quarters with storerooms, privies and rear yards; and a workshop/paint/store building. A contemporary cafe building and toilet structure has been constructed off the rear wall of the Head Keeper's Quarters storeroom. The precinct is generally bound by a timber post and rail fence which closely follows the original fence alignment. Timber picket fences enclose the buildings and yards of the Head Keeper's Quarters and Assistant Keeper's Quarters. The site is generally lawned with hard paved areas for carparking and pedestrian pathways. The Cape Byron Lighthouse is a circular tower, approximately 22m in height to the top of the lantern. Built of precast concrete blocks on a mass concrete foundation, the tower includes a concrete circular staircase with metal balustrade to its upper chambers and second floor. A metal staircase continues to the lantern room. The lighthouse includes a 13 inch Chance Bros & Co lantern on a Henry-Lepaute mercury float pedestal. The lighthouse has a concrete balcony with a trachyte balustrade. The lighthouse contains a museum and the significant moveable heritage items including the 15 inch Chance Bros & Co red sector light (1889) on a cast iron pedestal; the original curved timber desk (1899-1901) and the clockwork lantern winch (1901). A flag store building adjoins the lighthouse tower with its timber pigeonholes intact. The Head Keeper's Quarters, to the south of the lighthouse tower and orientated to the east, is a stand-alone single storey building constructed of rendered precast concrete blocks with a red tile roof in the Victorian Georgian style. The quarters contains five main rooms off a central hallway as well as a kitchen, laundry and bathroom, and a detached store and privy. A verandah, with infilled corners, extends around all sides of the dwelling. The dwelling retains much of its original architraves and detailing (including rendered wall finishes, picture rails and doors). The original timber floors remain throughout the dwelling and the telephone (connecting the lighthouse and the dwelling) remains intact in the hallway. Although the original fireplace and chimneys remain, the tiling and hearth have been replaced. The kitchen, laundry and bathroom have been remodelled. To the south of the Head Keeper's Quarters, and also orientated to the east, the two Assistant Keeper's Quarters include two separate but mirror-image dwellings under the one roof. Continuing the architectural style of the precinct, the Assistant Keeper's Quarters is a single storey Victorian Georgian building constructed of rendered precast concrete blocks with a red tile roof. Each dwelling contains four main rooms off a hallway as well as a kitchen, laundry and bathroom, and a detached store and privy. A verandah, with infilled corners, extends around all sides of the dwelling. The dwellings retain much of the original architraves and detailing (including rendered wall finishes, picture rails and doors). The original timber floors remain, the corrugated ceiling remains in the main bedroom of one dwelling and the telephone (connecting the lighthouse and the dwelling) remains intact in both hallways. Although the original fireplace and chimneys remain, the tiling and hearth have been replaced. The kitchen, laundry and bathroom have been remodelled. A stand-alone workshop/paint/store building is located between the lighthouse tower and the Head Keeper's Quarters. This is a single-room structure, constructed of precast concrete blocks with a red tile roof.
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	The Cape Byron Lightstation is in good condition due to regular maintenance undertaken by the joint managing bodies of the Cape Byron Headland Reserve in line with the adopted Conservation Management Plan and Plan of Management.
	Date condition updated:15 Jun 18
Modifications and dates:	Since the clearing of vegetation and Aboriginal cultural sites from the Cape Byron headland in 1899 for the construction of the lightstation, the site has undergone little modification other than operational upgrades, building maintenance and provision of visitor facilities to the site. Modifications were undertaken at various times which served to modernise or enhance the operation and/or character of the light. The original mechanical occulting equipment was removed in July 1905 resulting in a change to the original characteristic of the light with one more favoured by mariners. The original six wick burner was replaced with a vaporised kerosene mantle in March 1914. The vaporised kerosene mantle was upgraded to a triple 55mm burner in 1922. The light was converted from kerosene to electricity in August 1959 and the keepers living on-site reduced to two. Changes were also made to living facilities (particularly kitchens, bathrooms and laundries). Although some of these changes cannot be rectified or recovered, much of the original fabric has been reconstructed or reinstated where possible since management of the site was transferred to the Cape Byron Trust in 1989 and the keepers removed. Under the joint management of the site, any contemporary modifications are undertaken with a thorough understanding of the holistic cultural heritage signifiance of the Cape Byron Lightstation, the headland and the broader Cape Byron Headland Reserve.


