We are upgrading pitch 3 at Gardiners Reserve (the northern soccer pitch) to improve the playing surface and to support the growing rates of participation in community sport
Works are planned from mid-October 2026 to March 2027, and the pitch will be temporarily closed during this time.
What's happening
As part of the project we will:
- improve drainage and irrigation
- install new turf (grass)
Once the new turf is laid, the pitch must remain closed for 6 months so the grass can establish and develop strong roots.
What to expect during works
Pitch closure
Pitch 3 will be fenced off and closed from mid-October 2026 to March 2027.
Keeping the area closed while the grass establishes will help ensure the pitch has a durable, high-quality playing surface when the reserve reopens.
Parking
Part of the car park will be temporarily fenced off and used by the construction team during works.
Dog off-leash area
During works, dogs can still be off leash in the reserve areas around pitch 3. Please note, dogs are not allowed on the synthetic soccer pitch or the southern pitch.
Alternative Monash off-leash areas nearby:
- Ashwood Reserve, 104 High Street Road, Ashwood (some restrictions apply to sportsgrounds and trail)
- Federal Reserve, 2 Federal Street, Mount Waverley
Correction
In our letter to residents, we incorrectly listed Essex Heights Reserve instead of Federal Reserve.
Essex Heights Reserve is NOT a designated dog off-leash area and we apologise for the confusion.
City of Whitehorse also maintains Bennettswood Reserve and Gardiners Greek Reserve, which are both off designated dog off-lead public spaces.
