Mersey Bluff Lighthouse is a historic site recognised by both Commonwealth and State governments for its heritage significance. The lighthouse was placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004 due to its contribution to the development of Devonport and the Mersey District, and its status as a significant local landmark.
Mersey Bluff Lighthouse is listed on the Tasmanian State Heritage Register for its association with the early settlement and development of the surrounding region, and the expansion of the shipping trade along the Tasmanian coast. The site is also recognised for its representation of principal late 19th century lighthouse characteristics, and its standing as an important local landmark within the township of Devonport. This site is also of high cultural significance to the Tommeginne People.
Built in 1889, the lighthouse is situated on Mersey Bluff, a promontory located along the northern coast of Tasmania within Mersey District. Originally accompanied by superintendents’ quarters, a flag pole, tide house and signal shed, the lighthouse tower is now the only structure found at the site and is leased by AMSA.
Once fitted with a 4th Order Chance Brothers & Co. lens, the lighthouse now operates on an automated lampchanger mechanism as part of our network of marine aids to navigation (AtoNs). The equipment is serviced by AMSA’s maintenance contractor who visits at least once each year. AMSA officers visit on an ad hoc basis for auditing, project and community liaison purposes.
This heritage management plan concerns the lighthouse, but also considers the management of the surrounding land. The plan is intended to guide decisions and actions of AMSA who continues to operate the lighthouse. AMSA has prepared this plan to integrate the heritage values of the lighthouse in accordance with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Cth (EPBC Act), and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000 Cth (EPBC Regulations).
Well-built and generally well-maintained, the lighthouse is in relatively good, stable condition. The policies and management guidelines set out in this heritage management plan strive to ensure the Commonwealth heritage values of Mersey Bluff Lighthouse are recognised, maintained and preserved for future generations.