Scotsman Realizes Dream as Lighthouse Keeper on Gabo Island

Sandy Duthie, a 42-year-old from Aberdeenshire, has taken on the role of lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, Australia, after the previous custodian retired. His love for the island, its picturesque wildlife, and the chance to live a unique lifestyle sparked his aspiration to inherit this rare position, where he must adjust to the island's unpredictable nature while enjoying stunning views and companionship from nature.

Sandy Duthie, a 42-year-old from Aberdeenshire, has fulfilled his lifelong aspiration of becoming a lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, located off the coast of Victoria, Australia. After the previous keeper retired following 25 years of service, Sandy eagerly applied for the job he had dreamed about since his initial visit to the island two years ago.

His journey began with a three-month holiday to Australia in 2019, where he accompanied his partner, Brodie Gaudion, to meet her family. Sandy immediately fell in love with Gabo Island during a two-week visit for weed control work, describing it as feeling like home and reminiscing about the northeast of Scotland. The island's unique landscape and wildlife, including a large colony of little penguins, sparked his admiration, and he knew he wanted to be part of its history.

Working for the government organization Parks Victoria, Sandy now spends six months of the year living on Gabo Island, sharing duties with another keeper who has held the position for over 16 years. His responsibilities cover a wide range of tasks that include weather observations, public maintenance, and ongoing repairs, necessitating adaptive problem-solving due to the island's often harsh conditions.

Sandy's job, he admits, is not without its challenges. Staying on the remote island can sometimes feel isolating, especially when weather conditions prevent a timely supply delivery or when he experiences extended periods of solitude. Nevertheless, he cherishes the freedom to shape his daily routine and finds his role deeply fulfilling.

Interestingly, Sandy has discovered a rich Scottish connection to Gabo Island, noting that the pink granite used in constructing the island's lighthouse likely originated from Scotland and that many past caretakers of the lighthouse have also been Scots. Reflecting on his unique position, Sandy wholeheartedly affirms that this job is a perfect fit, allowing him to live out his dream while preserving a piece of history.