In brief
Sandy Duthie, a 42-year-old from Aberdeenshire, is living his dream as a lighthouse keeper, sharing the isolated island with diverse wildlife after applying for the position left vacant by the previous keeper.
Sandy Duthie, a Scottish man aged 42, has landed his "dream job" as a lighthouse keeper on Gabo Island, a remote location off the coast of Victoria, Australia. His opportunity arose when the previous caretaker retired after 25 years. Originally from Aberdeenshire, Sandy had visited Australia five years ago and fell in love with the landscape, leading to his decision to stay permanently.For the next six months, Sandy will live on the island, rotating shifts with another keeper as they manage the lighthouse duties. His experience on the island dates back to two years prior when he was hired for weed control; it was there he fully recognized his desire to become part of Gabo Island’s history. The island, known for its wildlife, including little penguins and whales, has captivated him since his first visit.Built over 160 years ago, the Gabo Island lighthouse presents a blend of beauty and unique challenges for its keepers. Sandy commutes via a small boat, which allows him to enjoy the picturesque surroundings despite sometimes challenging weather conditions. Describing the lifestyle as one of adaptation, Sandy noted the importance of being flexible and prepared for unexpected tasks. His duties range from routine weather observations to maintaining the lighthouse and its surroundings. While the job has its solitary moments, he cherishes the opportunity to be immersed in nature and enjoys occasional visits from his partner.Interestingly, Sandy’s Scottish roots tie him to the history of the lighthouse, with earlier caretakers also hailing from Scotland. Reflecting on this connection, he expressed how it enriches his experience, stating, “It is 100% a dream job. For me it’s perfect.” While he acknowledges the isolation can evoke feelings of confinement at times, especially amidst rough weather that can extend his stays, Sandy embraces the freedom to set his own daily agenda. His story resonates as one of serendipity, showing how opportunities can lead adventurous souls to where they truly belong.
