Peter Vergers Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Peter Vergers Reserve sits right on Maroondah Highway in Ringwood, built around two side-by-side grass ovals fringed by trees and bushland. The ovals are the off-leash zones, and the reserve backs onto the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, so a proper run and a longer leashed walk can happen in the same outing. It is a practical, well-serviced park rather than a pretty detour.

The dog setup

Dogs are off-leash on the ovals under effective voice control. Clip the lead back on for the shared paths including the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, within 15 metres of playgrounds or barbecue facilities, and around the Burnt Bridge Tennis Club courts. Carry bags and pick up; a dog water tap with a bowl, public toilets, shelters and bins sit near the entrance, which makes this one of the better-equipped off-leash grounds in the east.

The twin ovals are the real asset: even when a handful of dogs are about, there is room to spread out and throw a ball without crossfire.

Worth knowing

Maroondah has been rolling out updated dog exercise area plans, so it is worth confirming the current off-leash boundary on the council page before you rely on it. Busiest stretches are Wednesday and Thursday evenings and weekend afternoons; Monday to Thursday mornings are the quiet window.

Getting there and parking

Access is direct from Maroondah Highway westbound, with a long car park on the northern side of the ovals. Ringwood Station is within walking distance, so a train-and-walk trip works too.

While you're out there

Fingers Crossed Cafe on Maroondah Highway keeps a dog-welcoming outdoor courtyard, and 8 Track Brewery suits a post-park beer. For more off-leash ground nearby, Greenwood Park and Notlen Street both run off-leash ovals. The Victoria dog parks page and the Ringwood destination guide cover the rest.

Max: two big ovals means you can always find a clear patch even at peak time, and the water tap by the entrance saves carrying a bowl in from the car.