Current use:	Lighthouse continues to be used as a navigational aid. Maritime museum in base of lighthouse tower. Former keepers quarters' used as office, shop, Visitor Interpretation Centre, interpretation space and accommodation. Site used for tourism and recreation.
Former use:	Aboriginal land, Operational lightstation (manned and unmanned)

History

Historical notes:

For thousands of years, the Cape Byron headland has been a significant place for the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay. Traditionally known as Cavanba, the cape and its environment provided the local Aboriginal people with physical and spiritual resources which sustained both life and culture.

The Bundjalung people occupied an expansive territory, stretching along the coastline, up the Richmond River and inland. The coastal environment, the hinterland and the rainforest landscapes were rich in resources and sustained a large population within comparatively small tribal boundaries. The environment provided an abundance of marine life, plants and wildlife as food and a diversity of flora and fauna material which could be used for making tools and implements, such as shields, spears, boomerangs, containers and canoes.

As well as physical sustenance, the cape also provided sites for spiritual and cultural practice for the Bundjalung people. For Aboriginal communities, cultural practice maintains an important link between people, their country and the Dreamtime stories and ancestral spirits. These spiritual practices are maintained through rituals, dance, song and painting and are intrinsic to the health, wellbeing and continuation of the people and their traditional culture.

The crest of the Cape Byron headland provided the Bundjalung people with an elevated lookout point for economic, social and religious purposes. There are reports that the Cape Byron headland was traditionally used as an important men's site for ceremony, initiation and lore-making.

At the most easterly point of mainland Australia, Cape Byron was first observed by Captain James Cook on 15 May 1770, who subsequently named the headland after his fellow navigator Vice-Admiral John Byron, who had been the Commander of HMS Dolphin on its worldwide voyage of exploration of 1764-66. European exploration of northern NSW did not occur, however, until 1826 when Captain Henry John Rous, commander of the HMS Rainbow, explored the region seeking navigable rivers and safe anchorage. It was during this period that the first face-to-face contact between the Bundjalung people and the European settlers would have occurred.

European settlement of the Byron Bay region commenced in the 1840s with the arrival of red cedar cutters. Attracted by the rich hinterland forest and its proximity to the shipping trade, the Europeans initially maintained a peaceful relationship with the traditional owners but conflict soon arose when pastoralists entered the region, bringing land clearing and stock running with them. As the natural resources had been traditionally and harmoniously used by the Bundjalung people, the incursions into tribal territory by European settlers interrupted a delicate balance in the environment and forcibly pushed Aboriginal people from their tribal lands. With a loss of land, resources and sacred sites, coupled with disruption of the tribal organization of the Bundjalung people and an increasing reliance on European supplies, conflict ensued and the Aboriginal community was decimated by massacres and introduced diseases. As the population plummeted, the Bundjalung people could not withstand the European invasion and, by the settlement of Byron Bay in 1881, many of the surviving Aboriginal people became poorly paid workers for the European settlers as labourers, shepherds, horse breakers, guides, bullock drivers or as domestic help.

By 1883, Byron Bay was becoming a focal point for settlers and was considered the chief cedar trading centre in NSW. After the town was surveyed in 1884, land allotments became available and settlement began in earnest which further contributed to the dislocation of the Bundjalung people from their country. The permanent presence of European people on tribal land was solidified by the official renaming of Cavanba to Byron Bay and the gazettal of the township in 1896.

Across the globe, lighthouses have been constructed to safeguard shipping traffic, and the life and property they carry, from the dangers of the sea. Used as navigational aids, lighthouses serve to protect and guide mariners safely along treacherous coastlines and through harbor and river entrances. Although the colony's first lighthouse, the Macquarie Light at Sydney's South Head, was constructed in 1818, it was not until the mid 19th century that a considered uniform approach to lighthouse design was implemented across NSW.

