First automated light, 1975

Donated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority

South Solitary Island lighthouse was automated in August, 1975. The lighthouse, which had been manually operated since 1880, was vacated a few months later on 29th December when the lightkeepers and their families left the island. This is an example of the new electric apparatus - a lightweight PVC lantern with a self-contained beacon inside the lantern and a standby on top, one 12v lamp as the light source, powered by a battery. Since 1983, the light has been solar-powered.

First automated lighthouse light. An electric apparatus consisting of a lightweight PVC lantern with a self-contained beacon inside the lantern and a standby on top, one 12v lamp as the light source, powered by a battery.