McDonald Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

McDonald Reserve is a large, open sports oval on Bell Street in Coburg with a designated off-leash area, roughly 160 by 115 metres of flat, lightly treed grass. It suits a dog that wants a proper run, with the big caveat that it is not fully fenced and borders busy Bell Street.

The rules. Dogs must be under effective voice or hand control and you must carry a lead. Dogs are not allowed on the playing field when organised sport or training is on. Lead up within 15 metres of any playground, equipment or sporting ground during play. A maximum of 4 dogs per person applies, and you must pick up after your dog, as no bags are supplied on site.

What is there. A wide grass oval with a walking path along the northern boundary, light tree cover and floodlights on the oval. There is no water tap for dogs, so bring your own bottle and bowl. Some waste bins sit along the Bell Street side.

Getting there. On Bell Street (State Route 55), with a car park on the north side near the tennis courts, best reached from the residential streets to the north rather than turning off busy Bell Street. The Bell Street and Sydney Road tram stop is nearby, and Coburg Station on the Upfield line is a 10 to 15 minute walk.

When to go. Busiest on late weekday afternoons and weekend mornings. Quieter mid-morning. Always confirm the oval is free of organised sport before letting your dog off.

Sources

• McDonald Reserve - Merri-bek City Council · merri-bek.vic.gov.au
• Dog Off Leash Areas council order - Merri-bek · merri-bek.vic.gov.au

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