It is the second oldest extant lighthouse tower in Australia, as well as having the longest (158 years) history of being continuously manned.

[2] The project was commissioned by Governor George Arthur in 1835 after a series of shipwrecks south of Bruny Island and construction began in April 1836.

[3] Cape Bruny was initially illuminated by a Wilkins lantern, consuming one pint of sperm whale oil per hour.

[2] In December 2000 the light station area, including the lighthouse, became part of the South Bruny National Park.

Volunteers live on-site in the caretakers cottage for four-week periods, assisting with repairs and general maintenance.