Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse

Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse is a steel structure built on a concrete base at the southern end of the harbor's protective barrier. The breakwater extends into the water, creating a sheltered area for vessels entering and leaving the port.

Engineer Edward Orpen Moriarty designed this structure in 1871 as a navigation aid for the harbor. The original oil-burning system was replaced by gas-powered equipment in the following decade.

The lighthouse marks the harbor's role in the region's connection to the sea and maritime trade. Today, visitors and locals use the breakwater as a place to walk, fish, and watch the water.

The lighthouse is reached by walking paths along the breakwater, which are generally flat and easy to navigate. Parking and information panels are located near the harbor entrance, and dry weather makes the visit more comfortable.

This lighthouse is considered one of Australia's first steel beacons, showcasing innovative construction techniques from the 1800s. Its prefabricated steel parts could be assembled on site, introducing a new method for maritime construction of that era.

Location: New South Wales

Inception: 1872

Architects: Edward Orpen Moriarty

GPS coordinates: -34.41968,150.90680

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02