Will Will Rook Dog Off Leash Area

Will Will Rook is a big, open off-leash park in Broadmeadows near the Will Will Rook Pioneer Cemetery, running between Johnstone Street, Barry Road and Shankland Boulevard. It is unfenced and genuinely large, so it suits dogs with solid recall more than nervous escape artists, and it's open 24 hours if you're after an early or late walk.

The rules. The park is split into two off-leash sections joined by a middle strip along Shankland Boulevard where dogs must stay on-leash. Any part of the off-leash area that borders a school reverts to on-leash from 8am to 5pm on weekdays, and dogs can't be tied up within 10 metres of a school or preschool entrance. Carry a leash (2m max) and keep your dog under voice control at all times, and bag and bin all waste.

What's there. Water taps with bowls are available near the middle section and playground, plus bins throughout. The wider Valley Park area adds a playground, a basketball court, a soccer field and scattered picnic tables and benches.

Getting there. Barry Road and Shankland Boulevard both border the park with street parking available along the edges. Broadmeadows railway station is a short drive or a longer walk away, and several bus routes run along Barry Road with stops near the entrances.

Nearby with the dogs. Dog-friendly dining right at Broadmeadows is limited. A cafe near Broadmeadows station has outdoor seating suited to dogs, and the cafes at Broadmeadows Central are workable for a takeaway coffee before a picnic in the park. Quest Broadmeadows has taken pets on request in the past, so confirm at booking.

Weekday mornings before 9am and late afternoons from 4 to 6pm are busiest, along with weekend mornings. Given the size, it rarely feels crowded, but head to the northern sections on a weekday midday if your dog prefers fewer distractions.

Sources

• Dogs in Parks - Hume City Council · hume.vic.gov.au
• Hume Council Dog Off Leash Areas - Melbourne Playgrounds · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

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