R J Sillitoe Reserve Dog Off Leash Area is a beloved community hub in Hampton, located on Lawson Street. This “Tier 2” semi-secure sports ground is famous for its winter “Lights on for Dogs” program, making it a go-to spot for evening exercise.
Sillitoe Reserve: At a Glance
- 💡 The Vibe: Active and safe. The evening lights create a vibrant social scene in winter.
- 🐕 Best For: Locals who need an after-work run in winter, provided the oval isn’t booked for soccer.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24/7 (Except during sports).
- Fencing: Partially Fenced. Gaps exist along Lawson St.
- 🅿️ Parking: Sealed car park available on the Ludstone St side.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Winter Lights: The “Lights on for Dogs” program (Mondays 5pm–8pm in Winter) is a huge bonus, allowing for safe play after dark.
- Semi-Secure: While largely enclosed, there are gaps in the fencing. It is safer than an open oval but not escape-proof for determined runners.
- Water: Drinking water is available onsite.
For the Humans
- New Pavilion: The $52m pavilion upgrade means access to modern public toilets.
- Seating: Benches are available for watching the action.
- Waste Bags: Dispensers are generally stocked, keeping the oval clean.
Insider Tip: Mondays are the best night to visit in winter due to the lights. However, always check for soccer training first—if the teams are on the field, the dogs must be on-leash. It’s a shared space, so respect the schedule.
The Final Verdict
R J Sillitoe Reserve is an “awesome” community asset, particularly for the winter lighting program. It balances the needs of sports and dogs well, offering a semi-secure environment with great amenities. Just be mindful of the fence gaps if your dog likes to explore the street.
For sports schedules, visit the Bayside City Council website.
Sillitoe Reserve: FAQ
Q: Is the park fully fenced?
A: No, it is partially fenced with some gaps along Lawson Street.
Q: Is there lighting at night?
A: Yes, but only on Mondays from 5pm–8pm during winter as part of the “Lights on for Dogs” program.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: Yes, public toilets are available at the new pavilion.
