Is there a train to Forster?

No, Forster does not have a railway station; the nearest station is in Taree.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

No, this route does not involve any toll roads.

What is the best road?

The Oxley Highway combined with Bucketts Way is the most direct and scenic route.

There are no commercial flights between Coonabarabran and Forster.

Coonabarabran

Forster

Driving

Coonabarabran to Forster

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

The journey from Coonabarabran to Forster spans approximately 380 kilometers, primarily utilizing the Oxley Highway and Bucketts Way. You will traverse the Great Dividing Range, descending from the Warrumbungle region toward the Mid North Coast. The drive typically takes 4 hours and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This route is favored for its transition from rugged volcanic landscapes to lush coastal greenery. There is no direct rail service, making private vehicle travel the most practical option.

Total Distance: 380 km driving distance; 290 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the Oxley Highway and Bucketts Way is the fastest route, taking roughly 4.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method given the lack of direct public transport.

Compare Coonabarabran to Forster Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

4 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

60-80 AUD in fuel

Operator

N/A

Route

Oxley Highway (B56) to Gloucester, then Bucketts Way (B84) to Forster.

Watch for heavy logging trucks on the winding sections of Bucketts Way.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Refuel in Gunnedah or Tamworth as service stations become sparse on the mountain passes.
Road Conditions
Check Live Traffic NSW for updates on roadworks along the Oxley Highway.
Wildlife
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk to minimize the risk of kangaroo collisions.
Packing
Bring layers as temperatures drop significantly when crossing the Great Dividing Range.
Navigation
Download offline maps as mobile reception is intermittent between Gloucester and the coast.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness on winding roads.
Weather Awareness
Fog is common in the mountain valleys; use low-beam headlights during early morning travel.
Emergency Prep
Carry a physical road atlas and a basic first-aid kit in your vehicle.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your brakes are in top condition for the steep descent from the plateau.