As settlements were expanding and trade and coastal activity booming, the protection of life and property during its passage along the coast was becoming a critical issue for the colony. To address this, a powerful professional relationship was formed between Francis Hixson, Superintendent of Pilots, Lighthouses and Harbours and President of Marine Board of NSW (1863-1900), and James Barnet, Colonial Architect (1865-90), which shaped a cohesive 'highway of lights' along the NSW coastline that demonstrated both architectural and functional consistency.

Responsible for the placement of navigational aids, Hixson was reported to have advocated for an ambitious system that would illuminate the coastline "like a street with lamps" (Reid, 1988, p76). The design and construction of these lighthouses and stations, however, fell to the Colonial Architect's Office. Borrowing architectural themes established by Francis Greenway in his design of the Macquarie Light, Barnet designed a series of lightstations that provided architectural consistency while responding to the complexities and often physical isolation of each site. Made up of a central lighthouse tower flanked by Head Keepers Quarters and Assistant Keepers Quarters, each lightstation precinct also incorporated buildings and facilities for the operation and maintenance of the light as well as the permanent accommodation of the lightkeepers and their families.

In 1920, after the earlier completion of Hixson and Barnet's plan, Joshua Ramsbotham, then the Director of The Commonwealth Lighthouse Service, was said to have stated "the work done in NSW would compare favourably with anywhere in the world" (Brooks, 2001, p37).

As Cape Byron was a significant headland with deep water at its base, it was considered to be easily visible to passing mariners and a lighthouse was not initially considered necessary. However, by the 1890s, as Cape Byron was the most northern location for a lighthouse in NSW, a station was promoted as being one of the last major structures to complete Hixson and Barnet's string of coastal navigation lights along the NSW coastline. Although Barnet had retired in 1890 and the Marine Board of NSW had been disbanded, the design of the Cape Byron Liighthouse would be the first of Barnet's successor Charles Assinder Harding, specialist lighthouse architect for the Harbour and River Navigation Branch of the Public Works Department and would bear some of the hallmarks of Barnett's earlier designs. Under the direction of Cecil W. Darley, Engineer-in-Chief, and continuing the strong architectural styling of the existing Barnet lightstations, Harding designed a tower and precinct for the Cape Byron headland that was consistent with Hixson and Barnet's vision but distinctive and contemporary in its use of developing technology and construction techniques.

Taking advantage of the picturesque location and the prominence of the existing headland rising 100m above the Pacific Ocean, Harding designed a relatively short circular tower (13.5 m to the base of the lantern) at the northern end of the precinct with entrance pavilion, workroom and kerosene store located symmetrically at its base. Following the traditional hierarchy of lightstations, the tower had a commanding view across the precinct which consisted of a Headkeeper's and Assistant Keeper's Quarters' of the Victorian Georgian style, as well as a signal station, store buildings and flagstaff.

In his design of the Cape Byron Lightstation, Harding employed a contemporary construction technique of using precast concrete blocks which he had trialed during the construction of the Point Perpendicular Lightstation in 1898. Considered the prototype for NSW (although the first example was built at Point Hicks in Victoria in 1888), the use of the emerging concrete block technology at Point Perpendicular demonstrated a number of benefits for lighthouse construction as it eliminated previous dependences on scaffolding, on-site quarrying or the need to transport quality stone and skilled tradesmen to the site. Concrete was a cheaper alternative as the blocks could be cast on-site and applied in a circular form with relative ease. With inherent strength and an aesthetic appearance, Harding considered the use of precast concrete blocks to be so successful that the design of the Cape Byron Lightstation is almost an identical copy of that constructed at Point Perpendicular.

With a budget of 18,000 pounds allocated for the project in 1897, the narrow ridge of Cape Byron was cleared and leveled for the construction of the lighthouse, keepers cottages and associated structures in October 1899 and by July 1900 construction had begun by builders Messrs Mitchell & King. Having cleared an access road to the site, a 40-strong workforce completed the lightstation precinct for its formal opening by the NSW Premier, the Hon. John See on 1 December 1901. Having been fitted with a Henry-Lepaute feu eclair lightning flasher lens system on a mercury float mechanism with the light visible for 22 nautical miles, it was reported in newspapers of the time that there was not a finer station, nor one more picturesquely sited in NSW than the Cape Byron Lightstation.

