The Cape Byron lighthouse at northern NSW’s Byron Bay has picked up a prestigious global heritage gong.

The beacon ā at Australiaās most eastern point ā was on Thursday named the 2021 Heritage Lighthouse of the Year by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities.
It earned the award due to its ārarity, aesthetic characteristics, cultural significance, architecture and strong connection to the local communityā.
The lighthouse ā in place for more than 120 years ā is also Australiaās most powerful navigation aid, glowing at an intensity of 2.2 million candelas.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority chief executive Mick Kinley said the lighthouse was vital for navigation on the countryās east coast.
ā(We are) extremely proud that Cape Byronās long contribution to maritime safety has been recognised ⦠through this prestigious international award,ā Kinley said in a statement.
āThe title of Lighthouse of the Year allows the towerās historical, architectural, technical and social significance to be truly celebrated.ā
The Lizard Lighthouse in England and the Palmido Lighthouse in South Korea were the other two finalists for the award.
The Cape Byron Lighthouse was placed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004. There is also a museum inside the bright white pinnacle construction.
Want to see more stories from InDaily Qld in your Google search results?