HE Parker Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

HE Parker Reserve is a big, well-used sporting reserve in Heathmont with a genuine 24/7 off-leash oval, a five-minute walk from Heathmont station and right on the Dandenong Creek Trail. It is popular rather than peaceful, but the space and facilities make it worth the trip.

The rules. The western oval is off-leash 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except when organised sport is being played on it. Dogs need to go back on lead on the Dandenong Creek trail itself, near the playground, on the tennis and netball courts, and within 15 metres of barbecues, picnic areas or any training session in progress. Effective voice control is expected even when off-leash.

What's there. There is a tap with a dog bowl, a large on-site car park, public toilets, and barbecue and picnic shelters. A playground next door makes this an easy combined stop if you have kids as well as dogs.

Getting there. The reserve is on Heathmont Road and has ample on-site parking. It is walking distance from Heathmont railway station, and the Dandenong Creek Trail and Heathmont Rail Trail both connect straight into it, so it works well as a start or end point for a longer walk.

Nearby with the dogs. Heathmont Village, a short walk or drive away, has a small strip of cafes including the dog-friendly Great Ryrie Cafe.

Weekday evenings from 5 to 7pm and weekend mornings are the busiest. Mid-week mornings and early afternoons are quiet. If the oval is booked for cricket or soccer, the adjacent grassed areas are the fallback.

Sources

• HE Parker Reserve | Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au

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