HMAS SYDNEY I mast lights are switched on. Pic: CPO Cameron Martin.

Sydney has a landmark which can be seen both day and night.

It is the mast of HMAS SYDNEY I which stands on Bradleys Head, Sydney Harbour.

Since it was raised in 1933 the mast had stood unlit beside the harbour. Any flags flown from its halyards had to be drawn at dusk, as is tradition.

That changed on June 14 in a ceremony at the mast.

The Prime Minister switched on a set of 1000 candlepower lamps which now flood light the 27-metre high structure.

The mast also continually carries the Australian National Flag, thanks to the lights.

The Maritime Commander, RADM John Lord, had the honour of breaking open the flag at the ceremony.

The ceremony follows several months of refurbishment by officers and sailors from FIMA/Garden Island.

The driving forces behind the refurbishment and lighting project were the Mosman RSL Sub Branch and the Warringah branch of the Australia Remembers Trust.

Support was provided by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Solar Technology, the Waterways Authority and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veterans Affairs donated $10,000 toward the $49,000 it cost to provide the lights and support work.

A large crowd was on hand to watch the official "switch-on."