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Foster

Foster

Foster is a vibrant country town in South Gippsland, surrounded by rolling green hills, fertile farmland and beautiful countryside. Known for its welcoming community, local arts and food scene, Foster is a popular gateway to Wilsons Promontory and the wider Prom Coast.

  • 2 hr 20 from Melbourne
  • 50 min to Tidal River
  • Services, markets, Prom gateway

Nestled amongst the lush green hills of South Gippsland, Foster is a charming country town and the gateway to some of Victoria's most spectacular natural attractions. Just around 30 minutes from Wilsons Promontory National Park and close to Corner Inlet, Shallow Inlet, Sandy Point and Waratah Bay, Foster is perfectly positioned for exploring the coast and countryside of Prom Country. The town itself has a relaxed country atmosphere, with a vibrant arts community, cafés, boutique shops and local produce, all surrounded by beautiful rolling farmland and distant views towards Wilsons Promontory.

Life at Foster

Foster offers the perfect balance between a peaceful country lifestyle and the convenience of being the main service town for the surrounding region. The town centre has a good selection of cafés, bakeries, shops and local businesses, while the Great Southern Rail Trail passes through Foster, providing a scenic way to explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bicycle. Foster also has a fascinating history, beginning as a gold-mining settlement in the 1870s before developing into an important centre for dairy farming and the surrounding rural communities. The Foster Museum and Stockyard Gallery provide an insight into the area's history and strong artistic character. For spectacular scenery, the nearby Foster North Lookout offers sweeping views across Corner Inlet towards the peaks of Wilsons Promontory. With Wilsons Prom, beautiful beaches, wineries, farms and quiet country roads all close by, Foster is an ideal base for discovering the very best of South Gippsland.

Things to do in Foster

  • Explore Foster's town centreWander through the cafés, boutique shops, galleries and local produce stores in the heart of town.
  • Visit the Foster Farmers' MarketHeld regularly throughout the year, the market showcases fresh produce, local food, crafts and handmade goods.
  • Walk or cycle the Great Southern Rail TrailFoster is a key stop on the trail, offering scenic rides and walks through rolling farmland and native bush.
  • Enjoy Foster's parks and reservesRelax in the town's gardens, playgrounds and picnic areas, including spots along Stockyard Creek.
  • Visit local wineries and farm gatesThe surrounding district is known for cool-climate wines, cheese and fresh South Gippsland produce.
  • Explore Mount Best and nearby scenic drivesTake in panoramic views across green hills, farmland and towards Wilsons Promontory.
  • Use Foster as a gateway to Wilsons PromontoryFoster is the last major town before the Prom, making it an ideal base for visiting beaches, walking trails and wildlife areas.
  • Visit nearby beaches and waterwaysSandy Point, Waratah Bay, Shallow Inlet and Port Franklin are all within easy driving distance.
  • Enjoy fishing and boatingThe nearby coast and estuaries offer excellent fishing, boating and water activities.
  • Attend local events and festivalsFoster hosts markets, community events and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

Close to Foster

Beaches, walks and good food within a short drive.

Open on the map

Alison Lester Gallery

15 min Fish Creek main street

Prints, books and cards from the much-loved children's author and illustrator, in an old shopfront in Fish Creek.

Fish Creek Hotel

15 min Art Deco pub, 1939

The Art Deco pub with the big fish on the roof. Counter meals, a beer garden and a good spot to finish a rail trail ride.

Agnes Falls

20 min Short walk from car park

One of the highest single-span waterfalls in Victoria, at its best after winter rain. A quick detour from Toora.

Meeniyan food strip

20 min Cafés, wine bar, galleries

A short main street with a big reputation for food, local wine and live music at the town hall.

Shallow Inlet

25 min Kite surfing, birdlife

A tidal inlet behind Sandy Point with dunes, sandbars and flat water. Popular for kite surfing and bird watching.