Victoria location profile
Forrest VIC 3236
Forrest is a small, nature-focused township in the Otway Ranges known for its mountain bike trails, rainforest walks, and relaxed rural charm. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts and weekend visitors while maintaining a close-knit community feel.
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Why families consider Forrest
A mix of long-time locals, tree-changers, and hospitality/tourism workers, with a lifestyle centred on outdoor recreation and quiet village living. Weekends bring visitors for biking, hiking, and brewery/café culture.
Amenities & services
- Forrest Brewing Company (brewery/restaurant)
- General store and café
- Caravan park and camping facilities
- Public hall and community spaces
- Nearest supermarkets, GP clinics and hospital services in Colac (~30km)
- Colac Library (Colac Otway Libraries) – Colac
- Apollo Bay Library – Apollo Bay
Transport & connectivity
- Nearest train: Colac Station (V/Line Warrnambool line)
- V/Line coach Colac–Apollo Bay via Forrest (limited services)
- Forrest–Apollo Bay Rd (C119), Birregurra–Forrest Rd (C119), Forrest–Beech Forest Rd (C159)
Lifestyle & recreation
- Forrest Mountain Bike Trails (Yaugher and Southern trail networks)
- Lake Elizabeth walking tracks and platypus viewing
- Forrest Recreation Reserve (oval, tennis courts)
- Fishing and kayaking on Barwon River/West Barwon Reservoir
- Great Otway National Park
- Lake Elizabeth
- West Barwon Reservoir
- Yaugher Forest
- Forrest Recreation Reserve
- Barwon River Reserve
Education context
No childcare services in-town; families typically use options in Colac or Birregurra (about 25–30 minutes by car).
- Deakin University – Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Deakin University – Warrnambool
- South West TAFE – Colac (for vocational pathways)