Great Ocean Road

Though you may not be in the mood for a history lesson, I’m going to give you one anyway because this is bloody interesting and besides, it may be something you did not know.

The Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile stretch of road along the south-eastern coast of Australia between the Victorian cities of Torquay (yes, Helen was excited to visit!) and Warrnambool. Completed in 1932, it stands as the world’s largest war memorial in recognition of every serviceman who gave his life fighting in the Great War of 1914-1918. It may surprise you to know that out of 330,000 Australian men who volunteered to fight in Europe, Turkey and the Middle East, 60,000 were killed and 160,000 were injured. It was a casualty rate of 64% – higher than all other nations engaged in fighting – a huge toll. Of those who did return, some were re-employed in their pre-war jobs, while others were employed in government subsidised settler-farms. Those who perhaps had less of a choice were offered employment in building what is now known as one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world. Approximately three thousand men ended up constructing the road by hand using explosives, picks and shovels, wheel barrows, and some small machinery. As you can imagine, the project was often perilous and claimed a number of lives.

Despite existing as an impressively grand 151-mile monument of historical importance, the road is probably most famous for such prominent landmarks as the Twelve Apostles and London Arch, significant natural limestone and sandstone rock formations that can only be described as epic.

It was impressive to read how Australia looked after its veterans on returning home from the First World War. Not only did they recognise their efforts in battle, they provided the means upon returning home which enabled them to continue a dignified existence as wage earners contributing to society. Considering the era in which we live and the way things naturally evolve and progress over time, it is disgraceful that there is not more provision for our own battle-weary soldiers who come home in need of government help.