great ocean road

The Australian and Victorian Governments have each committed $25m towards a comprehensive package of works on Great Ocean Road.

Great Ocean Road is a 243km stretch of road between the cities of Torquay and Warrnambool in the state of Victoria, Australia.

Work of safety improvements will be initiated this week to prevent rocks from falling on to the Great Ocean Road between Fairhaven and Lorne.

As part of the project, new rock netting will be installed along Great Ocean Road to ensure the journey is safe and reliable for motorists.

"The Great Ocean Road is a major drawcard for thousands of visitors each year."

Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the work is part of the government’s commitment to upgrade the iconic road.

Truss said: "The Great Ocean Road is a major drawcard for thousands of visitors each year, who use the road to visit the region’s magnificent beaches and national parks, as well as major attractions such as the Twelve Apostles."

Federal member for Corangamite Sarah Henderson said the works were vital to prevent loose rocks falling from the cliff face between Fairhaven and Lorne, creating hazards for drivers and cyclists.

Henderson said: "This work will clear existing loose rocks and install wire netting over the cliff face to prevent future rock falls."

According to the government, this upgrade is important, as rock falls can close Great Ocean Road at times, impacting local businesses and residents.

Works on the Great Ocean Road is expected to be completed by the end of July.

Image: The curves of Great Ocean Road as viewed from Teddy’s Lookout south of Lorne in Victoria, Australia. Photo: courtesy of David Iliff via Wikipedia.