History

Pre European use of the Isles was for hunting, as sacred ceremonial site and for settling inter -tribal disputes among local indigenous peoples.
Capt. James Cook noted in his log dated 10 June 17770 that “two low isles appeared in the offing”.  
In 1858 the light house was erected. From 1858 to 1992 the lighthouse was maintained by a head lighthouse keeper and family and two assistant lighthouse keepers and their families.
The lagoon between the two isles was used as a sheltered anchorage by the many pearling luggers, trading vessels and fishing fleets that plied the northern Great Barrier Reef.
In 1992 the community of Port Douglas formed the Low Isles Preservation Society (LIPS). The Society, in partnership with Management Agencies now assists in the daily management of the Low Isles.
A full time caretaker and family currently live on Low Isle.