The Cape Byron Lightstation was initially manned by a Head Keeper and two Assistant Keepers, who lived on the lightstation with their respective families, but after control of lighthouses in NSW was transferred to the Commonwealth Government in 1915, lightstations were gradually but progressively automated and demanned. Cape Byron Lightstation was converted from vaporised kerosene to electricity in 1959 but, as a human presence was considered beneficial at the site, coupled with the proximity of the station to the Byron Bay township, light keepers continued to operate the station until 1989.

Although Cape Byron Lightstation continues to operate as a navigational aid, care and management of the site, its cultural heritage and its landscape was transferred to the Cape Byron Trust in 1989 and today the site is carefully managed by a joint agreement between the Cape Byron Headland Reserve Trust, the National Parks & Wildlife Service and the local Arakwal people.

Today, the Cape Byron Lightstation is the most well known and highly visited lightstation in Australia. Standing on the most eastern point of Australia, the sweep of the light is clearly visible from the Byron Bay township which serves to reinforce its presence in the environment and evokes a sense of identity and 'ownership' by the local community. The headland is also a significant tourist attraction in Australia due to the unique interaction of the natural and cultural factors and the evocative image of the tower standing against a dramatic coastal environment. The architectural intactness of the buildings in its spectacularly picturesque setting serves as a potent symbol of human activity in an often wild and treacherous environment.

As well as a historic value, the Cape Byron headland has a thriving future and contemporary significance. Developed in conjunction with the tourist appeal of the site, various educational initiatives are run to raise public awareness and appreciation for the Aboriginal culture of the cape. Named Walgun by the local Arakwal people (meaning The Shoulder), these initiatives aim to explore the traditional ownership of the headland by the Bundjalung people and how the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the site are not confined to the past but are flourishing due to the joint care, control and custodianship of the reserve by the Arakwal people.

