New path to connect Surf Coast locations

WORKS are set to begin in the coming days on a new path linking the inland Torquay Golf Course trail to the oceanside Surf Coast Trail.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has determined sections of the Surf Coast Trail between the Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Club and Rocky Point are facing permanent closure within the next few years due to erosion.

Independent geotechnical assessments reveal 1.5m of the cliff could erode over the next 20 years.

The new inland path will ensure people can continue to access the eastern end of Jan Juc Beach safely and enjoy its ocean views when sections of the trail do close.

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority director of environment and coastal operations Leia Howes said people’s safety was the top priority.

“We understand that the coastal trail is much-loved, and many people will be saddened that it is being impacted by erosion.

 

“Erosion – caused by natural processes and accelerated by the impacts of climate change – means the east section of the coastal trail will soon no longer be safe for trail users.

“We’ve long been preparing for this reality and are taking proactive and long-term action to ensure people can continue to move safely between Jan Juc and Torquay by creating access to the inland path near Torquay Golf Course.”

Weather permitting, works are expected to take one week to complete.

Temporarily closures will be in place on the inland golf course trail during construction, and safety signage will be installed to guide users.

The existing trail remains open for now, with safety barriers and consistent monitoring in place.

Trail users are reminded to follow all safety signs and avoid closed sections of the trail.

For more information, head to haveyoursay.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/jan-juc-cliff-trail