The Dog Line

The Dog Line is one of the most terrifying parts of Tasmania’s complex convict history.

The 30 meter wide neck that leads to the Tasman Peninsula from mainland Tasmania was once guarded by a line of up to nine ferocious dogs. Three more were later positioned on watery platforms extending toward Norfolk Bay. 

A life-size bronze replica of this infamous scene can be found along a winding path near the local Community Hall.

The dogs were housed in old barrels and stationed within touching distance of one another but not close enough to fight. Along the ‘dog line’, oil lamps were fixed on posts at chest height and cockle shells were scattered on the ground to reflect the light.

Rumours were spread that the local waters were shark infested so ‘The Neck’ was the only exit from the peninsula.