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Natural landscapes valued by humans-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Cliffs and escarpments influencing human settlement-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural - Coasts and coastal features supporting human activities-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Modification of terrain-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Environments important to Aboriginal traditional and spiritual life-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	All nations - sites evidencing occupation-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Bundjalung - understanding pre-contact Aboriginal communities-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Arakwal - sites evidencing Aboriginal significance-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Tourism-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of scenic beauty-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of cultural and natural interaction-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Industry-Activities associated with the manufacture, production and distribution of goods	Maritime related industries-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Maintaining maritime transport routes-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Lighthouse-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	State government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - administration of land-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - building and operating public infrastructure-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Federal Government-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Messrs. Mitchell and King, builders-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Charles Assinder Harding, specialsed lighthouse architect, Public Works Department-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Cecil West Darley, Engineer-in-chief, Public Works Department-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	The Cape Byron headland is of state heritage significance for its occupation by the Bundjalung people of the Byron Bay area for many thousands of years prior to European settlement. The cape and its environment provided the local Aboriginal people with physical and spiritual resources which sustained both life and culture. Constructed and lit by 1901, the Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is also of state heritage significance as one of the last major lightstations to complete the 'highway of lights' along the NSW coastline. Coastal transport of produce, goods and passengers was a booming industry and critical colonial service during the mid-to-late 19th century and installing a consistent and comprehensive network of lightstations to illuminate the coastline and provide navigational guidance to the growing maritime industry was a highly ambitious project. Ultimately successful and unique to NSW, this string of coastal lights operated throughout the 20th century and the Cape Byron Lightstation, amongst the suite of stations, continues to guide and provide safe passage to maritime industries and traffic along the NSW coastline today. The retention, display and interpretation of the significant moveable items within the lighthouse, including the 15 inch Chance Bro & Co red sector light (1889) on a cast iron pedestal; original curved timber desk (1899-1901); and clockwork winch used to drive the lens carriage (1901), contribute to the historical significance of the Cape Byron Lightstation.
SHR Criteria b) [Associative significance]	The Cape Byron headland is of local heritage significance for its association with the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay. Traditionally known as Cavanba, the cape and its environment provided the local Aboriginal people with physical and spiritual resources which sustained both life and culture. Today, this association continues with the Arakwal people who have an important role in the joint management, care and control of the Cape Byron Headland Reserve. The Cape Byron Lightstation is also of local heritage significance for its association with Charles Assinder Harding, specialist lighthouse architect for the Harbour and River Navigation Branch of the Public Works Department, and Cecil W. Darley, Engineer-in-Chief of the Public Works Department. As Colonial Architect James Barnet had retired and the Marine Board of NSW had been disbanded, Harding and Darley were responsible for the design and construction of the last lightstations that would complete the 'highway of lights'. A significant, ambitious and ultimately successful project of Francis Hixson and Barnet in the mid-late 19th century, Harding designed the Cape Byron Lightstation with architectural styling that was consistent with Barnet's earlier stations but incorporating technological advancements of the period. In the design and construction of the Cape Byron Lightstation, Harding and Darley made an important contribution to the completion of Hixson and Barnet's plan to illuminate the NSW coastline with lights and navigational aids.
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	The Cape Byron Lighthouse (including moveable items) is of state heritage significance for its aesthetic and technical values. Located within the Cape Byron Headland Reserve and sited prominently on the most eastern point of the Australian mainland, the Cape Byron Lighthouse is a relatively small but well-proportioned tower that reflects the consistent architectural design of the stations making up the 'highway of lights' along the NSW coastline. Retaining its unique French manufactured Henry-Lepaute first order lantern, bi-valve two panel lens and rotating mercury float mechanism, the Cape Byron Lighthouse is flanked by a compact group of simple Victorian Georgian buildings (including Head Keeper's and Assistant Keeper's Quarters) that are visually complementary in alignment, scale, proportion and material. It is the spectacular scenery and beauty of its location, however, that gives the Cape Byron Lightstation its great aesthetic appeal. The convergence of the natural and cultural environment and the evocative image of the tower standing against the expanse of the Pacific Ocean resonates with the NSW community, making it a landmark in the state. Technically, the Cape Byron Lightstation is also of state heritage significance as it contains Australia's only Henry-Lepaute lantern and optic on a rotating mercury float mechanism. Considered leading optical technology at the turn of the 20th century, this optical system is still in operation as a navigational aid today and its retention is of great value to the significance of the Cape Byron Lightstation.
