Ouse is a small service town on the Lyell Highway in the upper Derwent Valley. It sits between farming country, hydro-electric infrastructure and roads leading towards the Central Highlands.

A practical road stop

Fuel, food and opening hours are limited compared with larger towns. Check supplies before continuing towards remote lakes, the west coast or mountain roads.

Hydro-electric lake and forested slopes in Tasmania
Lake Meadowbank is managed as part of the lower Derwent power system.Gary Houston, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lake Meadowbank

Lake Meadowbank lies between Ouse and Hamilton and forms part of the lower Derwent hydro-electric system. Recreation occurs alongside power generation, farms and steep banks, so use designated access and current Hydro Tasmania advice.

Open highland landscape and water in central Tasmania
Ouse is a gateway to higher, colder inland country.Vulgarurbanism, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Build a valley route

Combine Ouse with Hamilton, Bothwell or the Central Highlands. Frost, wildlife and rapidly changing highland weather make late driving less forgiving.