South East Forest

South East Forest National Park is a large and ecologically significant park on the far south coast of New South Wales, located in the ranges between Bega and Eden. Covering approximately 91,265 hectares, the park protects extensive areas of tall wet sclerophyll forest, warm temperate rainforest, and dry sclerophyll woodland on the far south coast escarpment and ranges. The park contains some of the finest old-growth wet sclerophyll forest and the most extensive areas of cool-temperate rainforest in New South Wales. The far south coast forests are recognised as among the most biologically significant in Australia.

South East Forest National Park supports exceptional wildlife of the far south coast. The long-footed potoroo, one of Australia's rarest small mammals, has its stronghold in this park. The spotted quoll is present. Yellow-bellied gliders and greater gliders inhabit old-growth trees. The powerful owl and masked owl hunt the forest. The platypus occurs in permanent streams. The koala is present. The south-east forest fauna includes many species of conservation concern dependent on old-growth forest.

Tall wet sclerophyll forest dominated by brown barrel, blue gum, and alpine ash forms spectacular forest on the moist slopes, with trees exceeding 60 metres in height. Warm temperate rainforest with coachwood and sassafras fills the sheltered gullies and cooler aspects. The cool temperate rainforest with pinkwood and black oliveberry is the rarest community. Dry sclerophyll forest and heath on the exposed ridges contrast with the lush wet forest.

The park occupies the southern NSW coastal ranges and escarpment, underlain by Silurian and Devonian granite and metamorphic rocks of the Lachlan Fold Belt. The elevated terrain intercepts moist southerly airflows, creating the high rainfall that supports the tall wet forest.

Cool temperate climate with high rainfall. Annual rainfall approximately 900 to 1,400 millimetres. Cool summers, cold winters with occasional snow. The moist conditions maintain the outstanding wet forest communities.

The Thaua (far south coast Yuin) people are the traditional custodians of the far south coast ranges. The forest provided diverse resources. European timber operations logged the far south coast forests from the late 19th century, with controversy over old-growth logging continuing until the late 20th century.

South East Forest National Park was gazetted in 1994 following significant community campaigns to protect the old-growth forests. The park's establishment preserved the most significant remaining old-growth forest on the far south coast.

Walking through the tall old-growth forest, including some of the largest trees in NSW, is the primary attraction. Birdwatching for forest-dependent species is excellent. Long-footed potoroo spotting at night is possible with patience. The Tantawangalo and Coolangubra forest areas provide access to outstanding tall forest.

Camping areas are provided at several locations. Access is via roads from Bega and Eden. Those communities provide visitor services. The park is approximately 430 kilometres south of Sydney. A national parks pass applies.

The long-footed potoroo is the primary conservation priority, with habitat management focused on maintaining old-growth forest structure and undertaking predator control. Managing the tall old-growth forest for carbon storage and biodiversity is a long-term objective. Invasive weed control is ongoing.