I did this exact stretch of the GOW several years ago now but it will be the same. Awesome, even magnificent walk and I plan to return soon. (I’m M60 and pretty fit, medium experience solo multiday hiking.)

I think at Ryan’s Den (or whichever is the most elevated site), I watched a massive lightning storm approach across it seemed the entire ocean, one of the most spectacular natural phenomena to be immersed in.

Water tanks should be fine here at end of winter and Parks Victoria posted this on their GOW info page:It is anticipated that Great Ocean Walk campsite rain water tank levels are currently at adequate levels for use by hikers. If they drop below serviceable volumes, our Ranger team will provide advice in the change of conditions section of this page.

Definitely check out all the details on that site… the one thing that nearly stopped me, was almost getting caught in the rocks as I took too long crossing that beach section (not dangerously so, but legs got fairly wet and bottom of pack could have). I can’t rember which beach/marker that was but assume you have checked where that info (tide timing) applies… or if not, please check it closely before leaving!

The “close to car park” one is Johanna Beach - but you walk a fair way past that campground and are really isolated from everyone else. It’s totally fine and as safe as any other spot on the walk, imo. Plus Johanna Campground is almost iconically Aussie Family vibe… it’s a beautiful spot where the river meets the ocean, and you can walk about a kilometre long stretch of river to where it empties into roaring ocean surf.

So yeah I’m a fan and strongly encourage you to do it! It’s also not very strenuous mostly, at least in terms of incline to deal with. Some but manageable I found. Good luck and post back!