The Twelve Apostles is a collection magnificent rock stacks that rise up majestically from the Southern Ocean on Victoria's dramatic coastline, in Australia. Situated in the Port Campbell National Park, the massive limestone structures are at around 70 metres high. Created by constant erosion of the limestone cliffs of the mainland beginning 10–20 million years ago, the stormy Southern Ocean and blasting winds gradually eroded the softer limestone, forming caves in the cliffs.
Now because of this erosion there are fewer than ten remaining. Currently there are eight apostles left, the ninth one of the stacks collapsed dramatically in July 2005. The rate of erosion at the base of the limestone pillars is approximately two centimeters per year. Due to wave action eroding the cliff face existing headlands are expected to become new limestone stacks in the future. Until 1922, the site was known as the Sow and Piglets, after which it was renamed to The Apostles for tourism purposes. The formation eventually became known as the Twelve Apostles, despite only ever having nine stacks. The name remains significant and spectacular especially in the Australian tourism industry.
The remarkable underwater structures provide a complex foundation for magnificent habitats including kelp forests and colourful sponge gardens. Many animals prosper both above and below the water including seabirds, seals, lobsters, reef fish and sea spiders. While anytime of the day provides a great spectacle, sunrise and sunset are particularly impressive for the blazing hues created. Patient visitors after dark or in the early morning may see Little Penguins which nest in caves below the Twelve Apostles. The 12 Apostles are located 275 kilometres west of Melbourne, approximately a four-hour drive along the Great Ocean Road.
A.I.