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	The Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is of state heritage significance for its social values. As well as a historic social value to the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay, the Cape Byron headland has a thriving contemporary social significance for the Arakwal people. With a formal and active role in the joint care and management of the Cape Byron Headland Reserve (which incorporates the lightstation), the Arakwal people continue their custodianship of country and cultural practice on the site. Although the construction of the lightstation destroyed traditionally sacred and cultural sites, today's Arakwal community run educative initiatives at the headland which raise public awareness and appreciation for the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the cape. Named Walgun by the local Arakwal people (meaning The Shoulder), these initiatives aim to explore the traditional ownership of the headland by the Bundjalung people and how the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the site are not confined to the past but are flourishing due to the joint care, control and custodianship of the reserve by the Arakwal people. The Cape Byron Lightstation is also of state heritage significance for the local, national and international visitors who value the site. Today, the Cape Byron Lightstation is the most well known and highly visited lightstation in Australia. The dramatic location and picturesque nature of the lightstation has made the site a tourist destination and the image of the tower standing against the dramatic coastal environment serves as a potent and resonating symbol of human activity in an often wild and treacherous environment.
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	Within the Cape Byron Lightstation, there are opportunities to uncover further heritage values that may be of heritage significance. The Cape Byron headland, more broadly, has the ability to demonstrate the occupation of the area by the Bundjalung people of Byron Bay prior to European occupation. There is recorded evidence in the area of middens, camp sites and artefact scatters, a bora ring and possible burial sites and there is further scope to elaborate on archaeological investigations of Aboriginal cultural heritage values to reveal new information on how the Bundjalung people interacted with the landscape. Elements associated with the design, construction, early operation and occupation of the site as a lightstation may be of heritage significance. Areas of substantial historical use which have undergone little to no disturbance (such as subfloor areas, privies and tips) may retain archaeological information. The Cape Byron Lightstation includes the only example of a Henry-Lepaute feu eclair (lightning flasher) lens system on a rotating mercury float mechanism in Australia. Representing the best optical technology at the turn of the 19th century, the apparatus has technical value and could contribute to an understanding of the operation of lighthouses of the period.
SHR Criteria f) [Rarity]	The Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is of state heritage significance for its rarity values as it was only the second lightstation in NSW to be built of precast concrete blocks rather than the traditional stone material. Due to the success of the prototype at Point Perpendicular Lightstation in 1899 (although the first example was built at Point Hicks in Victoria in 1888) and the benefits and cost savings it made to lighthouse construction, the design of the Cape Byron Lightstation is almost an identical copy of that constructed at Point Perpendicular. The Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is also of state heritage significance for the rarity of its optical system. Still in operation and use today, the Henry-Lepaute 2 sided (Bi-valve) lens system on a rotating mercury float mechanism was considered to be leading optical technology of the period and its retention is of great value to the significance of the Cape Byron Lightstation.
SHR Criteria g) [Representativeness]	The Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) is of state heritage significance as a representative station along NSW's 'highway of lights', a system of navigational aids installed along the coastline in the mid-to-late 19th century. Important to the safe passage of shipping in NSW, the system of lightstations has a collective significance that reflects the logistical management for installing coastal infrastructure and the technical evolution of the stations. There is also an architectural coherency between lightstations across NSW, particularly those designed by James Barnet as the Colonial Architect (1865-1890). Cape Byron Lightstation was designed by Barnet's successor, Charles Assinder Harding, who continued the strong architectural styling of Barnet while designing a tower and precinct for the Cape Byron headland that was distinctive and contemporary in its use of developing technology and construction techniques. As a representative example, the design and compact nature of the building group at Cape Byron reflects the typical layout of regional lightstation complexes around Australia.
Integrity/Intactness:	The integrity of the built structures of the Cape Byron Lightstation is high due to the intactness and authenticity of the fabric. Although some modifications were made to the Head Keeper's and Assistant Keeper's Quarters in the 1950s and 1960s, much of the original fabric has been reconstructed or reinstated where possible since management of the site was transferred to the Cape Byron Trust in 1989. The integrity of the site is good, although modifications have occurred to the ancilliary structures and broader landscape on the site to accommodate visitors and new site uses in more recent times. However, under the joint management of the site, any contemporary modifications are undertaken with a thorough understanding of the holistic cultural heritage signifiance of the Cape Byron Lightstation, the headland and the broader Cape Byron Headland Reserve.
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:


