Rock and a hard place
AS far as views go, you could do worse than hanging off a cliff overlooking one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives.
VicRoads contractors are working to stabilise the cliff face along the Great Ocean Road, to prevent rocks falling on the famous route.
The 10-week project involves removing loose rocks by hand and lopping vegetation, along Big Hill, Cathedral Rock and Little Reedy Creek, east of Lorne.
Rock anchors are installed along the cliff-top at varying heights of 20-40m and then wire netting is lifted into place using a crane.
The wire netting follows the natural contours of the cliff face and, once secured, the pre-existing vegetation will regrow through the netting.
VicRoads has worked with Heritage Victoria to complete the works.
VicRoads south-western regional director Mark Koliba said the works would improve safety for all of the road’s users.
“Using wire rock netting means that major earthworks can be avoided and the aesthetic, ecological and heritage impacts are minimised,” he said. “The visual impact of the netting will soften over time as the pre-existing vegetation regrows through the netting.”
The works are part of a larger $50 million upgrade of the Great Ocean Road. Works on this 3km stretch will be completed in August.