The story of the road…Victoria’s Great Ocean Road celebrates 100 years…

Great Ocean Road outside Lorne

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism is embarking on a celebration to mark 100 years since construction began on the iconic Great Ocean Road. 

‘The Story of the Road’ campaign features a series of curated events including gala screenings of the new documentary ‘The Story of the Road’, pop-up cinemas, public art installations and augmented reality experiences from Torquay to Apollo Bay.

The event celebrates the Great Ocean Road’s rich history as well as its role today as a global destination for both tourists and locals alike, connecting us with one of the most iconic and beautiful coastlines in Australia and standing as the largest war memorial in the world.

DOCUMENTARY FILM

Workers on the road more than 100 years ago

Clothesline Content filmmakers Jacqueline Tonks and Claire Falkiner bring to life ‘The Story of the Road’, exploring the rich history of this important stretch of coastline and uncovering the harsh reality of life for those constructing the road. 

With untold stories of returned ex-servicemen and civilians who built the road, Tonks and Falkiner take us on a journey that explores the industry, community and surf culture that makes the Great Ocean Road what it is today, uncovering truths and discovering some of the stories that were once thought lost. 

GALA SCREENINGS

With original terrazzo floors, geometrical ceiling lines and 1930’s fixtures, The Lorne Theatre together with Apollo Bay Mechanics Hall will house the first screenings of ‘The Story of the Road’ from 18 September, 2019. 

Immersive experiences are on offer which will see cinema goers transported back to the time when the road first came to be, complete with a 1920’s inspired brew from Prickly Moses, recreation of the iconic French 75 cocktail from Great Ocean Road Gin and appearances from Sugarfoot Ramblers Swing Band. 

Tickets available at visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/iam100

POP UP CINEMAS

Located in Torquay, Angelsea, Lorne, Wye River and Apollo Bay, the pop up cinema experiences transition visitors from the beautiful coastal backdrop into art deco inspired spaces set within modern shipping containers that house a series of screenings for 5-12 visitors at a time uncovering the untold stories of the road from beginnings to current day.

Open daily from Friday 20 September to Sunday 6 October, 2019,the free 10 minute screenings will feature local stories of the road, connecting visitors with the surroundings and celebrating the significance of each destination. 

Registration available at visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/iam100

CURATED ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY PROJECT

Bespoke industrial designed circular seats combining artistic expression and Augmented Reality experiences will dot the coastline from Torquay to Apollo Bay, each providing a space where people can sit down, slow down and immerse themselves in the environment, and perhaps learn a little more about their surrounding space.

The circular seat design holds significance to the nature of the region itself, representing the cyclical nature that sees many return to the region for enjoyment, lifestyle, growth or to simply take it all in.

For more information or tickets to events and experiences visit visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/iam100