Tasmania location profile
Forest TAS 7330
Forest is a small rural locality in Tasmania’s far north-west within the Circular Head municipality, close to Smithton and Stanley. It is known for fertile farmland (dairy, beef and cropping) and quiet country living with easy access to beaches and the iconic Nut at Stanley.
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Why families consider Forest
Agricultural community of farming families and tradespeople, with a relaxed, community-focused lifestyle; low-density living, local primary school, and weekend access to fishing, surfing and coastal walks.
Amenities & services
- Local schooling at Forest Primary School
- Everyday shopping in nearby Smithton (Woolworths, specialty stores)
- Medical: Smithton District Hospital & Community Health Centre; Circular Head Medical Centre (Smithton)
- Dining: cafes and seafood in Stanley (e.g., Hursey Seafoods, Stanley Hotel) and eateries in Smithton
- Smithton Library (Libraries Tasmania) – Smithton
Transport & connectivity
- No train services
- Intercity coaches via Smithton (Kinetic/Redline) to Burnie, Devonport and Launceston
- Road access via Bass Highway (A2) and Stanley Highway (B21), with local rural roads
Lifestyle & recreation
- The Nut State Reserve walking track and lookouts (Stanley)
- Godfreys Beach and Stanley foreshore
- Smithton Recreation Ground and local sports clubs
- Circular Head War Memorial Pool (indoor swimming, Smithton)
- Stanley Golf Club and coastal fishing spots
- The Nut State Reserve
- Godfreys Beach Reserve
- West Inlet Conservation Area
- Peggs Beach Conservation Area
- Rocky Cape National Park
- Duck River Foreshore Reserve (Smithton)
Education context
Childcare is available in nearby Smithton (long day care and family day care); limited or none within Forest itself.
- University of Tasmania – Cradle Coast Campus (Burnie)
- University of Tasmania – Newnham Campus (Launceston)