Is Forbes worth visiting?

Yes, it is a historic town with a beautiful lake and rich bushranger history.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes about 4.5 hours.

No direct train; you must use a combination of bus and rail.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and Autumn offer the best weather for outdoor activities.

Yes, the entire route is on sealed, well-maintained roads.

Yarrawonga

Forbes

Bus Driving

Yarrawonga to Forbes

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Yarrawonga to Forbes covers approximately 390 kilometers, primarily along the Newell Highway. Driving is the most practical option, taking about 4.5 hours through the heart of the New South Wales wheat belt. Forbes is known for its historic buildings and the beautiful Lake Forbes. While public transport is limited, it is possible to reach Forbes via a combination of bus and train services. This route is relatively flat and easy to navigate.

Total Distance: 390 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking approximately 4.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups.

Compare Yarrawonga to Forbes Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	4 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price	75-130 AUD	65-90 AUD fuel cost
Operator	NSW TrainLink	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Albury, then train/bus to Forbes.	Newell Highway (A39) north directly to Forbes.
Tip	Book your journey through the NSW TrainLink website.	The Newell Highway is a major freight route; watch for heavy trucks.

Travel Tips

Check Highway Alerts
Monitor Live Traffic NSW for any road closures or delays on the Newell Highway.
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
Fuel
Fill up in larger towns to ensure you have enough fuel.
Maps
Download offline maps as reception can be spotty in rural areas.
Dining
Forbes has some great local cafes and pubs to enjoy a meal.

Safety Tips

Overtaking
Only overtake on the Newell Highway when it is safe and you have clear visibility.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long drive.
Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency
Keep a first aid kit and water in your vehicle at all times.