Book Ahead and Pay: New Rules for Visiting the Twelve Apostles
Tourists visiting the Twelve Apostles will soon need to book ahead and pay an entry fee to see the iconic limestone rock stacks. The change is part of a plan to manage tourism in the area and protect the site for future generations.
Visitors to one of Australia's most iconic natural attractions will soon need to book ahead and pay an entry fee to see the Twelve Apostles. The change is part of a new plan to manage tourism in the area and protect the site for future generations.
New Visitor Centre and Booking System
The Victorian government has announced that from October 16, tourists will need to book ahead to enter a newly constructed $126 million visitor centre and see the Twelve Apostles. The centre is part of a plan to support sustainable tourism along Victoria's south-west coastline.
Acting Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Catherine King said the new visitor centre would have a positive impact on the local economy. "The redevelopment is already playing an important part in the local economy and will encourage even more visitors to spend time in the region, boosting local jobs and businesses," Ms King said.
Concerns from Local Residents
However, not everyone is happy with the changes. The Port Campbell Community Group has expressed concerns about the entry fee, with secretary Marion Manifold saying, "we believe public land should not be commercialised and should remain in public hands".
Ms Manifold also questioned how the funds collected from the entry fees would be used. "If funds are required we prefer an airport tax on visitors into Australia," she said. "It's a good aim but in the past we believe very little money has come back to the Port Campbell national park and believe this is not likely to change."
The group is also worried about the impact of increased visitation on the local area, including the effect on infrastructure such as water, sewerage systems, and parking. "The crowds, traffic congestion and bus parking also has a wider impact on Great Ocean Road towns and small communities," Ms Manifold said. "The government's aim to increase numbers at the 12 Apostles to 6 million will compound any current issues. No data has been provided to show how this is sustainable and what the effects it may have on the environment."