Port Fairy Lighthouse On Griffiths Island — Attraction in Port Fairy

Port Fairy Coastal Reserve & Lighthouse.

As our road trip along the iconic Great Ocean Road unfolded, we were met with a myriad of breathtaking landscapes and charming coastal towns. However, it was our stop at the Port Fairy Coastal Reserve that truly captured our hearts and provided a serene escape from the bustle of our journey.

Upon arriving at the reserve, we were immediately greeted by the untamed beauty of the rugged coastline. The reserve, a haven for both wildlife and weary travellers, stretches along the southern coast of Victoria, showcasing a diverse ecosystem that includes everything from sandy beaches to rocky headlands.

The walking trails that meander through the reserve were a delightful invitation to explore. We took the opportunity to embark on a leisurely hike, which allowed us to immerse ourselves in the tranquillity of the surroundings. The well-maintained paths offered stunning vistas of the Southern Ocean, and we often found ourselves pausing to simply breathe in the fresh sea air and listen to the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

Wildlife enthusiasts in our group were thrilled with the sightings of various bird species, including the majestic white-bellied sea eagles soaring above. The reserve is also known for its seasonal whale watching opportunities, and although we weren't fortunate enough to spot any gentle giants during our visit, the possibility of such an encounter added an element of excitement to our walk.

The Griffiths Island Lighthouse, located within the reserve, was a highlight for us. The short walk to the lighthouse took us across a causeway, offering panoramic views and the chance to spot wallabies and native birds. The lighthouse itself, with its historic charm, provided a picturesque backdrop for countless photos and memories.

The town of Port Fairy itself is a gem, offering quaint cafes, local art galleries, and a warm community feel. After a day of exploring the reserve, we indulged in some well-deserved relaxation at one of the town's cosy eateries, reflecting on the day's adventures and the stunning natural beauty we had experienced.

This pristine reserve offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and...

Port Fairy Lighthouse Lat. 38 23'33" South Lon. 142 15'28" East The Port Fairy Lighthouse was built in 1859 on what was then Rabbit Island. This later became part of Griffith Island. The light is 41 feet above high watermark and its visibility to seaward is 12 miles. The original working drawings provided for six stone steps from the natural basalt base rock to the entrance door level. Because of the south-westerly gales which send huge seas crashing onto the area, the causeway and wall were built to provide safer access. Lighthouse technical specifications Sailing directions, Victoria-Bass Strait, the official data book of coastal navigation facilities, lists the light as a "fourth order dioptric double flashing white light every 10 seconds". This means that a central cylindric lens transmits the rays horizontally from the lamp by means of refractions. The light which would normally be wasted above and below the burner is also transmitted horizontally by reflection in a series of rings or prisms. The idea was first used by a French Scientist, M. Fresnel, in 1788. The extra light thus obtained is called catadioptric light. Oil lamps, gas jets, wind generation and power The original light source was an oil lamp and the whole optical system rotated in order to flash the identification code. This is, flash for one second, eclipsed for two seconds, flash for one second then eclipsed for six seconds. This 10 second cycle is repeated continuously. Progress in the science made it possible for the light to become fully automatic. Oil gave way to a gas jet which was pulsed to flash the identification code. Solar power took over in 1987 with a wind generator backup being added in June 1996. The coded flash system is activated automatically. The cast brass plate on the lamp installation bears the following words: "Fourth Order Catadioptric fixed and flashing light with short eclipses. Manufactured by Chance Brothers & Co. Glass Works, near...

The views that you can get form this vantage point are some of the best in Point Fairy. Though I highly recommend that you bring a jumper even of it doesn't look all that cold, the winds that come from offshore can really make the trip a no go for ill equipped. If you do make it to lighthouse though there are heeps of rocks and rock pools all teaming with ocean life for your kinds to play with (if they are into that kind of thing). Also a great photo opportunity for you photographers out there. It's also has a really nice walk around the island, it generally not all that crowded so you can walk in peace or with a loved one without being taken out of the moment without someone screaming and shouting. Though keep in mind to keep on the track for there are wild birds that nest in in between the green growth and the sand of the island. The beach is not the best thing in the world due to the fact that it's not all that big and has rocks.

So if you are coming to Port Fairy for a holiday or just a couple of days this is one walk must be on your list of places to go to and see. (as long as you like walking and don't...