URGENT UPDATE: Work has officially begun to reopen the iconic Gibson Steps along the Great Ocean Road, following a closure triggered by a significant rockfall on June 8, 2025. This essential access point to the popular beach at Loch Ard Gorge remains closed, causing growing concerns among locals about emergency access to the ocean.
The closure, initially expected to be temporary, faced complications as authorities reported further rockfalls in July 2025. Investigations revealed an increase in water flow adjacent to the cliff, necessitating additional safety assessments. The rockfall was attributed to heavy rains and the natural erosion of the cliff’s sedimentary limestone and clay composition. A large rock overhang was exposed, prompting comprehensive geotechnical inspections.
Residents have expressed serious concerns over the prolonged closure, fearing the implications for emergency responses off the coast. “We need access to the ocean for safety,” one local stated, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
As of this week, work has commenced to ensure the swift reopening of Gibson Steps, nearly eight months after its initial closure. The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is actively exploring both short-term and long-term options to restore beach access at Loch Ard Gorge. However, the beach remains shuttered since its closure in May 2023 due to safety issues.
In a positive development, a new $8 million viewing platform overlooking the nearby blowhole was inaugurated in July 2025, providing visitors with a new attraction while work continues on a $126 million visitor center for the Twelve Apostles.
Meanwhile, access to The Arch has been closed since February 2022 due to significant cliff movement, with no plans currently to reopen. In November 2022, Wild Dog Cove beach at Peterborough was also temporarily closed over fears of rock collapse, further underscoring the safety challenges in the region.
The reopening of Gibson Steps is crucial not only for tourism but also for local safety and emergency access. As the situation develops, officials are urging residents and visitors to stay informed about ongoing updates and safety measures.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story as authorities work to ensure the safety and accessibility of one of Australia’s most iconic coastal attractions.
