Scottish Man Lands Dream Job as Lighthouse Keeper on Remote Australian Island
A Scottish man has achieved his lifelong dream by becoming a lighthouse keeper on a secluded Australian island.
Sandy Duthie, 42, seized the opportunity to take over as the lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, located off the coast of Victoria, when the previous keeper retired after 25 years of service.
Hailing from Aberdeenshire, Sandy fell in love with Australia during a visit five years ago with his partner. His connection to the small lighthouse island sparked a desire to become a part of its rich history.
Now, Sandy spends six months of the year on Gabo Island, alternating one month on and one month off, with a colony of penguins as his companions.
Originally from Kirkton of Durris near Banchory, Sandy studied ecology at the University of Aberdeen before pursuing a career as an arborist.
During a visit to Mallacoota in 2019 on a three-month holiday visa to meet his partner’s family, Sandy’s plans took an unexpected turn as he decided to stay in Australia.
His first encounter with Gabo Island was two years ago, and from that moment on, he aspired to become its caretaker.
The historic Gabo lighthouse, constructed over 160 years ago, now stands under Sandy’s watchful eye.
After the previous keeper, Leo op den Brouw, chose to retire and return to the mainland earlier this year, Sandy was selected for the job by Parks Victoria, the government organization responsible for the island.
Together with another keeper who has been on the island for 16 years, Sandy follows a month-on, month-off rotation schedule.
Sporting an impressive beard cultivated over many years, Sandy attributes his success in the job interview partly to his unique appearance.
Transport to and from the island is via a small boat charter, a journey that can be challenging due to choppy conditions and the presence of whales in the area.
Describing Gabo Island as reminiscent of his homeland in Scotland, Sandy praised its wildlife, including a large colony of little penguins, whales, sea eagles, and seals.
Embracing the lifestyle of a lighthouse keeper, Sandy emphasized the importance of adapting to the island’s unpredictable nature and being prepared for any challenges that may arise.
With tasks ranging from weather observations to general maintenance, Sandy’s role is not just a job but a way of life that requires flexibility and problem-solving skills.
For Sandy, the opportunity to live and work on Gabo Island is a dream come true, allowing him to immerse himself in a unique environment surrounded by nature’s beauty.
