Grassy Hill Light, Maritime navigation aid on Grassy Hill in Cooktown, Australia
Grassy Hill Light is a roughly 6-meter-tall conical structure built from corrugated iron sheeting over timber framing, set on a concrete base. It stands near the Endeavour River entrance and continues to operate as an active navigation aid for modern vessels.
The facility began operation in 1886 as shipping traffic increased at Cooktown's port. The original lighting apparatus came from Chance Brothers and relied on kerosene lamps.
The building stands as a working heritage structure that sailors and fishermen recognize from far away on the water. Local people take pride in keeping it functional, treating it as part of their maritime connection to the river.
The light flashes twice every 6 seconds and operates entirely on solar power. The beam covers a specific sector between 192 and 315 degrees to guide vessels safely.
Community members fought against its planned closure in 1987 and successfully purchased it from the government. They paid a symbolic price of around 100 dollars to keep this landmark operating.
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