Sand Road works to start following permit approval
7th November 2025
Campers and locals can expect improved conditions on Sand Road, Glenaire, with Colac Otway Shire Council receiving a Cultural Heritage Permit for road maintenance works to occur.
Council is in the process of engaging a contractor to repair and rebuild the road using crushed rock and gravel, as per the conditions of the permit.
Works will start within weeks, depending on contractor availability and weather.
Sand Road is an unsealed road that services the Glenaire community and the Aire River campgrounds. The condition of the road can be poor during wet weather.
Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation has approved a Cultural Heritage Permit for the works. A permit was necessary due to the presence of cultural heritage sites underneath the road.
Infrastructure and Environment General Manager Doug McNeill said council was committed to ensuring Sand Road had a safe and reliable surface, while protecting cultural sites.
“Sand Road is an important connection for locals, campers, and visitors to Aire River and the Great Ocean Walk, and these works will make travel safer and more reliable,” Mr McNeill said.
“We’ve worked closely with Eastern Maar to make sure this work protects cultural heritage while improving access to some of Colac Otway’s most beautiful places,” he said.
The permit allows surface improvements without disturbing significant heritage features.
Following the repairs, Council will continue working with Eastern Maar to develop an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Land Management Agreement for Sand Road.
“The Land Management Agreement will give us a clear, long-term plan for looking after Sand Road,” Mr McNeill said.
“It means future maintenance can happen more smoothly, while protecting cultural heritage and respecting the values of Traditional Owners,” he said.
Council will keep the community updated as works progress. We appreciate the community’s patience during this process.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400