A.B. Shaw Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

A.B. Shaw Reserve is a sporting reserve on Hall Avenue in Altona Meadows with a designated off-leash area across the open parkland behind and between its ovals. It is one of Hobsons Bay's listed off-leash spots, and the appeal is simple: plenty of flat grass for a proper run, with the usual sportsground conditions attached.

The dog setup

Off-leash applies to the open ground, not the ovals while organised sport or training is on, and leads go back on around the playground and car park. Council requires dogs to be registered and under effective control, meaning in sight and returning promptly when called. The reserve is only partially fenced, so it suits dogs with reliable recall rather than escape artists.

What is there

Water taps, bins, seating and a playground, with parking off Hall Avenue. The surface is grass throughout and holds mud after decent rain, so expect a slower clean-up for the dog in winter.

Max: junior sport takes over the ovals on winter weekends. Lead on when the games are running, and give the sidelines a wide berth.

Getting there and parking

Set your maps for Hall Avenue, Altona Meadows, and park in the reserve car park. The reserve sits a drive or long walk from local bus routes along Point Cook Road, so most visits start from the car.

While you're out there

If you need secure fencing, the fully enclosed park at Henry Dr Dog Off-Lead Park is close by, and Little Rosebery Cafe keeps dog-friendly outdoor tables for afterwards. The Altona Beach Dog Off Leash Arena adds a coastal option a short drive north.

More options are on the Victoria dog friendly parks guide and the Altona Meadows destination page.