Point Gellibrand Lighthouse (Former) - The Timeball Tower'

The former Point Gellibrand Lighthouse or Timeball Tower is of local historic and aesthetic significance to the City of Hobsons Bay. It is also of historical, scientific and technical importance to the State of Victoria.

Historically, it is significant as the earliest lighthouse at Port Phillip Bay; the second constructed under the New South Wales Colonial Government in the Port Phillip area and it also occupies the approximate site of Victoria's first 'lighthouse'. The earliest surviving public building in Williamstown, if not Melbourne, it is a local landmark, which is evocative of Williamstown's special role as Melbourne's first port. (AHC criteria A4 and G1)

Aesthetically, it is significant as an unusual early lighthouse design, which is notable for its unique square plan and castellations (not used elsewhere) and as one of the few constructed of basalt. (AHC criteria B2, E1 and F1)

Note: The former Port Gellibrand Lighthouse is also of State significance and is included on the Victorian Heritage Register as VHR H1649

Group

Transport - Water

Category

Lighthouse