Historic Norah Head lighthouse gets new lease on life
Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve is ready to welcome visitors from all parts of the country after more than $400,000 in upgrades were completed.
One of the Central Coast’s most iconic Crown land sites, the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve’s most recent improvements were supported with funding from Crown Lands and its Crown Reserves Improvement fund.
Upgrades have included repairs, maintenance and repainting of keepers’ quarters and installation of a new security gate.
The lighthouse, built for 24,000 English pounds in 1903, has had a distinguished life as a working lighthouse protecting coastal shipping, as well as a popular tourist drawcard.
The lighthouse and its reserve attract more than 100,000 visitors each year for coastal sightseeing and whale watching, and it is a hot spot for weddings being previously named the ‘Best DIY’ wedding venue at the Brides Choice Awards.
Visitors can sample life as a lighthouse keeper by staying in furnished keepers’ cottages which offer sweeping sea views a short walking distance from beaches and rock pools, located on almost 20 hectares of coastal nature reserve halfway between Sydney and Newcastle.
Reflections Holiday Parks will formally begin its role as Crown land manager of Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve in September, working with the local volunteers to protect and maintain the headland for continued community access and enjoyment.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said Norah Head Lighthouse is one of thousands of Crown land reserves across NSW that are supported by volunteers.
“It’s fantastic to see the iconic Norah Head Lighthouse reserve get ongoing upgrades to continue as a historical local landmark,” Mr Kamper said.
“Crown land reserves play an instrumental role in supporting communities with everything from working lighthouses to parks, ovals, showgrounds and community halls.”
Member for Wyong and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:
“Powered by volunteers, Norah Head Lighthouse is of great historical significance to the Central Coast with 120 years of local history. It is loved by locals and visitors alike and we want to keep it in great shape so it can be enjoyed now and in the future.”