Your Great Ocean Road- Hidden dangers in plain sight

Published on 31 January 2025

For many, the glorious Australian summer is synonymous with time spent on the beach, and for many of us, it’s spent right here on the Great Ocean Road along a spectacular stretch of rugged, majestic cliffs.

In fact, cliffs and bluffs occupy 46% of the Victorian coastline and include some of our most iconic natural sites. Yet as awe-inspiring as they are, these cliffs are unpredictable and demand our respect.

These unseen risks are why the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks is launching a cliff safety campaign this month, urging locals and visitors to embrace knowledge as the first step toward safety.

THE ALLURE OF THE COASTLINE AND THE NEED FOR RESPECT

The Great Ocean Road draws millions of visitors each year, offering experiences as varied as the towering majesty of the Twelve Apostles to the quiet solitude of Rocky Point.

Yet, the same forces that created this rugged beauty also make it fragile. Cliffs that have stood for millennia are constantly shaped by waves, wind, and rain. Erosion can undermine their stability, making even the most solidlooking edges unsafe.

This dynamic coastline demands our respect. That’s why it’s vital to understand the risks and take simple but effective precautions.

KEY SAFETY TIPS

At the heart of our campaign are four crucial steps to help everyone stay safe:

Stay away from cliffs and caves: Cliffs can collapse without warning. As tempting as it might be to seek shade or explore near their base, loose rocks and sudden collapses pose significant risks.

Stick to Established Tracks: The paths and barriers are there to guide you safely. They’re positioned to protect both visitors and the fragile environment. Venturing off-track increases the chances of finding yourself on unstable ground.

See the signs and follow guidance: Warning signs aren’t just there for decoration. They’re carefully placed based on expert assessments of potential hazards. Curious minds and ignoring signs don’t mix.

Share the word and warn others: Safety is a shared responsibility. Talk to friends and family about staying cautious. Awareness can make all the difference.

HIDDEN RISKS, BIG IMPACTS

While our soaring cliffs captivate with their dramatic beauty, they’ve also been the sites of recent instability and collapses. At Point Roadknight, a five-metre section of undercut cliff fell in August last year without warning. In Anglesea, large cracks and falls at Demons Bluff have led to ongoing closures to protect the public. Similarly, we saw a recent fall between Soapy Rock and Anglesea SLSC.

We also know that cliff instability has led to the continued closure of the Loch Ard Gorge steps this summer as we continue to evaluate options for this iconic site. While the Rocky Point beach access stairs, temporarily closed in 2022, will remain closed due to safety concerns based on recent geotechnical advice.

These incidents highlight the unseen forces constantly reshaping the coast.

I WOULDN’T STAND THERE, BUDDY

Safety along the Great Ocean Road isn’t about sacrificing the experience, it’s about enhancing it. By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can enjoy the coast’s beauty without compromising their well-being:

Stay Behind Barriers: Barriers are there to keep people safe. A quick selfie isn’t worth risking your life.

Stick to Paths: Established tracks are designed to minimise risk while offering the best views. Straying off them increases the likelihood of encountering unstable terrain.

Stay Alert to Falling Rocks: Even small rocks falling from above can cause serious harm. Avoid lingering at the base of cliffs, no matter how inviting the shade may seem.

NATURE DOESN’T NEGOTIATE

This month’s campaign isn’t about rules or lectures; it’s about raising awareness and responsibility. Beyond signage and social media posts, we aim to spark conversations with friends and family, ensuring everyone understands the importance of staying safe.

The cliffs along the Great Ocean Road are more than geological formations. They’re living, breathing parts of the landscape, constantly evolving and reshaping themselves.

Respecting their power is a sign of our appreciation for their beauty.

A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Cliff safety isn’t a seasonal effort, or a fancy campaign; it’s a commitment with real consequences. Our crews work tirelessly to monitor and respond to changes along the coastline. From installing warning signs to assessing risks after storms, their efforts are crucial in minimising the risks.

But this commitment requires your participation. By staying informed, following guidance, and sharing knowledge, everyone can contribute to a safer coastline.

So, the next time you gaze out over the cliffs or stroll along the sands, take a moment to appreciate not just the view but the unseen risks and the precautions that keep you safe.

When we embrace safety as part of the journey, we can all enjoy the Great Ocean Road’s natural beauty. Please help spread the word.

Caleb Hurrell

Coastal Reserves Manager