The Lighthouse Keeper

From the Film Australia Collection. Made by the National Film Board 1949. Directed by Lionel Trainor. The life of the lighthouse keeper is a lonely one, but his work is vital to the safeguard of shipping. His first duty is to care for the light which must be kept working accurately at all times. A six months supply of food must be kept in store. His children are taught by correspondence. The transmission of messages and warnings to ships in storms and back to the authorities on the mainland is a vital part of his work. The arrival of the supply ship brings a welcome break to the loneliness and monotony of his life. This film illustrates the life of the keeper on remote and barren Maatsuyker Island off the coast of Tasmania.