Constructed in 1874, this exquisite building that is Forrest Lodge is an excellent example of a single story Victorian Georgian residence.

Restoration has included a new galvanised roof in 2006 replacing the old shingled roof.

The main roof is hipped and constructed with 'M' shaped ridges forming a box gutter running to the rear.  The low limestone wall along the front boundary is part original and part reconstruction of an earlier wall, with some parts of the original material thought to have been incorporated.

GRCEC has been fortunate to gain funding from Lotterywest to help in the preservation of this historic building.

The Geraldton Regional Community Education Centre Inc was formally constituted on 14th March 1975.  Forrest Lodge was then purchased, renovated and furnished with the help of a capital grant from the Schools Commission of $118,860. Prior to moving into Forrest Lodge, the Centre rented the Old Railway Building for a period of four months during which time Forrest Lodge was being renovated.  The Centre then took up residency in December 1975.

Over the past thirty two years GRCEC has experienced many changes in response to the needs of the community.  It remains as a non government, not-for-profit community organisation committed to supporting people in need in the Geraldton and Mid West, Gascoyne and Murchison regions.  In addition to Forrest Lodge we have offices at the Annexe (formerly the Jose's Trefusus Factory), and in Carnarvon.

The longest running programme, and a finalist in the 2005 Community Services Industry Awards is OSCCA (since 1979), the after school and vacation care programme situated in Ramshaw Place behind the main building.

GRCEC currently delivers a wide range of programmes, including education and training, child care, youth services and counselling.