International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend - ILLW

The International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend (ILLW) takes place annually during the third full weekend of August. Originally conceived in 1998 by John Forsyth and Mike Dalrymple of Scotland's Ayr Amateur Radio Group, the event has since grown into a major global gathering, attracting amateur radio operators from roughly 95 countries. Running parallel to the ILLW is the Lighthouse Heritage Weekend, hosted by the Association of Lighthouse Keepers. This initiative encourages lighthouse managers and keepers worldwide to open their facilities to the public, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the lighthouses and learn about their rich history. Today, the ILLW is coordinated by Kevin Mulcahy (call sign VK2CE), an Australian amateur radio operator who has been involved since the event's inception and now owns its domain and website. He is supported by a small team of dedicated volunteers. The event's impressive international turnout is largely driven by the backing and promotion of prominent amateur radio organizations, including the Radio Society of Great Britain, the American Radio Relay League, and the Wireless Institute of Australia.