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North Head Lighthouse. Photo supplied
Bowen residents and visitors can look forward to walking to the North Head Lighthouse when the tide is low enough in coming weeks.
Each year, during winter, on just a few dates, the tides are usually low enough to make this possible.
The lighthouse is situated just one kilometre from the Bowen mainland, at the entrance to Port Denison.
It is one of Queensland’s oldest lighthouses and people have been taking advantage of the low tides in winter for many years.
Port Denison was the first port established in North Queensland, with Bowen being officially proclaimed a town on April 11th 1861.
Built in 1866, this six-sided wooden tower lighthouse protected ships entering the busy port between Middle, Stone and Gloucester Islands.
The North Head Lighthouse was extinguished in 1985 and the original lens shifted to the Bowen Historical Museum.
In 2017, the North Head Lighthouse was restored by community groups, ensuring this important and eye-catching landmark is maintained for future generations.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said the low tides in winter always attracted a large crowd of people keen to make the trek across from the mainland to the Lighthouse.
Lighthouse walkers follow an exposed sand spit in a curving path towards the North Head Island.
“Your feet will get wet, so we recommend walkers wear reef boots or old sneakers,” Leanne said.
“We also recommend you leave the mainland one hour before the lowest tide to ensure you have time to safely return to the mainland before the tide rises again.
“Walkers are expected to see red starfish and sea cucumbers. If you are really lucky, you may even spot a sea turtle.”
“We ask that everyone taking part in the walk respects the marine environment and doesn’t touch the marine life.”
The walk starts at Dalrymple Point and walkers are reminded that they take part at their own risk, and attention should be given to your fitness, suitability and the tide times.
“We also suggest taking water and wearing sunscreen and a light jacket in case there is a breeze,” Leanne said.
“We don’t recommend the walk if the tide is above 0.2m – and don’t forget to take your camera.”
Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism.
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