Seymour's new purpose-built dog-friendly space at Chittick Park has officially opened, providing local dog owners with a safe and welcoming place to exercise, train and socialise their four-legged friends.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall officially opened the new facility on 8 October alongside Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes, marking the completion of the project following months of construction.
Located behind the Seymour Tennis Complex, the Chittick Park Dog Friendly Space was supported by $166,500 from the Victorian Government's New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program, alongside a $66,500 contribution from Mitchell Shire Council.
The new facility includes:
- A fully fenced main area and dedicated shy dog zone
- Secure double gates to external entrances
- Tree planting for shade, cooling and habitat
- Rocks, logs and planting to provide sensory experiences, space breakers, marking areas and physical challenges
- A digging pit
- A variety of surfaces and textures for dog training and familiarisation
- Accessible seating
- Solar lighting
- Space for balls and fetch
The facility is a key action from the Chittick Park Masterplan, endorsed in 2024 following extensive community consultation. It also supports Council's Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2029 and responds to the on-leash order introduced in July, increasing demand for dedicated fenced off-leash areas.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said the opening was an exciting milestone for Seymour's dog-owning community.
"This is a fantastic new space for Seymour and delivers on a clear priority identified by our community through the Chittick Park Masterplan," he said. "Dog owners now have a dedicated, safe and welcoming place where their dogs can run, play, train and socialise, while also providing a space for people to connect with each other.
"It's fantastic to see this project now complete, and I want to thank the Victorian Government for its contribution and everyone who helped bring this community vision to life."
