Cape Byron Lighthouse. Photograph by Chris Partridge.

Lighthouses are a strong symbol of maritime life. They represent danger at sea, the need for good navigation and the importance of ships' crews and the lighthouses keepers keeping a good lookout.

The site of a familiar beacon in the midst of a storm brought great comfort to many a voyager and ship's captain.

Today, the role of lighthouses has been replaced by radio and satellite communication. Now they have become important tourist destinations, often overlooking spectacular coastal scenery.