Norah Head Lighthouse volunteers will gather with neighbours, friends and family to celebrate the 120th birthday of the Norah Head Lighthouse this weekend.
Volunteers and Reflections are firing up the BBQ and holding lighthouse tours for the local Norah Head community at the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve (Darkinjung Country) on Saturday 18th November from 9am to 1pm.
The anniversary is a celebration, not only of the lighthouse which has saved many mariners’ lives, but also of the community volunteers, said Reflections’ Regional Manager, Alisa Wells.
“Volunteers work tirelessly to tend to the lighthouse and reserve and help preserve it for generations to come, and it’s great that they are sharing their knowledge and passion with the local community,” said Ms Wells.
Lighthouse tours will be provided from 9am to 1pm at a special discounted price: $5 per adult and free for children.
“What it really means is that we get a chance to show off just how beautiful and iconic this old lady is and what a wonderful asset it has been to the coastal navigation of NSW. The volunteers are passionate about what they do and they really are knowledgeable people who can not only give you the facts, but tell you the story of what life was like for the lighthouse keepers and on through the ages,” said Ian Thomas, Coordinator of the Lighthouse Volunteers.
The Lighthouse, a beacon of safety and welcome for visitors from near and far, is also a much-loved community asset, said the Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong, the Hon. David Harris MP.
"Construction of the Norah Head Lighthouse began on 26 February, 1901, with light shining for the first time on the evening of November 15, 1903. Since then, it has helped many mariners safely navigate the waters of the Central Coast, while capturing the imagination of visitors from near and far," Mr Harris said.
"I congratulate the volunteers on their important work and look forward to a great celebration with the local community."
Community members who are interested in volunteering at the Reserve will also have an opportunity to meet the volunteers and find out what’s involved. Local volunteers provide lighthouse tours, care for the reserve and vegetation, and run the shop, raising funds for the care of the lighthouse and reserve.
Reflections, a Category One Crown Land Manager, commenced as site manager in September 2023, partnering with community volunteers to ensure the ongoing care and preservation of this important community asset. Reflections cares for Crown Land reserves across New South Wales, reinvesting profit into public land for the community’s enjoyment.
What: Norah Head Lighthouse 120th anniversary celebration
When: Saturday 18th November 2023
An official opening celebration (speeches and cake cutting) will take place from 10.30am to 11am, with interview opportunities to follow.
Lighthouse tours will be provided for community members from 9am to 1pm.
Where: Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve (40 Bush Street, Norah Head)
For more information visit www.norahheadlighthouse.com.au.
Interview opportunities:
Alisa Wells, Regional Manager, Reflections, M 0428 794 870
Ian Thomas, Norah Head Lighthouse tours and lighthouse volunteers, M 0403 035 144
Images of Norah Head Lighthouse: Please click here
Key Facts:
Please find Dropbox images in link below.
Contact details:
Lauren Eyles 0460 030 846
