Sandy Duthie shares his unique experiences living in isolation while connecting with nature and history.
Scotsman Fulfills Lifelong Dream as Lighthouse Keeper on Australian Island
Scotsman Fulfills Lifelong Dream as Lighthouse Keeper on Australian Island
A Scottish man embraces his new role as a lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, revealing a rich history and vibrant wildlife.
Sandy Duthie, a 42-year-old from Aberdeenshire, Scotland, has landed what he describes as his “dream job” as a lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, a remote location off the coast of Victoria, Australia. Taking over from a retired lighthouse keeper who served for 25 years, Sandy now spends half of the year living on this picturesque island, surrounded by stunning wildlife and scenic views.
Sandy's journey to Gabo Island began five years ago when he traveled to Australia with his partner, Brodie Gaudion. This trip quickly evolved into a new life in the country, with Sandy drawn to the natural beauty and serene environment of Gabo Island during a visit two years prior. The historic Gabo Lighthouse, dating back over 160 years, became a symbol of his aspirations.
As a lighthouse keeper, Sandy shares a month-on, month-off rotation with another keeper, ensuring the proper maintenance of the island and its facilities. His responsibilities include everything from weather observations to maintaining the public restrooms, all while navigating the challenges posed by the island's unpredictable weather conditions.
Living on Gabo Island allows Sandy to experience the unique flora and fauna of the area. He often observes a large colony of little penguins along with whales, seals, and eagles which pass by the island, creating a vibrant ecosystem that enhances his daily life. However, this tranquil setting comes with its challenges, as Sandy acknowledges both the isolation and the unpredictability of life on the island.
Sandy reflects on the joys and difficulties of his position, describing how his solitary time enhances his appreciation for social interactions when he returns to the mainland. He has also uncovered fascinating connections between Gabo Island and Scotland, revealing that many of the lighthouse’s original builders were Scottish stonemasons.
Despite occasional feelings of isolation, Sandy views his role as the lighthouse keeper as a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature, history, and a personal dream of living on a remote island. He concludes that, for him, it truly is a 100% dream job.
Sandy's journey to Gabo Island began five years ago when he traveled to Australia with his partner, Brodie Gaudion. This trip quickly evolved into a new life in the country, with Sandy drawn to the natural beauty and serene environment of Gabo Island during a visit two years prior. The historic Gabo Lighthouse, dating back over 160 years, became a symbol of his aspirations.
As a lighthouse keeper, Sandy shares a month-on, month-off rotation with another keeper, ensuring the proper maintenance of the island and its facilities. His responsibilities include everything from weather observations to maintaining the public restrooms, all while navigating the challenges posed by the island's unpredictable weather conditions.
Living on Gabo Island allows Sandy to experience the unique flora and fauna of the area. He often observes a large colony of little penguins along with whales, seals, and eagles which pass by the island, creating a vibrant ecosystem that enhances his daily life. However, this tranquil setting comes with its challenges, as Sandy acknowledges both the isolation and the unpredictability of life on the island.
Sandy reflects on the joys and difficulties of his position, describing how his solitary time enhances his appreciation for social interactions when he returns to the mainland. He has also uncovered fascinating connections between Gabo Island and Scotland, revealing that many of the lighthouse’s original builders were Scottish stonemasons.
Despite occasional feelings of isolation, Sandy views his role as the lighthouse keeper as a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature, history, and a personal dream of living on a remote island. He concludes that, for him, it truly is a 100% dream job.
