Forrest

Overview

Forrest is located 30 kilometress south east of Colac on the major tourist route connecting the Princes Highway with the Great Ocean Road.  Designated the northern entrance to the Great Otway National Park, Forrest has undergone a transition from a logging district to eco-tourism and is now home to a large network of mountain bike trails.  

Consisting of a pub, general store and 2 guesthouses, Forrest is the gateway to the Otway Ranges. The West Barwon river flows through the township and it is near the West Barwon reservoir, which services Geelong.

* Hero image by Stuart Milligan

History

The railway to the town was opened in 1891 and closed in 1957, as a branch line from Birregurra. It serviced the townships of Deans Marsh, Maroon, Barwon Downs, Yaugher and Forrest. At Forrest numerous tramways ran off into the nearby bush. These lines were used to bring the freshly cut timber to the rail head, and the associated sawmills of which there were four in Forrest and nearby Yaugher. All of these mills are now closed.

Originally called Yaugher, the name was changed to Forrest when the township was established. The Post Office opened as Yaugher on 27 July 1891 and was renamed Forrest a few weeks later on 15 October 1891.

The town football team was established in 1891, and is still going strong to this day, competing in the Colac & District Football League.

Places of interest

Local pub
Forrest Tiger Rail Trail
Forrest Mountain Bike tracks
Lake Elizabeth

Accommodation

Forrest offers a small select number of bed & breakfast accommodation, cottages and two guesthouses. For information on local accommodation or a broader range of lodgings close by please contact:

Colac Visitor Information Centre
Address: Cnr Murray & Queen St, Colac VIC 3250
Phone: 03 5231 3730
Fax: 03 5232 2764
Email: colacvic@colacotway.vic.gov.au

or

Great Ocean Road Visitor Information Centre
Address: 100 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233
Phone: 03 5237 6529
Fax: 03 5237 6194
Website: www.visitapollobay.com

Back to Regional Tour list