Get ready for a safer summer along the Great Ocean Road
Published on 14 November 2024
We are encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead for a safe and enjoyable summer on the coast.
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most popular destinations and attracts more visitors than the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru combined.
With summer on the horizon, the area is expected to experience a surge in visitation numbers this summer, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
This year the message is simple – be informed, be prepared, be safe. Key focus areas for the summer season include water safety, cliff safety, emergency preparedness, and safe travel.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting one of the hottest summers on record, with above-average temperatures and the potential for more extreme heat events expected across the region.
Australia’s climate is strongly influenced by surrounding ocean temperatures, which, combined with increased moisture, could also mean more frequent storms and an elevated risk of bushfires.
That’s why it’s especially important to prepare early for any trips along the Great Ocean Road.
To support locals and visitors during bushfire season, we have launched a new web page listing all designated Bushfire Places of Last Resort across the region.
These safe spots are there as a refuge if evacuation isn’t possible during an emergency. You can access this resource at: www.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/Environment/Bushfire-Place-of-Last-Resort
We recently held a joint briefing with Life Saving Victoria on Thursday 31 October in preparation for summer.
More than 55 people heard the latest insights on the upcoming season with a detailed outlook on bushfire preparedness, response plans, weather forecasts and the 2024 Drowning Report statistics review.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable summer, it’s crucial to stay informed about both the risks of extreme weather and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
If you’re planning to be one of the 100 million people to enjoy the surf, sand, and sun at one of Australia’s 12,000 patrolled beaches this summer, then make sure your visit is a safe one.
If you're heading to the beach, consider downloading the Beachsafe app for real-time updates on beach conditions and rip currents, and keep the VicEmergency app handy for any emergency alerts or warnings.
Attribute to Director Community, Corporate Affairs and Visitor Economy, Andy Mathers
“Whether you’re a short-term visitor or a resident now is the time to understand your risk, create an up-to-date plan, know where to go to stay informed and look out for each other.
“If you’re staying at one of our Great Ocean Road Parks, please follow all evacuation directions provided by our experienced park managers.
“They are trained to ensure your safety during an emergency and will provide timely instructions on what to do.
“So grab your sunscreen, plan ahead, and let’s make it a summer to remember – for all the right reasons.”