Victoria’s celebrated south-west coastline will soon receive a new visitor attraction, with Simpson Construction Company appointed to create new lookout at the Loch Ard Gorge precinct, on Kirrae Wurrung country.

The new lookout will bring visitors up close to ‘The Blowhole’, a cutting in the land that fills with roaring water from the Southern Ocean.

The design of the lookout has been led by the Eastern Maar community, ensuring that it reflects the significant environmental and cultural values of the area.  

Geotechnical investigations have informed the construction approach for the project, which will boost the visitor experience at this dramatic spot on the Great Ocean Road, near the Twelve Apostles. 

The Twelve Apostles is also set to benefit from new views, with the Saddle Lookout nearing completion. Following a break in construction over the winter months, works have recommenced at the stunning cantilevered viewing area. The lookout is replacing infrastructure that no longer catered for booming visitor numbers, while also improving accessibility and safety at this iconic destination.

Parks Victoria and the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation are working together on both projects, which are part of Stage One of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan. The master plan is improving opportunities for visitors, strengthening the local economy, and providing employment opportunities through sustainable tourism.  

Completion of the Saddle Lookout is expected in late summer, while works on the Blowhole Lookout are expected to commence shortly after the busy Christmas–New Year visitor period.

For further information about the new lookouts coming to the Port Campbell National Park, visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects

Quotes attributable to Jason Borg, Parks Victoria Regional Director:

“It’s a busy and exciting time in Port Campbell National Park with projects that celebrate this special landscape and ensure it provides a memorable experience for the millions of people who visit.”

“These new viewing areas will improve accessibility and better showcase the dramatic scenery of this special environment.”

The new Saddle Lookout under construction at the Twelve Apostles. Credit: Parks Victoria

An artist's render of the new Blowhole Lookout at Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell National Park. Credit: Denton Corker Marshall