Gadubanud Country

This project is on the lands of the Gadubanud People, part of Eastern Maar Nation.

Project update: April 2026

Construction commencement

Works to replace the existing beach access ramp will kick off in May, with completion expected by the end of June.

The existing ramp is damaged and slippery with the new one designed to be stronger and safer thanks to handrails, fall protection and non-slip decking.

The new ramp will match the existing in its style, size and alignment, but includes structural upgrades so it is stronger and able to better survive in the dynamic coastal conditions.

While works are underway, the existing stairs and ramp will be inaccessible and there may be associated construction noise during the day.

There is an alternate beach access point under 100 metres away for continued public access to the area.

Great Ocean Walk users can continue to access the trail through the Marengo Family Caravan Park if the beach is inaccessible due to tides or construction.

The new ramp will be similar to the one pictured below, featuring fibre‑reinforced plastic (FRP) decking, with stainless steel handrails on one side and steel balustrades.


Project overview

The Marengo beach access ramp is an important entry point to the rock shelf and beach at the southern end of Mounts Bay. The existing ramp has provided access for many years but is now due for replacement to address both safety concerns and the evolving needs of the community and users.

Why replace the ramp?

The existing ramp has reached the end of its life and is due for replacement. The timber elements have deteriorated and require frequent maintenance, bolts and other fixings have rusted and the signage needs to be updated.

The ramp needs to be replaced to ensure safe and reliable access into the future.

While the ramp's alignment has held up against climate impacts, the current structure does not fully meet the safety and accessibility needs of users and has aged in the harsh coastal environment meaning it now needs replacement.


The coast is an ever-changing environment, shaped by natural processes such as erosion, wave action and storm activity. In this region, we face specific challenges due to the exposure of the site to erosion and the presence of slippery rocks, which can make the ramp's accessibility and safety more challenging, especially during extreme weather events.

As we work to replace the Marengo ramp, it is essential to consider the impact of these coastal dynamics. The design needs to ensure continued safe access to the beach while being resilient to the changing conditions of the coastline.

In the long term, we will continue to monitor these challenges and adapt the infrastructure, accordingly, keeping community input at the forefront of our decision-making.

This project is part of a broader effort to manage coastal hazards across the Great Ocean Road, in line with the Victorian Resilient Coast Guidelines under section 41 of the Marine and Coastal Act 2018.

We're committed to working with the community and experts to create sustainable, safe and accessible solutions, while being mindful of the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.

Stay up to date with projects and opportunities to engage with us on our Have Your Say Webpage

Click Here to download the FAQ

Understanding the area...

Have Your Say

The engagement period is now closed. Thank you for your contribution.

In November and December 2024, we asked for your feedback on the future of the Marengo ramp.

Through an online survey and two in-person drop-in sessions we heard from local community members, visitors, and key stakeholders.

Your input is helping us:

  • Understand how the ramp and surrounding area are used
  • Identify what matters most to the community
  • Incorporate your preferences on design features, safety, and aesthetics into the final concept
  • Ensure the new ramp is safe, environmentally appropriate, and meets community needs

We’ve summarised what we heard in the Engagement Summary Report, which you can download below.

Click here to download the engagement report open in new window

Ramp site gallery

Project Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - complete

    Community Engagement

    We are gathering community feedback on the Marengo beach access ramp to inform the new design that will replace the existing ramp. Engagement is open from 18 November until 15 December.

  • Timeline item 2 - complete

    Ramp Design and Engagement Report

    A ramp design will be developed based on best practice coastal and marine management, in accordance with current legislation and policy. Development of the design will consist of Traditional Owner inclusion, community feedback and management considerations. Alongside the design will be a Community Engagement Summary Report, detailing what we heard through community feedback and how it has been considered.

  • Timeline item 3 - incomplete

    Construction Commences

    Construction of the ramp replacement will commence in May 2026.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, please contact us:

Contact Information
Phone 1300 736 533
Email haveyoursay@greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au
Website www.greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au