Council & Politics
19 September, 2026
Ararat’s new dog park officially opens
ARARAT’S Centenary Dog Park was officially opened last week, giving local dogs a new space to run, play and socialise. The project was funded through the Victorian Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program, providing the community with a purpose-built space for dogs and their owners.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the new park provided a central location for residents to exercise their dogs.
“We have a lot of dogs in this town, and for so many people who are working, the dogs might be at home during the day. We know so many go for bushwalks and things around town, but it’s nice to have a central spot like this where they can just let them off the lead,” she said.
Ms Haylett said the new facilities would also provide an added benefit for visitors travelling through Ararat.
“So many people stop in on their way to Adelaide or the Grampians. It’s a good tourism drawcard now that we’ve got two dog parks in town.”
Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Bob Sanders said the size of the park would particularly benefit larger dogs.
“I think it’s absolutely marvellous for the town, this is our second dog park now, and being such a large size it gives those larger dogs a big area to actually run around in,” he said.
“It’s well situated for the township and it’s got a lot of facilities here for people. I think we will be surprised how much it gets used.”
Local dog owners Dianne and Chelsea were among those enjoying the new facility, with the higher fencing providing added security for dogs and peace of mind for their owners.
“Having something so close by where we can let them off the lead and not have to feel worried that they are going to run away, it’s brilliant,” Chelsea said.
“This one is a bit more secure,” she said, noting the benefit for owners of larger dogs who can easily jump fences.
Dianne said the park also provided an opportunity for owners to connect while their dogs socialised.
“As much as the dogs socialise and getting along with other dogs, it’s a good social thing for the owners as well,” she said.
The park’s two separate areas also provide an option for owners whose dogs may not be comfortable socialising directly with other animals.
“You’ve got the two areas, so if you do have one that’s not good with other dogs you can introduce them through the fence,” Dianne said.
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