The rammed earth walls at the Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment were completed this quarter, marking a major milestone for the project and one celebrated by the project team and specialist rammed earth contractor Earth Structures Group.
Constructing rammed earth at this scale, and with complex wall geometries, presents significant technical challenges. Careful sequencing and coordination are required to manage formwork, layering consistency and quality control, ensuring the finished product maintains its structural integrity while preserving the material’s natural character.
The rammed earth walls will become one of the project’s most distinctive architectural features. Formed using locally sourced aggregates, compacted in layers and stabilised, the walls create a durable and enduring façade. The construction process reconstitutes the earth into architectural form, with careful control of mix design, compaction and curing to achieve both structural performance and aesthetic intent.
The design by Grimshaw Architects draws directly from the surrounding landscape. The iconic cliffs of the Twelve Apostles are sedimentary formations, created over millions of years through the compaction of seabed deposits. The rammed earth walls respond to this geology not by replicating it, but by expressing its layered character in built form. The result is a façade that feels intrinsically connected to the coastline.
“The rammed earth walls are one of the defining features of this project, so reaching this milestone is a proud moment for the team. Seeing them come to life is a strong reflection of the collaboration, care and craftsmanship involved in achieving Grimshaw’s design vision and our client’s aspirations for the walls.” Project Manager, Cameron Tudor.
“Rammed earth was chosen for its strong connection to Country and Place. Its texture and warmth create a tactile experience that welcomes and grounds, encouraging a moment of pause as visitors move through the building from grasslands to coastal attractions”. Associate Principal of Grimshaw Architects, Harriet Oswald.
“I think this will be one of our most iconic buildings. It has a beautiful and humble design, with the use of materials here echoing the structure of the cliffs and the rock stacks”. Managing Director of Earth Structures, Rick Lindsay.
The Kane project team is proud to be helping bring this iconic design to life. With the rammed earth walls complete, the site continues to take shape as internal works and landscaping progress on this significant piece of Victorian tourism infrastructure.
The Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment is funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments through the Geelong City Deal.
The Visitor Experience Centre is being delivered by Development Victoria with Kane Constructions as the head contractor and will be managed by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.
The precinct is being delivered in cooperation with the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation.