	Recommended Management : Ensure that development or works do not adversely impact views, lookouts or items of heritage significance.

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Recommended Management	Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP)
Recommended Management	Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines
Recommended Management	Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
CMP-Endorse	Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement	NPWS Lighthouses Conservation Management and Cultural Tourism Plan	CMP endorsed by Heritage Council 30 May 2002 for a period of five years, expires 30 May 2007.	May 30 2002
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Heritage Act - Site Specific Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT SITE SPECIFIC EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) SHR No. 02023 I, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales, in pursuance of section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977, do, by this my order, grant an exemption from section 57(1) of that Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out of any activities described in Schedule "C" by the land manager or lessee described in Schedule 'B' on the item described in Schedule 'A'. The Hon Gabrielle Upton MP Minister for Heritage Dated at Sydney, 14 Day of February 2019 SCHEDULE 'A' The item known as the Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items), situated on the land described in Schedule 'B'. SCHEDULE 'B' All those pieces or parcels of land known as Lot 1, Lot 2 and Part Lot 3 of DP 847753 in Parish of Byron, County of Rous shown on the plan catalogued HC 3210 in the office of the Heritage Council of New South Wales. SCHEDULE 'C' Note: These site specific exemptions apply to the curtilage for the listing of Cape Byron Lightstation (including moveable items) on the State Heritage Register, under the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW). The curtilage includes all pieces or parcels of land known as Lot 1, Lot 2 and Part Lot 3 of Deposited Plan 847753 in the Parish of Byron, County of Rous as shown on the plan catalogued HC 3210 in the office of the Heritage Council of NSW. Note: Much of the language used in these site specific exemptions has been defined in 'The Burra Charter: the Australia ICOMOS Charger for Places of Cultural Significance', 2013, as follows: Heritage (cultural) significance - aesthetic, historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for past, present or future generations. Cultural significance is embodied in the place itself, its fabric, setting, use, associations, meanings, records, related places and related objects. Places may have a range of values for different individuals or groups. Fabric - all the physical material of the place including elements, fixtures, contents and objects. Curtilage (place) - a geographically defined area. It may include elements, objects, spaces and views. Place may have tangible and intangible dimensions. Maintenance - the continuous protective care of a place and its setting. Restoration - returning a place to a known earlier state by removing accretions or by reassembling existing elements without the introduction of new material Preservation - maintaining a place in its existing state and retarding deterioration Interpretation - all the ways of presenting the cultural significant of a place. Note: Prior to any works being undertaken in accordance with these site specific exemptions, the impact on heritage significance is to be assessed by a person with relevant qualifications and/or experience, as deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. Significant buildings or items - Maintenance and cleaning of significant buildings and items within the lightstation curtilage to retain condition and operation without removal or damage of existing fabric and without introduction of new materials. - Replacement of services within significant buildings and items (eg. cabling, plumbing, wiring, fire services) that use existing service routes, cavities or voids or replaces existing surface mounted services and does not involve damage to or removal of significant fabric. - Repair or replacement of damaged or deteriorated fabric that is beyond further maintenance, which matches the original fabric in appearance, material and method of affixing (or existing fabric if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service) and does not involve damage or removal of significant fabric. - Reinstatement of original features to significant buildings and items (where currently missing) if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - Installation and maintenance of temporary measures to secure significant buildings and items for security or public safety reasons if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - All maintenance works required for the functioning of the light and beacons within the Cape Byron Lighthouse if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage as assessed by a person with relevant qualifications and/or experience, as deemed appropriate by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. - All repairs, replacement and/or modification of fabric of little or no significance if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - All repairs, replacement, installation and/or modification of security and smoke alarms and fire extinguishers if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - Relocation of significant moveable heritage items (being the 15 inch Chance Bros & Co red sector light (1889) on a cast iron pedestal, original curved timber desk (1899-1901) and lantern winch (1901)) within the lightstation curtilage if deemed necessary by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for the security, maintenance and preservation of the items. The significant moveable heritage items are to be returned to existing locations wherever possible. - Relocation and/or sale/transfer of all other moveable heritage items (excluding the 15 inch Chance Bros & Co red sector light (1889) on a cast iron pedestal, original curved timber desk (1899-1901) and lantern winch (1901)) within or outside the lightstation curtilage if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. - All painting works to significant buildings and items (excluding the lighthouse) to be carried out in accordance with 'Internal and External Colour Schemes: Department of Commerce - North Coast Region, Cape Byron Lightstation, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Byron Bay, NSW' Suters Architects, 10 May 2007, Issue B. - Where painting works are not in accordance with 'Internal and External Colour Schemes: Department of Commerce - North Coast Region, Cape Byron Lightstation, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Byron Bay, NSW' Suters Architects, 10 May 2007, Issue B, works are permissible when replicating an existing colour scheme (in line with standard exemption). - Painting of the light tower must not involve the disturbance or removal of earlier paint layers other than that which has failed by chalking, flaking, blistering or peeling; must employ the same colour scheme and paint type as an earlier scheme; and must not endanger the survival of earlier paint layers. An overcoat with an appropriate surface can be applied to protect earlier layers or to provide a stable basis for repainting. - All works to fireplaces in significant buildings in accordance with 'Chimney Inspection Report: Byron Bay Lighthouse Keepers Cottages' Graeme Barr Architects, May 2006. - All works in accordance with 'Heritage Asset Maintenance Plan: Department of Commerce, Byron Lighthouse, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Byron Bay, NSW' Suters Architects, 22 May 2007, Issue B. Non-significant buildings or items - All internal works to non-significant buildings (being the Lighthouse Cafe and toilet block). - All external works to non-significant buildings if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - All works to non-significant items (being the Marine Rescue NSW equipment) if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. Fences, paths, roadways, landscaping - All repairs, replacement and/or modification of paths and roadways if existing alignment is maintained. - All repairs, replacement and/or modification of fences if existing alignment and style is maintained. - Any weeding, watering, mowing pest control and fertilising necessary for continued health of plants without damage or major modification to layout, plant species or other significant landscape features. - Pruning (to control size, improve shape, flowering/fruiting and removal of diseased, dead or dangerous material), not exceeding 20 per cent of canopy of tree within a period of two years. - Removal of dead or dying trees if replaced by trees of same species (if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service) and in same location. - Removal or maintenance of inappropriate plantings in south-eastern corner of Assistant Keeper's Quarters. - Removal of hard landscaping (bitumen, concrete, paving) and installation of soft landscaping (grass, plantings) if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - Excavation or disturbance of land for the purpose of exposing underground utility service infrastructure for inspection, repair, replacement or maintenance which occurs within an existing service trench and will not affect any archaeological relics. If any unexpected historical archaeological deposits and/or relics or Aboriginal objects are discovered, works must cease in the affected area(s) and the Office of Environment and Heritage must be notified immediately in accordance with the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) and the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. - Excavation or disturbance of land which will not affect any archaeological relics for the purpose of maintaining or repairing building foundations. If any unexpected historical archaeological deposits and/or relics or Aboriginal objects are discovered, works must cease in the affected area(s) and the Office of Environment and Heritage must be notified immediately in accordance with the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) and the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Operation of lightstation, signage and events - All existing or new leases for the operation of the Lighthouse Cafe, the Assistant Keeper's Quarters garage, and the Lightstation tower. - Change of use of any significant or non-significant buildings if deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - All repairs, replacement, installation and/or modification of non-illuminated emergency, safety, or urgent law enforcement signage if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - All repairs, replacement, installation and/or modification of interpretation signage if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - Installation of temporary structures (e.g. marquees, portable toilets, stalls, etc) for a period not exceeding five (5) days for events held by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (or approved by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service) as often as deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage. - Holding of events by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (or approved by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service) within the Cape Byron Lighthouse curtilage as often as deemed appropriate by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service if there is no impact on the heritage significance of the lightstation curtilage.	Feb 22 2019
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register	02023	22 Feb 19	17	380-383
State Environmental Planning Policy		23 Dec 94
National Trust of Australia register
Register of the National Estate		21 Oct 80

