Tirhatuan Dog Park in Dandenong North has reopened following major upgrades funded by the Andrews Labor Government.

The Labor Government provided $153,500 to the City of Greater Dandenong to carry out upgrades, which have delivered a new dedicated small dog area, agility equipment, and shelters and picnic tables.

The investment was funded through the $2.7 billion Building Works program, which is funding hundreds of shovel-ready projects across the state to create jobs and drive Victoria’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

It complements the $154 million Suburban Parks Program – which will create or upgrade 6,500 hectares of public open space, including parkland and new trails, plus pocket parks and off-leash dog parks across Melbourne.

Redleap Reserve in Mill Park, East Street Dog Park in Kilmore and Don Jackson Reserve Dog Park in Pakenham have also re-opened following upgrades in the past six months.

More than 30 dog parks are also planned soon, including Carrum Downs, Eynesbury, Belgrave and Altona – and in the regional centres of Ararat, Buninyong, Yarragon, Portland, Belmont, Shepparton, Mildura, Swan Hill and Warracknabeal.

For information about the off-leash dog parks being delivered and the Suburban Parks Program, visit environment.vic.gov.au/suburban-parks.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio

“We promised to invest in dog parks for families and their pets to enjoy – and we’re delivering.”

“The investment in open space – such as parks and dog parks – is an important investment that is creating local jobs, making life better for families and building on our reputation as one of the world’s most liveable cities.

Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams

“Recreational spaces enhance the liveability of our local area. Dog parks allow safe spaces for local families to exercise their pets and socialise with other pet owners. This is another great community asset that will be well-utilised by locals – two and four legged!”