Southern Road Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Southern Road Reserve is a designated off-leash area on Southern Road in Mentone, run by City of Kingston. It is a spacious, open and shaded grassed reserve beside an oval, good for ball work and a proper run, but it is not fully fenced and sits next to a children's playground, so it rewards a reliable recall.

The rules. Dogs may be off-leash but must stay under effective voice or hand control at all times. Carry a lead, and put it on if your dog becomes a nuisance or aggressive. Bring dogs under control within 20 metres of the playground, any sporting event or barbecues. Kingston applies a limit of four dogs per person. Dogs in Victoria must be registered with the council and microchipped.

What's there. A drinking fountain with a dog bowl, plenty of natural shade from surrounding trees, and accessible footpaths. There are no public toilets at this reserve, so plan around that.

Getting there. Parking is along Southern Road and the surrounding side streets. Mentone station is a 5 to 10 minute walk, and the reserve is easily reached off the Nepean Highway and Balcombe Road.

When to go. Quietest midweek and midday; weekend mornings and weekday evenings are busiest. Given it is unfenced and near the playground, the quieter windows are easiest with a dog still learning recall.

Sources

• Southern Road Reserve - City of Kingston · kingston.vic.gov.au
• Kingston Council Off-Lead Parks - Bayside Dog Owners Group · baysidedogownersgroup.com.au

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