Explore
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve is a peaceful, 499-hectare area that has been developed into a place of spiritual and historical importance, as well as providing refuge for native plant and animal species. The extensive park boasts diverse environmental, cultural and historical heritage.
See if you can identify some of the 90 native plant species across three vegetation communities throughout the reserve. Look especially close for the swamp scrub species. Swamp scrub communities have been depleted throughout Melbourne, so the remnants along the Dandenong Creek in the reserve are particularly precious.
As you walk through stands of Flowering Swamp Gum you might encounter thickets of Bare-limbed Swamp Paperbark, glimpse the jewel-like fruit of the Prickly Currant bush, spy the slightly alien leaves of Bidgee Widgee.
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve is also home to many native animal populations. Wedge-tailed Eagles and Black-shouldered Kites can often be seen flying overhead, and you might spot Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Swamp Wallabies on early morning walks – just be careful to keep a safe distance.
Things To Do
Walking
Birdwatching
Nerre Nerre Warren Picnic Area
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
How to get there
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve
When you're there
Dogs are permitted on a lead at Dandenong Police Paddocks and on the Woodland Walk.
All dogs in the picnic area must be kept on a lead at all times.
Motorbikes are prohibited in Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve.
Need to know
Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve
Accessibility
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.