More parks for pups

MORE than $5 million is being invested across the state to provide dogs and their owners with more green spaces closer to home.

Round 2 of the New and Upgraded Dog Parks program is under way, with grant funding of up to $100,000 and $300,000 available for local projects.

The funding will primarily be for purpose-built facilities for dogs and upgrades and additions to existing off-leash areas.

This includes designated ball play areas, sand digging pits, agility equipment, drinking fountains, fencing, shelters, bins, landscaping, and lighting.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant encouraged local councils to put forward their best ideas.

“Quality, green open spaces close to home are so important to the health and wellbeing of our local communities –giving our dog owners and their beloved furry companions a new ‘leash’ on life!”$7.6 million was pledged during round 1 of the grants program, paving the way for a new dog park to be built locally in Armstrong Creek.

The park will be based out of Charlemont’s Sparrowvale Wetland Reserve and is one of 19 coming dog parks across Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Round 2 of the dog park locations will be announced in early 2025 following a competitive grants process.

All projects will undergo community consultation before designs are made final.

For more information and to apply to the program, head to environment.vic.gov.au/dog-parks