$1.9 million South Head Signal Station upgrade

One of Sydney’s most historic maritime sites has been preserved for future generations with completion of a $1.9 million NSW Government upgrade of the South Head Signal Station at Vaucluse.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said restoration work on the iconic site has been funded by Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment.

“This vital upgrade has helped preserve the State Heritage Listed signal station with repairs and upgrades to roofs, windows, doors, handrails, walkways and kitchen including maintenance on two nearby cottages,” Mr Kamper said.

“A new 23.5 metre flagstaff was the final key heritage addition given the signal station’s historic role of guiding ships into Sydney Harbour and alerting Circular Quay of incoming vessels.

“This investment has improved an iconic landmark on Crown land that is one of the highlights of the coastal walk at Vaucluse.”

The South Head Signal Station was constructed in the 1840s to a design by Colonial Architect Mortimer Lewis as a communications point for shipping entering and leaving Port Jackson.

Woollahra History and Heritage Society President Peter Poland, OAM, said the site dates from January 1790 when Governor Phillip agreed to Captain Hunter’s suggestion that a lookout post be established at Outer South Head.

A flagstaff was erected to advise ships where the new settlement had moved from Botany Bay and alert the Governor at Sydney Cove that a ship had been sighted.

“The restoration work on the signal station will ensure this important site continues to be enjoyed and appreciated by future generations for many years,” Mr Poland said.