The area is rich farmland, much of which has been reclaimed from swamp. Many bones of animals from more than 40,000 years ago have been found on farmland drained around Mella. These include remains of a giant wombat, a  giant kangaroo and marsupial rhinoceros. It’s economy is based on dairy farming, timber and fishing. With rivers winding through spectacular Beech forests and undulating farmlands.
 

There is plenty for the visitor including the ten forestry reserves, ranging from rainforests to blackwood swamps and giant eucalypt forests. The Forestry Commission (Corner of Nelson and Smith Streets) can provide maps and route information, with the most rewarding reserves being Julius River Forest Reserve and the Milkshakes Hills Forest Reserve. There is great bush walking, fishing, boating, and for the more adventurous, west to Marrawah to surf the Indian Ocean. Smithton makes an excellent gateway to visit the west coast’s Arthur River area, with the wilderness only a short drive away.

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