Sinkhole shuts Victoria's Great Alpine Road

Experts suspect an old mineshaft caused the sinkhole as assessments begin to plan repairs and ensure road safety.

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A sinkhole on Victoria's Great Alpine Road has prompted the road's closure in both directions, causing significant disruption. Emergency services identified the sinkhole near Jackass Gully, between Harrietville and Hotham Heights, on Saturday morning.

Authorities believe the sinkhole may have been caused by an old, disused mineshaft under the road. Geo-technical experts and the Department of Transport are assessing the damage to determine the extent of the issue and develop a repair strategy.

Photo: Department of Transport

Chris Brockwell, State Emergency Service (SES) regional agency commander, said emergency services are prioritising safety. "We believe it’s probably a disused mineshaft, but further assessments are underway," he said.

The closure limits access to Hotham Heights, with routes now available only via Dargo or Omeo. Despite the disruption, businesses in Hotham and Dinner Plain remain operational.

"The road closure is necessary to keep everyone safe," said Mount Hotham Chamber of Commerce president Steve Belli. "Hotham and Dinner Plain are still open for business; access is just restricted from the Harrietville side."

School impacted

The Great Alpine School at Dinner Plain has also been affected. Its campus has been closed indefinitely as staff members, who live near Bright, cannot reach the school. Students are reported safe and under teacher supervision.

Authorities are working on a solution, but the road is expected to remain closed for some time.