Eltham Lower Park dog park

Project typeNew facility
Project scheduleExpected completion October 2025

Background

Nillumbik is the perfect place to own a pet with the beautiful open spaces and parks to walk them in. As a part of the Eltham Lower Park upgrade, and in support of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2021-2025, a dedicated off-leash dog park will be built on part of the Eltham Lower Park equestrian arena. This will also see some upgrades to fencing and facilities for the equestrian arena.

A concept plan was shared with the community to provide feedback in late 2023. The community’s response has helped shape the final design.

Works include

Separate spaces for dogs and horses
Accessible car parking, path connection and seating
Inclusion of water station and dog waste station
Seating and shelter in dedicated viewing area
Snake-proof fencing around dog park perimeter
New fencing around the north-west perimeter of the equestrian park

View the final design.

Funding details

The new dog park is being funded as part of a $2 million commitment by the Federal Member for Jagajaga Kate Thwaites MP through the Federal Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program.

Project updates

July 2025

A concrete pathway circuit has been constructed and seating has now been installed. The circuit offers a passive recreational opportunity for dog walkers and represents an upgrade from what was originally included in the concept plan.

Improvements to the gravel car park have also been completed, including site clearing, grading, and the formalisation of parking bays using repurposed timber logs from the former equestrian dressage area.

Next steps for this project include:

Sand-based surface material will be delivered and spread throughout the dog park, consistent with the material previously used in this area. These works will help re-level the surface to support natural drainage runoff.
Installation of two shelters (one inside the dog park and one in the viewing area), dog waste bin and water station.

All works are expected to be completed in October 2025.