Geeveston Town Hall Visitor Centre

Part museum, part gift shop and part tourist information centre, the Geeveston Town Hall Visitor Centre, formerly known as the Geeveston Forest and Heritage Centre, offers insights into the region’s rich forestry history and ongoing conservation efforts.

Known for its deep connection to timber industries and logging, Geeveston was once one of Tasmania’s primary timber towns. Today, the centre serves as a gateway to understanding the historical, economic and environmental importance of forests in the Huon Valley.

Geeveston’s timber heritage dates back to the early 1800s, when European settlers recognised the economic potential of the region’s dense forests. Timber became a key resource and sawmills sprang up to support local industry. The centre preserves this history, highlighting both traditional logging practices and the evolution of sustainable forestry. Timber harvesting was, for generations, a major livelihood in Geeveston, and the centre provides historical context to the town’s development. The exhibits are also designed to reflect Tasmania’s shift from resource extraction towards environmental conservation and forest stewardship.

What to see

While many people visit to pick up some brochures or to browse the gift shop, it is worth taking the time to look at some of the exhibits on display.

The centre includes the Vin Smith Collection, a collection of informative displays on forestry and conservation. The exhibits include historical tools and machinery used in logging, which provide a hands-on sense of the industry’s early years. Models and displays illustrate the various stages of timber production, from felling to milling. There are also exhibits focused on the ecological aspects of Tasmania’s forests, covering native species, forest ecosystems and the impact of human activity.

One of the highlights is the collection of timber work created by local artists. These sculptures depict local figures and scenes from Geeveston’s past and are carved directly from timber, reflecting the material’s importance to the town’s heritage. The centre also includes information on modern forestry practices and Tasmania’s forest management policies, offering insight into current debates around conservation and industry.

Visiting the Geeveston Town Hall Visitor Centre

The visitor centre is on Church Street in the centre of Geeveston. The centre is open daily and visitor facilities include a gift shop that sells souvenirs and local crafts.

15 Church Street, Geeveston TAS 7116
Website www.geevestontownhall.com.au
Admission free
Open 10am–4pm daily