Surf Coast Shire Council has launched an urgent plea for millions of dollars in state funding to address a significant and complex landslide threatening a key section of the iconic Great Ocean Road.
Urgent Funding Request for Critical Repairs
The council is formally seeking $3 million from the Victorian government to finance essential stabilisation and repair works. This substantial sum is required to tackle the ongoing land movement near the Cinema Point cliff between Lorne and Cumberland River, which has progressively worsened since it was first identified.
Council officers have highlighted the severity of the situation, noting the landslide is actively moving and poses a direct risk to the road's structural integrity. The damage is not superficial; it involves deep-seated ground movement that requires a sophisticated engineering solution to prevent further deterioration and ensure long-term safety for the thousands of motorists who use this scenic route.
A Complex and Evolving Threat
The landslide site presents a unique challenge for engineers. Unlike a simple surface slip, this is a "complex, deep-seated landslide" that demands extensive geotechnical investigation and a carefully designed intervention strategy. The council has already undertaken preliminary measures, including the installation of monitoring equipment to track the ground's movement.
However, these are temporary steps. A permanent fix is now critical. The requested $3 million would fund the detailed design and construction of engineered stabilisation works. The goal is to halt the slide's progression and safeguard the road formation for the future, protecting one of Australia's most famous tourist drives from potentially catastrophic failure.
Protecting an Iconic Tourist Route
The Great Ocean Road is more than just a transport link; it is a vital economic artery for the Surf Coast and the state. Any prolonged closure or significant damage to the road would have severe repercussions for local businesses, tourism operators, and communities that rely on the constant flow of visitors.
By proactively seeking this funding, Surf Coast Shire Council aims to prevent a larger crisis. The investment in stabilisation now is far more cost-effective than dealing with a major road collapse later. The council's submission to the state government underscores the project's importance, framing it as essential infrastructure protection for a nationally significant asset.
All eyes are now on the Victorian government as it considers the council's urgent request. The timely allocation of the $3 million in funding will determine how quickly engineers can move from monitoring the problem to implementing a permanent solution for the Great Ocean Road.
