Thompsons Park

Thompsons Park is a grassed riverside reserve on River Road, Latrobe, running alongside the Mersey River a couple of minutes from the Gilbert Street shops. The draw is simple: it is a declared 24/7 off-leash dog exercise area, so it works as an anytime run without watching the clock.

The rules. Dogs can be off-leash around the clock but must stay under effective control, which means responsive to voice and within sight. Keep dogs at least 10 metres clear of any children's playground equipment, pick up after them, and use the bins provided. These are set under the Latrobe Council dog management zones, so check the on-site signage for the current boundary on the day.

What's there. Open lawn for running, bins for dog waste, and level, accessible ground. It is a plain park rather than a fitted-out dog park, so there is no fenced enclosure or dog-wash here; bring your own water on warm days.

Getting there. It is on River Road, roughly a two-minute drive from Gilbert Street or a short walk along the river path from central Latrobe. Kerbside parking is available on River Road. Public transport is limited, though regional buses stop in the town centre a short walk away.

Nearby with the dogs. Shadows Cafe on Gilbert Street has a dog-friendly courtyard for a coffee afterwards, and the Latrobe Fenced Dog Park is close by if you want a secure enclosure instead.

When to go. Weekday mid-mornings are quietest; early mornings and the 4pm to 6pm after-work window are the busiest as locals walk their dogs. A timid dog is better off visiting off-peak.

Sources

• Schedule B: Dog Management Zones - Latrobe Council · latrobe.tas.gov.au
• Latrobe Council Dog Management Policy · latrobe.tas.gov.au
• Thompsons Park, Latrobe - Spirit of Tasmania · spiritoftasmania.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.