The iconic Great Ocean Road faces an uncertain reopening timeline as authorities conduct urgent safety assessments on several bridges damaged by recent severe flooding.
Critical Infrastructure Under Assessment
Following significant flood events in June, engineers from the Department of Transport and Planning are meticulously examining the structural integrity of key bridges along the renowned coastal route. The focus is on the Jamieson Creek and Wye River bridges, where floodwaters have caused substantial scouring and erosion around the foundational supports.
Regional Director for Barwon South West, Michaela Settle, confirmed that specialist teams are on the ground. "The safety of all road users is our absolute priority," Ms Settle stated. The detailed assessments will determine the extent of repairs required before any section can be safely reopened to traffic.
Ongoing Closures and Community Impact
A critical stretch of the road between Skenes Creek and Lavers Hill (near the Otway National Park turn-off) remains completely closed. This major disruption is severing the vital link for residents, businesses, and the crucial tourism trade between popular towns like Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles.
The closure is forcing lengthy detours inland via the Colac-Lavers Hill Road, adding significant travel time. Local businesses that rely on the steady flow of visitors along the scenic route are reporting a sharp downturn in trade during what is typically a busy period.
Looking Ahead: Repairs and Reconnection
While the full assessment is underway, authorities have not been able to provide a definitive date for the road's reopening. The complexity of the damage, particularly the underwater scouring at bridge piers, requires thorough investigation before repair plans can be finalised and work can commence.
Transport officials are urging all motorists and tourists to heed the closure signs and plan their journeys using the official detour routes. Real-time traffic updates and the status of the Great Ocean Road can be checked via the VicTraffic website and app. The community awaits further announcements as the assessments near completion, hoping for a swift and safe return of their iconic roadway.
