Gooseponds Dog Park

Gooseponds Dog Park is a fully fenced, off-leash park on Willis Street in North Mackay, opposite North Mackay State Primary School. Its formal council name is Police Dog Tunza Dog Park, and it borders the wider Gooseponds wetland parklands, so a fenced play session can extend into an on-leash lagoon walk without moving the car.

The rules. Off-leash is permitted inside the fenced park itself, but dogs must go back on lead on the surrounding Gooseponds walking trails. Keep your dog under effective voice control at all times, carry a lead even when off it, and clean up immediately. Dogs should be registered and current on vaccinations before visiting.

What's there. Double-gate entry, shaded seating for owners, drinking water for dogs and people, and agility equipment for exercise. Small and large dog areas are sometimes separated depending on council maintenance, so check on arrival.

Getting there. The park sits on Willis Street, North Mackay 4740, reachable via Glenpark Street off the Bruce Highway or via Sams Road. Free on-site parking is available on Willis Street. Nearest bus stops are on Mackay-Bucasia Road; private transport is easier since pets are generally restricted on buses.

Nearby with the dogs. The Coffee Club in North Mackay and several cafes in the Mackay CBD allow dogs in outdoor areas. BIG4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park is a popular dog-friendly stay a short drive away.

Go early or late on weekdays to dodge the crowd, and expect the trail loop around the wetland to turn muddy after heavy rain. The fenced area itself is shaded, so it holds up reasonably well through the middle of the day.

Sources

• Dog off-leash areas - Mackay Regional Council · mackay.qld.gov.au
• Gooseponds, North Mackay - BIG4 · big4.com.au

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