The Cape Northumberland Lighthouse is located at Port Macdonnell on the southeast coat of South Australia.

The structure consists of an approximately 9m tall stone tower surmounted by a 8m tall cast iron lantern room.

The lighthouse was built in 1882 and is listed on the State and Commonwealth Heritage Register.

McElligotts was engaged by AMSA as primary contractor to undertake a complete refurbishment inclusive of:

• Repaint of all internal and external surfaces of the lighthouse
• Refurbishment of the balcony
• Refurbishment of the stone structure
• Refurbishment of the internal accessways
• Refurbishment of the lantern room
• Reglazing of the lantern room
• Refurbishment of the ancillary building
• Establishment of a temporary AtoN
• Electrical Works
• Ancillary Works

AMSA Executive Director Response Mark Morrow highlighted the significance of the Cape Northumberland Lighthouse to the local community.

“At South Australia’s southern-most point, Cape Northumberland Lighthouse forms an iconic part of the Port MacDonnell coastline,” he said.

Addressing the unusual cause for refurbishment, Mr. Morrow expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the newly applied paint coatings to deter future bird-related damage ensuring the longevity of the historical landmark.

“This stunning piece of South Australian history is now bird-proof and ready to be enjoyed by future generations.”

“AMSA would like to thank McElligotts VIC Pty Ltd for their hard work restoring Cape Northumberland Lighthouse, in time for Christmas.”

Mr Morrow also emphasised AMSA’s commitment to maintaining the safety of Australia’s aids to navigation network through in-house technical expertise and specialist contractors.

“Australia’s aids to navigation network has stood for over a century, evolving and expanding with the economic development of Australia and in response to advances in technological innovation, and growth in maritime trade and activity,” he said.

“AMSA has been the custodian of this network for the last 33 years, safeguarding the lives of seafarers and our precious seas and coastlines.

“Together with our state and territory partners, we have ensured the maintenance, modernisation, and growth of this network through our work – today, it stands at more than 22,000 aids to navigation, of which about 450 are directly managed by AMSA.”

Works on Cape Northumberland Lighthouse began in February 2023 and were completed this month.