Fort Denison Light facts for kids
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| Fort Denison Light, 2006 | |
 Fort Denison Light
Location in Sydney
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| Location | Fort Denison New South Wales Australia |
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| Coordinates | 33°51′16.64″S 151°13′33.69″E / 33.8546222°S 151.2260250°E |
| Year first constructed | 1913 |
| Foundation | Martello Tower |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower with balcony and lantern |
| Markings / pattern | white tower and black lantern |
| Height | 20 feet (6.1 m) |
| Focal height | 61 feet (19 m) |
| Range | 5 nautical miles (9.3 km; 5.8 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (4) W 15s. |
| Fog signal | bell, continuous |
| Admiralty number | K2666 |
| NGA number | 111-6224 |
| ARLHS number | AUS-235 |
The Fort Denison Light, also called the Pinchgut Light, is an active lighthouse. It stands on top of a special round tower called a Martello tower at Fort Denison. This fort is on a small island in Sydney Harbour in New South Wales, Australia.
The island is located not far from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is also close to Potts Point and the Royal Botanic Gardens. The fort itself is sometimes called "Pinchgut," which is how the lighthouse got its other name.
Contents
What is the History of Fort Denison Light?
The top part of the lighthouse, including its light, was made in Birmingham, England. It was placed on the Martello tower in 1913. Before the light was added, an 8-inch gun was in its place.
The first light used a gas lamp that ran on acetylene. By 1926, the light was changed to run on electricity. The station also has a device to measure tides, which has been there since the mid-1800s. It also has markers for boat channels and a fog bell to warn ships in bad weather.
How Was the Lighthouse Renovated?
On October 30, 2003, the entire top section of the lighthouse was carefully taken off for repairs. Experts from the National Parks and Wildlife Service decided that using a helicopter was the safest way to move it. The lantern was lifted by helicopter and flown to the shore.
The renovation work happened at a workshop in a place called St Peters. Many groups worked together on this project. These included the National Parks service, the Sydney Ports corporation, and Australian Defence Industries.
During the renovation, the lighthouse structure was taken apart. Old paint was removed, and new steel pieces were welded onto areas that had rusted. A new base ring was made and attached with hot rivets. Finally, the whole surface was painted and treated to stop it from rusting again.
On May 20, 2004, the newly repaired lantern was brought back by helicopter. It was then put back in its place on top of the tower.
Who Manages the Fort Denison Light?
The Sydney Ports corporation is in charge of the lighthouse's light. The island itself, where the lighthouse stands, is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. This service is part of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water in New South Wales. They have managed the site since 1992, as it is part of the Sydney Harbour National Park.
Can You Visit Fort Denison Light?
Yes, you can visit the island where the lighthouse is located. You need to get there by boat. The island offers guided tours for a fee, but you need to book your visit in advance. The tower, with its lighthouse, is now open for the public to explore.
