On this day – June 19 1841.

Society member, Daryl Wight has selected these two extracts from the pages of The Geelong Advertiser from June 19, 1841 . They give the reader a glimpse into the concerns of the day and clues to hardships ensured.

The Geelong Advertiser was worried about the weather and had immediate concerns with the wet weather and the challenges that the heavy rain might have on the Breakwater. They also mused on the problems of navigation through the heads and into Geelong Bay.

THE BREAKWATER.- The late rains have caused such a rise in the waters of the Barwon, that some fears are felt for the stability of the breakwater. The
rush of water against that wall of rude masonry is so impetuous, that at least all the clay and earth employed in its construction will to a certainty be washed away. so that nothing will he left, when the dry weather returns, to prevent the ingress of salt water with the tide. No bad effects can result in the mean time, however, and the injury will.be easily repaired, when occasion shall require it

Sat June 19 1841 Page 2 The Breakwater

The Addy also discussed the need to improve navigational aids both to better identify the heads and to mark the channels to Geelong at Pope’s Eye.

THE LIGHTHOUSE. — The Committee appointed to decide on the most eligible situation for a lighthouse have at length recommended that a revolving light be placed on Cape Schank, and a lantern on Shortland's Bluff. In our opinion, as well as that of the several nautical gentlemen whom we have spoken to on the subject, and who are evidently the most competent judges, the light on Cape Schank will not only in a great measure insure the safety of coasting vessels, but will also be of considerable benefit to vessels running through the straits, as it frequently happens from the prevalence of strong southerly winds, they approach the northern coast unavoidably nearer than agreeable; it will also prevent the possibility of the headlands to the westward of our Bay being taken one for another, and Western Port for this. With respect to the lantern on Shortland's Bluff, we think the expense of its erection would fall but little short of the cost of a substantial building; nor would the quantity of oil consumed in lighting it be greater than that necessary for a lantern. At all events, it should show a coloured light, to distinguish it from the native fires. While on this subject it would be as well to observe, that the channel should be properly buoyed off; the buoys on one side being chequered black and white, on the other red— these colors being the most conspicuous on the water; the Pope's eye buoy might be distinguished by a beacon. But one thing more is requisite to make our port secure from accidents, namely a floating light to the northward of thesands; 'vessels. would then.be able at all times to run through the channel with safety. However, we are glad to see that something, is in progress, and I  hope ere long our bay will be so lighted and buoyed that it will be as easy and safe a port to enter as Sydney.

Sat June 19 1841 Page 2 The Geelong Advertiser