Tenders sought for construction of new Blowhole lookout in the Port Campbell National Park

Tenders are being sought for early contractor involvement, design and construction of a new lookout in the Port Campbell National Park to bring visitors up-close to ‘The Blowhole’, offering another place to view the dramatic scenery of Shipwreck Coast.

The coastal environment of the Port Campbell National Park is spectacular but fragile. The new Loch Ard Blowhole Lookout will ensure the landscape is protected while allowing visitors to enjoy the spectacular view over the blowhole.

Geotechnical investigations and extensive community and industry engagement have informed the approach for the new Blowhole Lookout, mitigating risks posed by the natural erosion of the limestone rock.

The Victorian Government is investing $5.5 million towards the project on Kirrae Wurrung Country that will be delivered as part of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan.

Victorian Minister for Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio notes “This investment will help protect the unique environment and landscape within the national park as well as encourage important regional and nature-based tourism economy.”

The Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation led the design of the lookout, ensuring the environmental and cultural characteristics of the site are respected. The lookout sits hidden in the landscape and curves around the edge of the blowhole without impeding the symbolic breathing of the whale.

The Port Campbell National Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape and is home to unique coastal vegetation, habitat and wildlife as well as some of Victoria’s most popular tourist spots.

Another new lookout is also underway at the nearby Twelve Apostles to be completed this summer, the lookouts are being delivered as part of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan and will be complemented by the $108.15 million Geelong City Deal - Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment.

Other recent upgrades include a 60-metre suspension bridge at Port Campbell and an 11-kilometre water and sewage pipeline to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre to service the growing tourist population.

Works on the Blowhole Lookout are expected to start next year. For more information visit parks.vic.gov.au/projects/western-victoria/loch-ard-blowhole-lookout.

Image: Artist Impression Loch ard gorge blowhole lookout render Credit: Denton Corker Marshall