These tanks and pumping mechanism vapourised kerosene under pressure to burn in the lantern. Keepers had to watch all night in case a mantle broke and the tanks had to be pumped by hand every hour.

South Solitary was both the first and last lighthouse in New South Wales to operate on kerosene, so the continuous presence of lightkeepers was needed until 1975. Its automation is remembered emotionally as the end of an era, even beyond the local area.

Kerosene vapour apparatus consisting of two metal tanks joined and mounted on a stand which incorporates twin pumps and a gauge. Tanks and stand painted gray, with green pump handles.

Used to vapourise kerosene for the South Solitary Island lighthouse optic.