Fitzsimons Reserve

Fitzsimons Reserve is a 7.8-hectare riverside parkland on Fitzsimons Lane in Templestowe, sitting in the habitat corridor that links Candlebark Park and Westerfolds Park along the Yarra. It is a nature-and-recreation reserve rather than a dedicated dog park, with wetlands, remnant bushland, a canoe launch and mountain bike flow trails, so the dog rules are tighter than at a standard reserve.

The dog setup

Under Manningham Council rules, dogs may be off-lead in the designated portions of the reserve, such as the path heading east towards the river from the carpark, provided they stay under effective control. On-lead applies within 15 metres of the shared trails and paths, playground equipment and barbecue areas.

The reserve is also a working wildlife corridor with a resident kangaroo population, so close control through the environmental areas matters as much for the wildlife as for your dog. Confirm the signage on arrival, since zones are marked rather than fenced.

Worth knowing

The bike flow trails are fast-moving and dogs need to stay well clear of them; stick to the leashed shared paths. There is no drinking tap for dogs on-site, so bring your own water and bowl.

Max: this is a leash-discipline park. If your dog wants a free gallop, keep it to the signed off-lead section away from the trails, and expect to clip back on the moment a rider or a kangaroo appears.

Getting there and parking

An off-street car park off Fitzsimons Lane puts you close to the river viewing platform and trailheads, and if it is full, the Westerfolds Park river picnic area car park is nearby. The Main Yarra Trail runs through the western part of the reserve, so cycling in is easy, and buses along Reynolds Road leave a short walk.

Make a day of it

The Main Yarra Trail from Candlebark Park to Tikalara Park continues the riverside walk on-lead. For proper off-leash running, Serpells Community Reserve and Templestowe Reserve Dog Off Leash Area are close alternatives.

Two Doors Cafe covers the coffee afterwards, and more options are on the Victorian dog park guide and the Templestowe destination page.

Leash status

Off-lead only in the signed portions of the reserve; on-lead within 15 metres of shared trails, playground and BBQ areas.

Water

No dog tap on-site; carry your own.

When to go

Early weekday mornings are quietest. Weekends and sunny afternoons get busy with playground families and bike riders. Best for dogs happy on-lead who enjoy a riverside walk over open running.