Dog Off Leash Exercise Area - Elizabeth Gardens

An open, grassed off-leash run at the northern end of Diadem Street in North Lismore, part of the Elizabeth Gardens - Sunset Park reserve. The defining feature is space with a riverfront outlook and mature shade trees, which makes it a comfortable spot for medium and large dogs that need room to move. The catch is that it is not fully fenced, so recall matters here.

The rules. Dogs may be off-leash within the designated area, but you must keep them under effective voice control at all times. The surrounding public areas are on-leash, so leash up before you leave the marked zone. Clean up after your dog, and if a dog shows aggression it must be leashed and removed. These conditions come from Lismore City Council.

What is there. Large shade trees make it usable through the warmer months, and there is a covered picnic table for owners. Dog-tidy bins are on-site for waste, and fresh water is available.

The terrain. Open grass with a riverfront aspect. It is flat and easy underfoot, which suits older dogs and big runners alike, but the open, unfenced layout means a bolting dog has somewhere to bolt to.

Watch-outs. The lack of a full fence is the main one. Reserve this for dogs with reliable recall, especially when other dogs are about, and keep a closer eye near the river edge and the road end of Diadem Street.

Getting there. Head to the northern end of Diadem Street in North Lismore, an easy drive from the CBD, with street parking on Diadem Street.

Nearby. The Lismore CBD cafes with footpath seating are close by, and Riverside Park south of the Ballina Street bridge is another off-leash option if you want a change of scene.

When to go. It is busiest on Monday nights, Thursday and Friday mornings, and across the weekend. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons are the quiet windows, and given the open layout those quieter times are the safer bet for a dog still building its recall.

Sources

• Dog parks and off-leash areas - Lismore City Council · lismore.nsw.gov.au
• Elizabeth Gardens - Sunset Park - Lismore City Council · lismore.nsw.gov.au
• Dog Walking Venues Lismore & Nimbin · tropicalfruits.org.au

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