Apex Dog Park

Apex Dog Park sits on Riverway Drive in Rasmussen, opposite 1255 Riverway Drive, and its drawcard is simple: a fenced off-leash area that opens straight onto the Ross River for a swim.

The rules. The park side is fenced, but the riverbank is open, so a dog with patchy recall needs a lead or close supervision near the water. Keep your dog under effective control at all times, stick to the designated area near the sensitive riverside habitat, and bag and bin waste.

What's there. Expect a bitumen carpark, wheelchair-accessible parking, an elevated walkway and viewing platform, lighting, and basic seating. Taps are limited or unreliable, so bring your own water and bowl for your dog.

Getting there. It's a car trip for most people, on Riverway Drive near the bend in the river, close to Riverway Plaza. There are bus stops along Riverway Drive if you're checking Translink, but this isn't really a walk-up park unless you're local.

Nearby with the dogs. Riverway Plaza is right next door, and Cafe at Riverway on Langdon Lane has a name locally for welcoming dogs on its outdoor seating, so it's a reasonable stop after a swim. Confirm current pet policy before you sit down, cafes change their rules.

When to go. Early mornings or late afternoons are cooler and quieter, especially in summer. After heavy rain the Ross River can rise and flow faster than it looks, and the bank turns to mud, so check conditions before you let a strong swimmer off the lead.

Sources

• Apex Park - Townsville City Council · townsville.qld.gov.au
• The dog-friendly Townsville cafe with a piano and free pool · townsvillebulletin.com.au

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