Essential repairs have begun on Tasmania’s highest lighthouse and heritage buildings on remote Deal Island, with contractors replacing roofs damaged by decades of harsh Bass Strait weather.
The Superintendent’s residence, built in 1846, and lighthouse outbuildings are receiving new roofs and window repairs through a $125,000 state government project.
Acting Parks Minister Madeleine Ogilvie said the residence, now a museum, contains historically significant wall coverings including 19th-century wallpapers, newspapers and magazines.
“These works will secure the future of this building,” she said.
“The roof was last replaced around 26 years ago, but the harsh climate on Deal Island means it’s approaching end of life.”
Tasmanian heritage specialists Paradigm Construction are carrying out repairs, painting and reroofing.
The project also covers the Superintendent’s residence, storerooms and privy roofs.
Original timber framing and shingles beneath current roofs will be preserved where possible as evidence of the buildings’ development.
Ogilvie said the island’s remote location 60 kilometres north of Flinders Island created significant logistical challenges.
“Careful planning has occurred to ensure all equipment and materials are available as a trip to the local hardware store is not an option,” she said.
The heritage-listed lighthouse now tells the story of lighthouse keepers and their families who lived on the isolated island.
Deal Island Lightstation stopped operating in 1992, but still helps develop navigation aides along Tasmania’s coast.
At 305 metres above sea level, it is Australia’s highest lighthouse.
The project is being delivered through the Tasmanian government’s Boost Maintenance funding program.
