What a Keeper

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands at the most south-westerly point of Australia, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.

As the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia and one of the world’s five great capes, it remains an important beacon for mariners and a place of discovery for visitors. But there’s something else that makes this place special: Paul Sofilas—Australia’s longest-serving lighthouse guide and caretaker.

For 25 years, Paul has welcomed visitors from around the world, sharing his knowledge of Cape Leeuwin’s unique environment, maritime history, and the important role lighthouses play in our coastal landscapes.

Paul’s time at Cape Leeuwin has seen significant changes, including the lighthouse’s full restoration in 2021 and ongoing conservation and revegetation work across the site. He has contributed to these efforts alongside specialist staff and the Friends of Leeuwin volunteers.

Paul has also played an important role in connecting the Augusta community with the lighthouse. From hosting open days and fundraising events to helping secure the dual-purpose walk and cycle trail from Augusta to the Cape, he has worked hard to make the lighthouse more accessible in a sustainable way.

His love of cycling often intersects with his work at the Cape. In 2005, Paul joined the ‘Big Ride’ from Albany to Perth with more than 2,000 riders. After completing a 98 km ride from Nannup to Augusta one morning, he returned to the lighthouse to guide seven back-to-back tours—climbing more than 1,200 stairs that day. “Exhausting but exhilarating,” he recalls. “I slept well that night!

Paul has also cycled from Cape Leeuwin to Perth and from Sydney to Canberra as part of the ‘Links in the Chain’ Centenary of Federation event, raising awareness of Cape Leeuwin’s place in Australian maritime history and raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.