Chelsea Bicentennial Park Dog Off Leash Area

The short version. This is a large, mostly open off-leash area at the southern end of Chelsea Bicentennial Park, off the eastern end of Argyle Avenue. It comes with a proper agility circuit, which is the thing that sets it apart from a plain grass paddock. The catch worth knowing up front: it is largely unfenced.

The rules. Dogs must be under effective control of someone over 16, with a maximum of four dogs per person. Dangerous, menacing and restricted breeds are not permitted, and dogs must not rush, chase or harass people, other dogs or wildlife. Pick up after your dog and use the bins provided. Because the area is unfenced, a reliable recall matters here - keep dogs that bolt on a long lead until you know the space.

What's there. The agility circuit runs on a wood-mulch base with six obstacles, including weave poles and hurdles. There is a shelter with a table, a water tap with a dog bowl, and a gravel path running through the area. Poo bags and bins are placed at key points.

Getting there. Drive in via Argyle Avenue and park near its eastern end. Chelsea Station on the Frankston line is within walking distance, and local buses run along Wells Road and Station Street.

Nearby with the dog. The Nepean Highway strip near the station has several dog-friendly cafes with outdoor seating for afterwards. Note that Chelsea Beach runs its own seasonal on- and off-leash rules, separate from the park, so check the Kingston foreshore regulations before heading to the sand.

When to go. Early mornings, late afternoons and weekends are the busy stretches. For a quieter run, aim for weekday mid-mornings or early afternoons.

Sources

• Kingston foreshore dog regulations · kingston.vic.gov.au

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