Frederick Reefs Lighthouse

The Frederick Reefs Lighthouse is located in the Coral Sea Islands, approximately 220 nautical miles northeast of Gladstone, Queensland, Australia. The reef was named in 1812 by Captain Joseph Savigny of the ship Frederick. The lighthouse is situated at the northern end of the reef, which is the only permanently dry land in the area.

The reef complex is a small atoll with a semi-enclosed lagoon known as Anchorage Sound, measuring about 10 by 4 kilometers. The lagoon is protected on most sides but open on the north side. The reef is surrounded by deep water, with depths of over 2500 meters on the western side. The lighthouse is accessible by boat only and is located on a small section of land that is permanently out of the water.

The lighthouse has an interesting history, with the reef being first reported by Captain Savigny in 1812. The reef is also home to several sand cays, including Observatory Cay, which is the only permanently dry land aside from the lighthouse. The position of the sand cays can change over time, and the reef complex has been reported to have at least 4 or 5 other sand cays that do not cover with water at high tide. The current status of the lighthouse is not specified, but it remains an important navigational aid in the area.

Light and tower

It has a two-stage cylindrical tower with balcony and light tower. The tower is built of stainless Steel. Its daymark is white tower. The light has a focal height of 33 metres. The light has a range of 10 nautical miles. Its light characteristic is Fl W 5s. It was first lit in 1968. It is managed by Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The NGA list of lights numbers it 10220. The Admiralty list of lights numbers it K3016.