General News
1 April, 2025
Maryborough’s first dog park
Maryborough is about to have its first ever off-leash dog park, following the announcement of $100,000 for the new facility at Jack Pascoe Reserve.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the announcement was a much needed win for the community.
“This is a huge win for Maryborough. Everyone is always talking to me about the need for more dog parks in our community. It is fantastic that this reserve which is so well used by the community, is also going to have a dog park right next to it,” she said.
Located between the Maryborough Little Athletics Centre and Maryborough Netball Association complex the chosen site will need additional infrastructure added to ensure the area is secure for off-leash dogs.
The site will feature designated play areas, drinking fountains, fencing, shelters, bins and shading, as well as other upgrades such as pathway improvements, landscaping and lighting.
“This project will have a fenced area with amenities for smaller and larger dogs to interact safely and exercise while promoting responsible pet ownership,” Ms Haylett said.
She also said this will be an outdoor space every local and their dog can enjoy.
“We want to make sure that everyone has the best health and wellbeing possible, and getting into the great outdoors with their pets makes that possible. We hope to get some more across the region,” Ms Haylett said.
Central Goldfields Shire councillor Geoff Bartlett agreed the announcement has addressed wishes of many locals.
“The creation of an off-leash dog park has been desired by many dog lovers for such a long while. We appreciate the State Government’s generous funding. This was one of the platform initiatives Cr Jake Meyer campaigned,” he said.
“With this project being fully funded by the State Government, the ratepayers will not only benefit by virtue of not bearing the cost but residents also get to enjoy a safe new amenity.”
Cr Bartlett said Central Goldfields Shire staff identified which local area would be adequate and secured the funding.
“The variety of topography, plenty of shade and even a dam for a man’s best friend to swim in will surely benefit residents and their dog’s wellbeing,” he said.
Numerous sites across Victoria have been chosen for designated dog parks.
This project was delivered as part of the State Government’s invest-ment to create more open spaces for families and pets.
The dog park projects were chosen through a statewide competitive application process with councils, with construction expected to be completed on all projects by the end of 2026.