Lighthouse opens doors for volunteers

The Geographe Bay Tourism Association is holding an open day on August 16 at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to commemorate International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend.

Proceeds from discounted tour admissions will go directly to the Naturaliste Volunteer Sea Rescue Service.

The open day is a chance to take a guided tour of Australia’s last manned lighthouse for $5 per person and enjoy the grounds with a base walk pass for a gold coin donation.

NVSRS commander Geoff Brierley said sometimes the community’s support for the group was overwhelming.

“The group is looking forward to holding a sausage sizzle at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for the open day and we will be bringing one of our rescue boats out with us, ” he said.

“I can’t say enough how much we appreciate the continued support of the association and the lighthouse.”

GBTA asset development manager Mark Delane said an amateur shortwave radio station would operate from the lighthouse grounds over the weekend.

“This is particularly significant as the weekend was originally started by some amateur shortwave enthusiasts in Scotland about 20 years ago and is now celebrated by over 80 countries, which join in to promote the preservation of lighthouses around the world, ” he said.

Mr Delane said it was great to see community spirit building each year.

“We are very lucky to have such a great facility still in operation, ” he said.

The open day will run from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, August 16, with guided tours starting at 9am and departing every half hour.

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