Tacking Point Lighthouse

Tacking Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark in Australia, recognized as the thirteenth oldest lighthouse in the country.

Situated on a rugged headland about 8 kilometers south of Port Macquarie, it has been a vital navigational aid for ships. Built in 1879 by Shepherd and Joseph William Mortley, it was designed by James Barnet, a renowned New South Wales Colonial Architect. Today, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority operates the lighthouse, and it is classified by the National Trust of Australia (NSW).

The Tacking Point area was known for shipwrecks in the nineteenth century, prompting the construction of the lighthouse. It is one of five small navigational lighthouses built to James Barnet's design, with only Tacking Point and Crowdy Head lighthouses still having a storeroom attached. The lighthouse, made of cement-rendered bricks, stands at eight meters high due to its elevated site. The light was de-manned in 1920 and converted to automatic acetylene operation in 1919. It further achieved a milestone with the conversion to mains electricity in 1974. The foundations of the keeper's cottage can still be seen, adding to the historical charm of the location.

The management of Tacking Point Lighthouse is a shared responsibility among three government authorities. The lighthouse is owned by the New South Wales Department of Lands, operated by Transport for NSW, and managed by the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. One of the challenges faced by the authorities is the impact of vandalism on the lighthouse's heritage value.

In addition to its historical significance, Tacking Point Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction. It marks the end of the