Lighthouse Keepers of the Great South West
Visit four historic lighthouses along Victoria’s southwest coast and uncover little known stories of lighthouse keepers with tales of bravery, isolation, danger, and loss. Pay tribute to these unsung heroes with a commemorative cannon firing at each site.
Four historic lighthouses, four unique locations along Victoria’s South West coast, and 150 years of lighthouse keepers’ stories waiting to be uncovered. Throughout the weekend, explore the heritage-listed lighthouses of Cape Nelson, Portland, Port Fairy, and Warrnambool, where local historians will reveal little-known tales of those who safeguarded mariners along this perilous coastline. Discover the challenges of isolation, the struggles of raising families in remote outposts, the demands and dangers of the job, and the courageous rescues these lighthouse keepers assisted with. At each site, experience the dramatic firing of a cannon by the Warrnambool Garrison in tribute to the bravery and dedication of lighthouse keepers past.
What’s On
- 10 May 2025 10am – 11am | Cape Nelson Lightstation | Cape Nelson Road, Portland West, Victoria, 3305 | Presentation from Gordon Stokes and cannon firing
- 10 May 2025, 12pm – 1pm | Whalers Bluff Lighthouse | Lighthouse Ave, Portland, Victoria, 3305 | Presentation from Mike Risk.
- 10 May 2025, 2pm – 2:30pm | Portland Battery | 20 Victoria Parade, Portland, Victoria, 3305 | Cannon Firing
- 11 May 2025, 10am – 11:30pm | Port Fairy Lighthouse | Griffiths Island, Port Fairy, Victoria, 3284 | Presentation from Marten Syme and cannon firing (includes 15 minutes walk time to and from lighthouse from carpark)
- 11 May 2025, 2pm – 3pm | Warrnambool Lighthouse Precinct | Flagstaff Hill, 89 Merri Street, Warrnambool, Victoria, 3280 | Presentation from John Harrison and Cannon Firing.
Image: Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Precinct