The Great Ocean Road is not just a road; it’s a living piece of history and the biggest war memorial in the world built to honour the soldiers who fought in World War I. It winds along Victoria’s south coast for over 240km, with rugged coastline, ancient forests and views. From Bells Beach to the limestone cliffs of Port Campbell, this iconic tourist spot is a true blue Aussie spirit and creativity. Its creation is a story of determination, hard yakka and a vision to create a memorial for future generations.
The Need for a Coastal Route
In the early 1900s, Victoria’s southeast coast was a wild and isolated region. Coastal towns like Apollo Bay and Port Fairy were cut off from the rest of the state by rough terrain and rough roads. Access to these cute towns with their historic ports and European settlements was limited. The lack of infrastructure was holding back economic growth, particularly for industries like timber, fishing, and tourism. A scenic road was needed to connect the isolated towns and a utilitarian memorial for soldiers returning from war.
Planning for a Scenic Coastal Road
The idea for the Great Ocean Road was conceived by Howard Hitchcock, the “Father of the Road”, and supported by men like William Calder and William Irvine. The project was an engineering feat that would be a memorial and open the region to tourism. Private subscriptions funded most of the construction, with locals and businesses paying shillings for cars and motor wagons. The road was planned for a dual purpose: a practical route through the wild southwest coast and a tourist attraction with ocean views and clifftop vistas.
The Construction Era: Hard Yakka and Triumph
The Great Ocean Road construction began in 1919 with returned soldiers doing the hard yakka as part of a scheme to get them back to work and re-integrate into civilian life. The terrain was brutal: rocky cliffs, sheer drops and dense forests. Anecdotal evidence suggests workers relied on barrels of beer, mateship and sheer willpower to get through the tough conditions. The use of basic tools and the weather, heavy rain, and winds from Bass Strait made it a physical and mental challenge.
They got on with it and built a road through Victoria’s wild country. As the road progressed in sections, coastal towns began seeing the benefits of better access and connectivity. It’s a story of determination and triumph, a true blue Aussie spirit.
Timeframe for Completion
The Great Ocean Road was built in stages over 13 years. The first section from Eastern View to Lorne was opened in 1924 with the unveiling of the memorial arch – a symbol of the road being a tribute to Australian soldiers. Work continued for several years after that and was finally completed in 1932. What a long and tough journey to get to the end of it all. Hitchcock didn’t live to see the end of the project.
Today, the Great Ocean Road is a reality, a combination of infrastructure and memorial that has impacted so many lives..
The Essential Facts
The Great Ocean Road is officially a war memorial. It’s about reconciliation and the sacrifices of Australian soldiers. From Torquay to Allansford, it has landmarks like Cathedral Rock and London Arch, with blue water views of Bass Strait. It’s a tough drive with dramatic views of rugged terrain, historic shipwrecks, and limestone cliffs that tell the stories of shipwrecks of old.
Heritage Buildings
Along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find heritage buildings that tell the story of early European settlement and the development of the region. The Lorne Historical Society has artifacts and records of the history of the coastal towns. The Cape Otway Lighthouse from the 1840s reminds you of the challenges of navigating Bass Strait, and the Portland Anglican Church and Battery Point give a glimpse into the colonial past.
These heritage sites offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who shaped Victoria’s coastline, in addition to its natural beauty.
Significant Towns Along the Route
The Great Ocean Road links a series of beautiful towns, each with its own charm. Torquay the Start is famous for surfing and Bells Beach. Lorne, surrounded by ancient rainforest trails, is the arts and culture hub with beachfront campsites and a lively community. Apollo Bay has natural beauty and seaside charm with access to the Great Otway National Park walking tracks. Port Campbell near the Twelve Apostles has dramatic views and access to the shipwreck stories along the coast.
West of that, Port Fairy has history and modern tourism with historic ports and an arts scene. Each town on this road is a personal journey through Victoria’s coastline.
Ocean Road Today
FAQ
Why was the Great Ocean Road built?
The Great Ocean Road was built to memorialize soldiers who served in World War I and connect coastal towns.
What’s along the Great Ocean Road?
Twelve Apostles, London Arch, Bells Beach, Cape Otway Lighthouse and coast views.
How long did it take to build the Great Ocean Road?
Construction started in 1919 and finished in 1932 – over 10 years.
Which towns can you visit?
Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell – each have their own character and things to do.
Is the Great Ocean Road only for driving?
No, the road also offers opportunities for hiking, surfing, exploring historic sites, and enjoying nature trails.
