New Fee for Twelve Apostles Visitors

0:00On March 8th, here's the latest out of Sydney. The Victorian government is set to announce a new entry fee for tourists visiting the 12 apostles along the Great Ocean Road. This comes with the opening of a $126 million visitor experience center at the end of 2026. Only seven of the original 12 limestone stacks remain today due to natural erosion. The exact fee amount has not been decided yet. It will come after talks with stakeholders. Local residents and members of the Eastern Mar indigenous community will get in free. A booking system will also launch to handle crowds and secure parking spots during busy times. Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos says the charge is fair for a world-class site drawing over 2 million visitors a year. The Great Ocean Road sees more than 6 million people annually. He wants the money to stay local for upgrades like better beach access and facility improvements. Local groups like the Carr and Gammai Shire Council and Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Board

1:01pushed for this user-pays approach back in September. They suggested a fee between $10 and $20 to protect the environment and manage crowds. Similar fees already existed at other top Australian spots, including Uluru, Kata, Tejuda, National Park, Koshisko National Park, and Wineglass Bay. Look out. Officials aim to keep the 12 apostles thriving for future generations. This episode is supported by our sponsor, C Details in the Description. If sleep podcasts are your thing, this is your pillow, bill for comfort and calm, s-o-l-i-soli-pillow.com