Suburb of the Month LATROBE

 

Location

 

Latrobe is a town situated in the north of Tasmania, upon the Mersey River. The town is located 8 km south-east of Devonport and around 250 km north-west of Hobart.

 

 

Description

 

Latrobe was named in 1861 after Charles Joseph Latrobe, who was the first lieutenant-governor of Victoria. The town is now widely known as 'the platypus capital of the world', as many of the mammals can be found in the Mersey River at Latrobe. It is a serene, picturesque town with a number of historic streetscapes and is a popular tourist destination.

 

Facilities

 

Latrobe includes two primary schools and two secondary schools, as well as an extensive shopping centre and a hospital. Latrobe was a major town in Tasmania during the nineteenth century, and the town continues to reflect its historical roots. There are currently over 70 heritage-listed buildings within Latrobe, and the town also has a National Trust-run museum which aims to conserve local history. Other attractions in the area include a chocolate factory and numerous picturesque parks and reserves, including Bells Parade which is a popular picnic spot amongst locals and visitors alike.               

 

Industry and Employment

 

Agriculture is one of the largest sectors within Latrobe, with fruit orchards and processing plants in the area employing a number of residents. Other major sectors in the town include health and tourism. The Mersey Community Hospital is located in Latrobe and employs over 300 staff. Many Latrobe residents also make the short commute to the regional centre of Devonport for employment in the retail, manufacturing, transport and tourism industries.

 

Population

 

The 2006 Census found the population of Latrobe to be 3,528 and current estimates put this figure at over 5,000. The predominant age group in the town is 30-39.

 

Housing Market

 

There are 1,917 houses and 275 units in Latrobe, for a total of 2,192 dwellings.

 

Residex Statistics

 

Houses

Units

Predicted Annual Growth over the next 5 years

8% p.a

8% p.a

Current median rental yield

5.3%

4.1%

Current median value

$251,000

$233,500

Current weekly median rent

$260

$185

 
To view properties for sale in Latrobe click here

September 2010