Lighthouses are a constant source of intrigue to many people.

Located at spectacular, sometimes remote and almost inaccessible locations around the coastline, there are more than 400 of these fascinating structures scattered around Australia's shores. Lighthouses carry a romantic aura and are visible reminders of our history and the fact that immigration in the sailing ship era formed the basis of the Australia which we know today.

Sailing to Australia was not only arduous but also a perilous undertaking. Many would-be immigrants lost their lives in shipwrecks around our coast when almost within sight of their destination, and the development of a network of lighthouses helped to make these journeys safer. Now automated and totally unmanned, these lighthouses today provide a valuable service to both merchant shipping and to recreational sailors.

They are also a popular setting for many people seeking to take their vows at a coastal location, and are often chosen by people from interstate or overseas who wish to have an outdoor civil wedding ceremony at a picturesque seaside site.

Point Lonsdale

Maggie and BJ came from Calgary in Canada to marry
in Australia beneath the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse
overlooking Port Phillip Heads

"Wow ... what else can we say? Oz was everything we hoped it would be - started on a high note with our perfect ceremony at the lighthouse, and just kept building from there. We were so very pleased with how things went ... we got the lighthouse we wanted, the nice warm day we had hoped for, and the ceremony was just splendid. Once again, thank you so very much for all you did - you gave us an absolutely fabulous ceremony... just perfect."

View live webcams from the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse (updated every 3 mins)

Queenscliff

Natalie and Gerry were married beneath the 'black' lighthouse at the Queenscliff fort, the bride being 'piped in' by a piper in traditional highland dress.

Aireys Inlet

Rox Anna and David came from
Indiana, USA, to marry within
sight of the Split Point light at
Aireys Inlet

"We just wanted to say how wonderful you made everything for us.  You made it very clear that whatever we wanted, you would do. And most important you made it soooo much fun! Ten months of emails and letters!! It was the best wedding and all because of you."