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The spectacular climb at the Cape Otway Lightstation is set to re-open on Monday 16th December 2024 whilst ongoing essential works continue across the site. 

The lighthouse climb was closed after a magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck the Otway Ranges on Sunday 22 October 2023, causing mercury to spill from the lighthouse lens.  

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks in collaboration with Parks Victoria and specialist contractors, have completed an extensive schedule of decontamination and testing works to ensure that the lighthouse can safely be accessed and enjoyed by visitors once again. 

During this time there was no access to the inside of the Lighthouse, however the wider Lightstation precinct and other heritage buildings were unaffected and remained open following the earthquake with a discounted entry fee.  

Essential conservation works to protect and conserve the significant heritage site will continue over the coming years and whilst ongoing access will be maintained to the site there may be some impacts on services.  

In preparation for a busy summer season, works to improve the public toilets in our car park will take place this week, with temporary toilets provided for the duration of works. The café will also be closed at times over the coming fortnight.  

As the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia and widely regarded as one of the nation’s most significant, the Cape Otway Lightstation—built in 1848 and famously known as the ‘Beacon of Hope’—remains a premier attraction along the Great Ocean Road.