Point Hicks Lighthouse, VICTORIA
Airing Date: Dec 6th, 2004
Point Hicks Lighthouse, mainland Australia's tallest, is perched on a remote granite headland about seven hours from Melbourne, at the very bottom east of Victoria and surrounded by Croajingolong National Park.
Point Hicks was first sighted by Captain Cook from his ship the Endeavour, and named after his First Lieutenant Zachary Hicks. The 1890s lighthouse is believed to be haunted by the ghost of former lighthouse keeper's assistant, Robert Christofferson, who mysteriously disappeared, apparently while setting his crayfish pot on the rocks at the base of the lighthouse.
There are two cottages for visitors to stay in, each with two bedrooms. One of the bedrooms used to be Robert's, and is said to be haunted.
Guests will need to bring all their own food, towels and linen. In the evening, you can to dine on the veranda of the cottage with its amazing sunset, and you may just spot a seal - or a ghost.
If you're up to it, you can climb the lighthouse. Entry costs $7, or if you're staying in the cottages, it's free. There are 162 steps to the top and the view is amazing - but when you get there be prepared for the wind, which can get as high as 80 knots.
Just near the lighthouse is a recently declared marine park. The water is often very clear, making it perfect for snorkelling amongst the seaweed and colourful sponges, sea-squirts, sea-moss and sea-fans of all shapes.
For a bit more history, check out the rusting ship the Saros. Just 10 minutes walk from the lighthouse, the Saros ran aground on Christmas Day, 1937. Happily all the crew survived.
Camping is available down the road at the Thurra River camping ground. None of the sites are powered but there are shared BBQ facilities.
The facts:
A three bedroom cottage at Point Hicks Lighthouse starts from $230 and sleeps six people.
Point Hicks Lighthouse
03 5158 4268
$13.50 will get you a site for up to six people at the Thurra River campground. Share BBQ facilities available.
Suggested reading material: Lonely Planet
Prices correct at 06/12/04
