Bakers Oval

Bakers Oval on Shannon Avenue is a local sporting reserve in Geelong West with one big advantage for dog owners. When no organised sport or training is on, dogs may run off lead on the grassed oval.

Leads and the off-lead oval

City of Greater Geelong rules make the oval an off-leash area under effective control only while it is free of sport. Around the rest of the reserve, dogs must be on lead.

Dogs must also stay at least 10 metres from the playground and any barbecue area. The small playground faces Shannon Avenue, so clip on before you pass it.

The walk

This is a lap of an oval rather than a trail. Circle the grass or follow the concrete footpaths along Shannon Avenue, past the pavilion, the cricket nets and the Corio Model Railway Club clubhouse.

Water and shade

There is no dog water tap in the reserve, so bring a bottle and bowl. Shade is very limited, mostly the coaches' boxes and some seating, though bins and public toilets are on site.

Street parking runs along Shannon Avenue and the surrounding streets.

Max: If a team turns up mid-run, the off-lead permission ends right there. Clip on and head for the footpath.

Make a day of it

Head for coffee at Sodi Cafe or The Village Door afterwards.

When to go

Check the oval is empty before unclipping, as matches and training take priority. With so little shade, cooler mornings and evenings suit it best in summer.