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Written	Australian Government, Department of the Environment and Energy	2004	Commonwealth Heritage List: Cape Byron Lighthouse, Lighthouse Rd, Byron Bay, NSW, Australia	View detail
Written	Clive Lucas, Stapleton and Partners Pty Ltd	1993	Cape Byron Lightstation: Conservation Management Plan
Written	Freeman Ellsmore	2008	Conservation Management Plan: The Cape Byron Lightstation Precinct	View detail
Written	Gordon Reid	1988	From dusk till dawn: a history of Australian lighthouses
Written	Graham Brooks & Assoc PL, DM Taylor Landscape Architects PL, Mitchell Nethery Heritage Presentation, Mary Dallas Consulting Archaeologists, Imaginvest Tourism Consultants	2001	NPWS Lighthouses: conservation management and cultural tourism plan
Written	J.P. Collins	1995	Cape Byron Headland Reserve Aboriginal Heritage Study
Written	Kijas Histories	2009	Lighthouse Keeping - A Parnership: A Report on the NPWS Lighthouses of NSW Oral History Project
Written	National Parks & Wildlife Service	2018	State Heritage Register Nomination Form: Cape Byron Lighthouse
Written	The Cape Byron Trust and the Arakwal Aboriginal Corporation	1999	Special Places: Exploring Aboriginal Heritage, Cape Byron, Australia
Written	Wildsite Ecological Services	2002	Cape Byron State Conservation Area Plan of Management	View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

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Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5053293
File number:	EF18/5871

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