Goose Island Lighthouse was placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004. The lighthouse has contributed to the establishment of marine Aids to Navigation (AtoNs) within Bass Strait. It is known for its significance as one of five pre-1850 lighthouses in Tasmania and its aesthetic characteristics as a remote coastal landmark.
Goose Island Lighthouse is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register for its contribution to the development of early 19th century AtoNs. It is also recognised for its rarity as the third oldest Australian lighthouse still in existence, its potential to yield knowledge, demonstration of class characteristics and aesthetic value.
Built in 1841-1846, the lighthouse is located on Goose Island, a landmass within the Furneaux Group Islands situated within Bass Strait. The lighthouse was originally accompanied by keepers’ cottages, and a jetty and tramway before their demolition following the de-manning of the site in 1931. The only structures left on Goose Island are the tower, store shed and helipad, which are incorporated in the AMSA lease. The larger part of the island is managed by Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service (TPWS).
Originally fitted with a fixed W Wilkins Co single-lamp and catadioptric lens, the lighthouse tower now operates via a Vega VRB-25 self-contained rotating beacon on an automated mechanism as part of our network of AtoNs. The equipment is serviced by AMSA’s maintenance contractor who visits at least once each year. Our officers visit on an ad hoc basis for auditing, project and community liaison purposes.
This heritage management plan concerns the lighthouse tower and store shed, however it also considers the management of the surrounding precinct and land. This plan is intended to guide our decisions and actions. We have 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 and State heritage values of Goose Island Lighthouse are recognised, maintained and preserved for future generations.