About the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority
The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is the dedicated Victorian Government entity entrusted with the care, protection and sustainable management of one of Australia’s most breathtaking and culturally significant coastal regions. Established under the Great Ocean Road and Environs Protection Act 2020, GORCAPA was created to address the complex and fragmented management of the coastline and ensure the long-term conservation of this iconic landscape.
By November 2025, GORCAPA will be responsible for managing more than 170,000 hectares of coastal reserves, National Parks, Marine Sanctuaries and foreshores stretching along 355 kilometres of stunning coastline. This includes high-profile sites such as the Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Precinct and Cape Otway Lightstation, as well as local ports, community reserves and critical marine environments.
At the heart of its work is a commitment to protect the unique environmental, cultural, heritage and community values of the region. GORCAPA partners deeply with Traditional Owners, local communities and stakeholders to integrate cultural knowledge, ensure environmental stewardship, support sustainable visitation and build lasting benefits for regional economies and generations to come.
Accommodation Services Team
Our ten self-managed coastal Caravan Parks and Cape Otway Lightstation generate the majority of GORCAPA’s revenue. We are the single largest accommodation provider on the Great Ocean Road with over 800,000 visitor nights annually. Situated adjacent to some of the most spectacular beaches on the coast, we offer a range of accommodation options for families, tourists, students and visitors.
Purpose of the position
The Tour Guide position is responsible for delivering consistent and high-quality tours through visitor engagement, conducting enjoyable, educational and valuable experiences for all guests at Cape Otway Lightstation.
Key responsibilities of this position include:
The Tour Guide is responsible for follow the duties and timings as described in the site Guide Schedule which incorporates roles such as guiding in the tower, presenting set history talks and coordinating group tours.
- Deliver consistent and high-quality tours and engagement, focusing on enriching the visitor experience through meeting and exceeding the expectation of the visitor.
- Adhere to opening and closing procedures of site facilities.
- Ensure that all historic displays and interpretative sites are professionally and clearly presented at all times.
- Observe and implement safe practices whilst undertaking tour guiding ensuring visitor safety.
- Identify potential risks and report any hazards, accidents, incidents or near misses to Management.
- Be flexible and have an ability to alter presentations as the situation requires to meet various group requirements.
- Meet, greet and engage all visitors across the Lightstation site.
- Monitor the safe entry and exit of all visitors to the Lantern Room and balcony.
- Advise visitors of Lantern Room operating procedures and safety warnings as required.
- Provide an informative commentary to all visitors in the Lantern Room on the workings of the Lighthouse and the history of the Lightstation and surrounding region.
- Keep the Lighthouse clean and tidy by following routine cleaning schedule.
- Comply with the Authority’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies and procedures and understanding of emergency procedures within the Lightstation grounds.
- Ensure site security is maintained and report any suspicious activities to Management.
- Maintain a friendly, positive, professional and cooperative manner at all times, when interacting with the public and working relationships with other members of staff.
- Provide feedback and suggestions to Management on visitor experiences and improvements.
- Update and maintain knowledge of the Lightstation history and relevant topics of interest along with public site activities through training sessions and staff outings as required.
- Support other staff with their duties in relation to the operation of the Lightstation as directed.
Qualifications and experience
- Tertiary qualification in Tourism, Hospitality or similar field of study.
- Demonstrated experience in the tourism or hospitality sector as a Tour Guide.
- Current First Aid Certificate (desirable).
Knowledge and skills:
- Ability to communicate with people across a broad range of backgrounds in a friendly and approachable manner.
- A proactive approach to problem solving.
- Good time management and organisational skills.
- Ability to be flexible at work and be part of a highly committed and vibrant team.
Applications require:
- A current resume
- Cover Letter (desirable)
Terms and conditions of employment:
Appointment to this position is subject to the successful applicant being able to:
- Provide a National Police Check Certificate.
- Obtain a Working with Children Certificate.
- Provide evidence of Australian Work Rights.
- Hold a current Australian Driver’s License.
Everyone is welcome at the Authority.
Here at the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority we are committed to creating a workforce that is diverse and is inclusive of all. We value and embrace the various experiences and perspectives people may have, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, cultural background, disability, or sexual orientation.