New bid on GOR repair

GEELONG Otway Tourism will launch a new campaign seeking funding for the Great Ocean Road as its repair bill approaches $500 million, the organisation’s director has revealed.
Roger Grant said a “conservative” request of $50 million was a “base minimum” but federal funding could bolster the road to compete with international tourist attractions.
“We understand the political and economic climate but the ask of $50 million is reasonable and responsible. The reality is we could spend 10 times that.”
Mr Grant believed state and federal governments undervalued the road as “fundamental” part of Australia’s tourism strategy.
“Federal Government in particular needs to see it as a major tourism experience, not just a commuter route.”
Mr Grant said work was required on drainage problems, structural deterioration, road verges and car parking upgrades, wile sea level rises, changing weather patterns and land erosion also threatened the road’s longevity.
“Rather than get to a stage where it closes for months or, worse, collapses, let’s start to address this critical issue.”
Mr Grant said a G21 report had found that adequate maintenance of the road would create 212 jobs in the region.