The Great Ocean Road Sign, also known as the Memorial Arch, is a iconic landmark along the coastline of Victoria, Australia. Located at Eastern View, this timber log archway marks the start of one of the world’s most beautiful drives, passing by beaches, rock stacks and scenery.
Whether you’re embarking on a Great Ocean Road trip or looking for an experience along the stretch of road that goes through isolated towns and seaside villages, this guide has all the info you need about the Great Ocean Road Sign.
Great Ocean Road Sign Located
Memorial Arch at Eastern View
Address: Great Ocean Road, Eastern View, Victoria, Australia
GPS: -38.4573, 144.0401
The current arch is a replica of the original sign in honour of the soldiers of the 10th Field Company Engineers who built the Great Ocean Road, one of the biggest war memorials in the world.
How to Get to the Memorial Arch
From Melbourne (1.5–2 hours)
- Take the M1 towards Geelong.
- Follow the Great Ocean Road (B100) past Torquay Beach, Bells Beach, Anglesea River.
- Continue to Aireys Inlet and the timber archway at Eastern View.
From Apollo Bay (1.5 hours)
- Head east on the Great Ocean Road past Cape Patton and Lorne Beach.
- The Great Ocean Road Sign is before Fairhaven and Anglesea Golf Club.
From Port Campbell (2 hours)
- Drive past the Port Campbell Visitor Information Centre, Port of Apollo Bay, Loch Ard Gorge.
- Stop at Cape Otway for 360 degree views before the sign.
Many people who book Great Ocean Road Melbourne tours make this their first stop before heading towards the Twelve Apostles.
The History Sign
The Great Ocean Road was built to honour Australian soldiers who served in World War I. The original toll gates were erected at Eastern View in 1939 and were removed in 1945. The original toll was taken off once the road was opened to the public making it an all inclusive experience for all visitors.
Over the years the sign has been rebuilt many times. The 50th anniversary saw the addition of historical plaques and the 75th anniversary celebrated its honourary engineers. The 100th anniversary is going to be a big community event to celebrate the year of construction starting.
One of the key people involved in the building of the road was W.T. McConnack an honourary engineer who helped transform the wild south-west coast into one of Australia’s most famous surf beaches and national parks.
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise & Sunset – For breathtaking views and fewer people.
Weekdays – Avoid peak road sign stock pictures times.
Spring & Autumn – Enjoy the stunning coastline and pristine beaches in mild weather.
What to Do
Take Ocean Road Sign Videos & Photos – Get the iconic landmark at its best.
Explore National Parks – Visit Port Campbell National Park home to the giant sea stacks of the Twelve Apostles.
Visit Famous Surf Beaches – Stop by Torquay Beach, Bells Beach and Apollo Bay Town – Great Ocean Road.
Great Ocean Road restaurants – Enjoy fresh seafood at Anchors Port and Port Fairy’s beachside views.
Walk the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures – Get aerial views of the coastal scenery in the Great Otway National Park.
Spot Wildlife – Visit Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve to see kangaroos near the kangaroo crossing sign.
If you’re doing a 12 Apostles day tour this stop is a must see part of the journey to get a sense of the coastal scenerybefore you head to see the limestone stacks.
Other Must-See Stops
London Bridge – A natural icon along the coastline.
Loch Ard Gorge – Offshore stacks and massive rock stacks.
Apostles Helicopter Tours – Get above the stacks.
Beach Culture Stops – Famous surf beaches and Australia’s most famous surf beaches.
Road Map-Australia & Access Road Information – Check the maps for alternative access roads to secret spots.
If you’re doing a 12 Apostles tour the Great Ocean Road Sign is a must see before you head to the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and the Great Otway National Park.
Final Thoughts
The Great Ocean Road Sign at Eastern View is more than just an awesome sign for photography stock—it’s a century of history, stunning views, and coastal scenery along Australia’s beautiful coast.
Whether you’re here for the 50 minute drive to Port Campbell or want to experience the whole shebang, don’t miss out to see this real piece of Australian history come to life!
FAQ
Why is the Great Ocean Road Sign important?
The Great Ocean Road Sign, also known as the Memorial Arch, marks the entrance to the Great Ocean Road and is a tribute to the soldiers who built it. It’s one of the biggest war memorials in the world and a famous landmark for visitors.
Can I stop at the Great Ocean Road Sign?
Yes, there’s a small car park near the Memorial Arch, so you can stop, take photos and read about the history of the Great Ocean Road.
What else is near the Great Ocean Road Sign?
Nearby attractions include Aireys Inlet, Great Otway National Park, Lorne Beach, and Anglesea Golf Club. If you’re on a 12 Apostles tour, the sign is just the start of your coastal adventure.
Is the Great Ocean Road Sign part of guided tours?
Yes, many Great Ocean Road Melbourne tours and Twelve Apostles tours include a stop at the Memorial Arch before going to Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and the 12 Apostles.
When was the Great Ocean Road Sign built?
The first Memorial Arch was built in 1939, but the sign has been rebuilt a few times. The current arch is a modern version of the original sign, celebrating the history of the Great Ocean Road.
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