Mayer Park Dog Off Leash Area

Mayer Park is a spacious open park near Merri Creek in Thornbury with a designated off-leash area in its southern section. The off-leash zone is unfenced grassed space, so it is a runner's park rather than a contained one, and good recall matters.

The rules. Dogs are off-leash in the designated southern section, which is unfenced. They must stay on lead within 10 metres of the playground and barbecue facilities, and on all surrounding footpaths. Effective voice control is required off-leash, you must pick up after your dog, and dogs that are aggressive, unwell or on heat should stay home. These are Darebin Council rules, so confirm current signage on site.

What's there. A dog water tap and bowl, waste bins, picnic tables and benches, a playground and an outdoor exercise gym. The oval itself is largely open and unshaded, with mature eucalypts around the perimeter for a shady break.

Getting there. The park is around Newcastle Street between Merri Creek and Separation Street. Street parking is along Normanby Avenue and the surrounding residential streets. The 86 tram on High Street is a short walk, and the park connects to the Merri Creek trail.

Nearby with the dogs. Little Henri and The Old Milk Bar are both nearby for a dog-friendly coffee afterwards.

When to go. Weekday mornings and the middle of the day are quietest; weekday evenings and weekend middays are busiest. The open oval bakes in summer, so go early on hot days and bring water.

Sources

• Pets in parks - Darebin City Council · darebin.vic.gov.au
• Darebin Council Dog Off Leash Areas · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

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