Busbys Pond and Duck Pond Loop

The Busbys Pond and Duck Pond loop is a flat 3.7 km circuit through Centennial Parklands, and the pond rule governs all of it. Dogs must be on lead within 10 metres of any pond or lake, so a walk built around two ponds stays on lead for most of its length, even though these parklands are among the most off lead friendly public spaces in Sydney.

The walk. About 3.7 km, flat, easy and largely paved, comfortably under an hour at a strolling pace. It links the two ponds through the middle of the park, with black swans, ducks and pelicans on the water for most of the year. The surface suits prams and wheels, and the whole circuit sits inside Grand Drive.

The rules. Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust runs the parklands, the rules are legally enforceable and rangers do issue fines. Over 30% of the open space is designated off lead, but that ground is outside Grand Drive. Inside and on the Grand Drive circuit dogs must be on lead, as they must on all roads, shared pathways and cycle lanes. Within 10 metres of any pond or lake the lead is compulsory, and dogs are not allowed in the ponds at all.

Off limits. Dogs are prohibited from the wildlife protection areas, which include the Bird Sanctuary and York Road Bushland, and from the horse and cycle tracks, the equestrian grounds, the Learner's Cycleway, roads, and sporting fields while in use. They must stay 10 metres clear of children's playgrounds and of all food preparation areas, barbecues, cafes and restaurants included. Tramway Oval and Kippax Lake Field are closed to dogs at all times, as are Moore Park Golf Course and the parklands sports centre. One person may lead a maximum of four dogs.

Water. Look but do not swim. The ponds are wildlife habitat and closed to dogs, and the lead rule exists to keep it that way. Bring your own water.

Nearby with the dogs. The Greenhouse at Centennial Park is inside the parklands, though remember the 10 metre rule around food areas and settle at an outside table with the lead on. Queens Park Kitchen and Bar Lucio sit on the Queens Park edge, Doglateria Bondi is a short drive if the dog has earned something, and the Hughenden Hotel at Woollahra takes dogs if you are staying over.

When to go. Mid week mornings. Weekends fill the paths with runners, cyclists and prams, and shared pathways are lead only in any case, so a crowded day hands you all the rules and none of the freedom. Good for big runners, once the pond circuit is done and you can cross to the off lead ground outside Grand Drive.

Sources

• Dog walking - Centennial Parklands · www.centennialparklands.com.au
• Dogs in Centennial Parklands brochure · www.centennialparklands.com.au

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