Churchill Reserve Dog Park

Churchill Reserve Dog Park is a fenced, purpose-built off-leash area within the Churchill Recreation Reserve in Benalla, opened by Benalla Rural City Council in October 2023. It is a straightforward, council-run enclosure rather than a scenic destination, but it does the job well for a secure off-lead run, and it is open 24 hours.

The dog setup

Entry and exit run through double airlock-style gates, which matter here because a single gate risks a dog slipping out while another comes in. Once inside the fully fenced perimeter, dogs can run free under council rules that ask for effective voice or hand control and a leash carried at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up and should use the waste disposal units on site. There is a water station with a dog bowl, three bench seats donated by local community groups, two tunnel and mound features to explore, and shade from established trees around parts of the reserve. There is no separate small-dog and large-dog split.

Max: check the reserve for scheduled sport before you go. It shares the grounds with other facilities, so it can get busier than you would expect on game days.

Worth knowing

This is a fenced, no-fuss option for a secure off-lead break while passing through Benalla on the Hume, and it suits locals equally well for a daily run. Go early or late on weekdays if you want the space to yourself. Confirm the signage on site when you visit, as council rules can be updated.

Getting there and parking

The dog park sits within the broader Churchill Recreation Reserve on the edge of Benalla, reached off Bond Street near Waller Street. There is no dedicated off-street car park for the dog area specifically, so allow a little extra time for street parking nearby, especially if a sporting event is on elsewhere in the reserve. Entry points and parking are wheelchair accessible.

While you're out there

For an overnight stop with the dog, Benalla Tourist Park is the local caravan and camping option, and Clement House offers heritage-style accommodation in town. If you are continuing up the highway, Shepparton Fenced Dog Park at Princess Park is another enclosed yard within an hour's drive.

More options are on the Victoria dog parks guide and the Benalla destination page.