Bogong High Plains Road Landslip Remediation

Principal: VIDA ROADS (formerly Major Road Projects Victoria)
Value: $82.2 million
Location: Alpine Victoria
Delivery: 2023–2024

Project Overview

In October 2022, a significant active landslip was identified on Bogong High Plains Road between Mount Beauty and Falls Creek, resulting in the closure of a critical alpine transport corridor. The failure - estimated at approximately 70 metres high and 100 metres wide - represented one of the largest landslips experienced on Victoria’s road network in more than 40 years. Following initial stabilisation by the Department of Transport and Planning, Whelans Group was engaged to deliver interim remediation works and ultimately restore safe, two‑lane access to this essential regional and tourism link.

Scope of Works

• Large‑scale geotechnical remediation and earthworks

• Removal of approximately 600,000 tonnes of unstable material

• Drainage reconstruction and stabilisation works

• Temporary traffic corridors and staged access management

• Environmental protection and site rehabilitation

• Permanent infrastructure upgrades supporting long‑term resilience

Delivery Challenges

• Highly active landslip zone within a dynamic alpine environment

• Significant geotechnical complexity and ongoing ground movement

• Environmentally sensitive terrain requiring strict controls

• Programme pressure to restore access ahead of the winter ski season

• Restricted access and weather‑driven constraints

Our Approach

Whelans Group deployed a disciplined, integrated delivery approach combining self‑performed earthworks, in‑house plant capability and structured environmental management. Safe multi‑front construction was maintained through detailed geotechnical monitoring, staged excavation and robust drainage controls. The project was supported by Whelans’ internal haulage capability and experienced project management team, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness within a highly constrained alpine setting. Environmental management plans were embedded across all work fronts, with ongoing monitoring and rehabilitation delivered alongside construction activities.

Outcomes & Results

• Temporary single‑lane access reinstated in April 2023

• Full two‑lane access restored on 27 May 2024, ahead of the ski season

• Delivery of one of Victoria’s largest landslip remediation programs

• Restoration of a critical connection between Mount Beauty, Bogong Village and Falls Creek

• Long‑term stabilisation and resilience improvements to the corridor

• Winner of the Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) Victoria 2025 Earth Awards in the Project Value up to $150 million category

Key Project Metrics

• ~600,000 tonnes of material removed

• Multi‑front delivery within an active landslip zone

• Major alpine corridor reopened within a tightly constrained program

Related Capabilities

• Civil Construction & Earthworks

• Environmental Management

• Heavy Haulage

• Traffic Management

Winner of the Civil Contractors Federation Victoria 2025 Earth Awards in the Project Value up to $150 million category