Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L01461:reg:2018:p1
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L01461
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 2018 (pt 1/14)
Character Range: 35766–38870

2018  Structure repaint due to vandalism.

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Figure 13. Proposed alteration in colour of tower, CLS 1929. NAA: P1130, 29/0062 (© Commonwealth of Australia, National Archives of Australia)
  3.8 Summary of current and former uses
From its construction in 1889, Mersey Bluff Lightouse has been used as a marine AtoN for mariners at sea. Its AtoN capability remains its primary use.

  3.9 Summary of past and present community associations
The lighthouse and its immediate surrounds maintains strong associations with a variety of groups.

Aboriginal associations
The Traditional knowledge-holders for the region are dedicated to exhibiting the history and culture of the bluff and surrounding area. The Six Rivers Aboriginal Corporation oversees matters concerning the bluff and Tiagarra.

In 1976, the Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Museum was established on the bluff which houses a large collection of artefacts and information on Aboriginal cultural heritage. Although first run by the Devonport City Council, the Tiagarra building now owned by the Aboriginal community. Further information can be found on the Centre's website: https://tiagarra.weebly.com/

Local, national and international associations
The site's contribution to the development of the district has cemented Mersey Bluff Lighthouse as a popular and significant local landmark. The easy access roads and walking tracks established in its vicinity indicates the site's active inclusion in the local community. The tower and its iconic red stripes have also been identified as imperative to the Devonport City Council's branding.

As a manned site from its construction in 1889 until 1920, Mersey Bluff Lighthouse maintains familial ties from past lightkeepers – ties which transcend local, national and international borders.

  3.10         Unresolved questions or historical conflicts
Any historical conflicts and unresolved questions brought to light concerning the lighthouse's history will be included in this section within future plans.

  3.11         Recommendations for further research
Further research on the Superintendents (lightkeepers) stationed at the lighthouse would be beneficial in understanding the social history of the lighthouse. Additionally, further research into changes made to the tower and lightstation as a whole would provide greater insight into the transformation of the lightstation from its construction in 1889 to the present day.

  4.   Fabric

  4.1 Register
The cultural significance of the lighthouse resides in its fabric, and also in its intangible aspects – such as the meanings people ascribe to it, and the connections to other places and things. The survival of its cultural value depends on a well-informed understanding of what is significant, and on clear thinking about the consequences of change. The Burra Charter[16] sets out good practice for conserving cultural significance.
Criterion listed under 'Heritage Significance' refer to the criterion satisfied within the specific Commonwealth heritage listing (see section 5.1).
(Images included in Sections 4.1 and 4.2