The world's largest war memorial is a 240-kilometre stretch of coastal road
In short: Built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932, the Great Ocean Road serves a purpose far beyond tourism. Dedicated to those killed in World War I, this winding route through Victoria's rugged coastline stands as a monumental tribute to fallen servicemen.
The project began as a response to the isolation of Victoria's south-west coast, which was previously accessible only by sea or rough bush tracks. In 1918, the Great Ocean Road Trust was formed under president Howard Hitchcock, securing £81,000 in capital through private subscriptions and borrowing. The plan was to repay this debt via tolls before gifting the road to the state.
Construction was a perilous undertaking, primarily completed by hand using pick and shovel, wheelbarrows, and explosives. Approximately 3,000 returned servicemen were employed, earning 10 shillings and sixpence for an eight-hour day. The work was often dangerous; several workers were killed during construction, and the terrain was so rugged that survey teams progressed at a rate of only about three kilometres per month.
Finishing in November 1932, this project proved a major regional milestone, evolving from a perceived 'wild-cat scheme' into an essential artery for tourism and the timber sector. Today, the 240-kilometre route is an Australian National Heritage-listed landmark, stretching from Torquay to Allansford and offering views over the Southern Ocean and Bass Strait.
The road's history is marked by both human and natural challenges. While workers once faced the physical strain of manual labor, the road itself has faced constant battle against the elements, suffering from landslides, storms, and bushfires. Despite these obstacles, it has evolved from a challenging single-vehicle track into a world-renowned scenic route.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Great Ocean Road
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/wars-great-ocean-road.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in War memorials & museums · More in Wars & Conflicts · Latest · A–Z · All topics
