Lighthouse standing strong for 200 years

• Published date: 18 April 2024
• Author: Shahied Joseph shahied.joseph@acm.co.za
• Publication title: Atlantic Sun

Captain Sabelo Mdlalose, the lighthouse’s executive manager, joined the Green Point crew on April 1, and the former harbour master who completed his maritime studies at Technikon Natal in 1996 said he was proud to be part of this historical landmark

“It’s a national asset, it has value as a heritage building and it has a rich history.

“It’s an important structure as it serves as a navigational structure for the ships going in and out of the harbour, ships can check their positions using this lighthouse as a reference point for safety,” said Captain Mdlalose who is a former harbour master for the port of Cape Town as well as Richards Bay and Durban.

The lighthouse’s revolving electric light (with 850 000 candle power) at the top of the 16-metre building, flashes every 10 seconds and has a range of 25 nautical miles.

The 200-year old structure adheres to the rules of the International Maritime Organization as well as the International Association of Lighthouses.

“The main objective of these organisation is to harmonise the way navigation aids are maintained and controlled all over the world. So what they do in China is the same thing they do in Europe and here as well, so we use the same format internationally and it’s important for safety,” he said.

The building is maintained by a crew of 20 people, and close to 80 technicians service 43 other lighthouses around South Africa's coast.

Anroux Marias, MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport, said the structure is in excellent condition both inside and out.

“This building, she really wears her age very well. I want to say that this is a beacon of hope for Cape Town and the light brings the people safely to the shore. There are big ships like the Queen Mary 2 in the...