Collier Reserve

Collier Reserve in Wantirna, across the road from the Westfield Knox shopping area, is a signed dog off-lead area with the sealed Blind Creek Trail running straight through it. Knox City Council looks after it.

Leads and the off-lead area

Dogs can run off lead here under effective control, on the open grass behind the screen of trees.

The catch is traffic. The reserve sits right beside Burwood Highway and Stud Road, two very busy roads, so a dog that bolts or ignores boundaries is safer on a lead.

The walk

The Blind Creek Trail crosses the reserve on a sealed shared path, with a footbridge over the creek and public art sculptures made from recycled bikes. It is a handy start for something longer, since the trail links towards Ringwood, Belgrave and the Dandenong Creek Trail.

Mature trees and big shrubs give some shade, though parts are open. The creek banks are steep, so this is not a swimming spot.

Getting started

There is a gravel car park off Burwood Highway and street parking on Alderford Drive. Bins line the paths, but there is no tap for dogs, so bring water and a bowl.

Max: Two main roads run past this reserve. If recall is patchy, keep the lead on and use the trail instead.

Make a day of it

For a fenced run, Wantirna Reserve Fenced Dog Park is close by, and Spade 9 Cafe & Bar makes an easy coffee stop.

Best for dogs with solid recall and owners who like a trail walk tacked onto a play session.