Coburg Lake Reserve playground walk

Coburg Lake Reserve playground walk created by Jane - Victoria Walks

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Summary

Coburg Lake Reserve, just to the north of Pentridge, is a family-friendly and picturesque park with plenty of facilities, good paths and three playgrounds to choose from.

Description

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Once a bluestone quarry worked by prisoners from Pentridge Prison, Coburg Lake Reserve is now a great spot for picnics and walking. You can walk around the lake with three pits-tops (playgrounds) along the way. But if you want to roam further there are great shared paths along the Merri Creek to the north and south.

What's there: Beautiful shade trees on the southern bank of the lake care of the Avenue of Honour planted in memory of War World I soldiers

There's three fantastic playgrounds suiting a range of ages, including De Chene which has a long flying fox and a maze for older children. On the southern bank the rocket playground (Gaffney Playground) has been updated in recent years.

There's also beautiful native trees and planting along the walking paths and plenty of bird life, free gym equipment, a chessboard table and great picnic and barbecue facilities dotted around.

Getting there: If you're not driving you can take the #19 tram along Sydney Road and get off at Gaffney Street, then head east to Murray Road. Alternatively Batman Station on the Upfield Line is a 10-minute walk from Coburg Lake, or if you're heading from the east then the 561 bus drops you nearby at Newlands Road on the east side of the reserve.

DOGS
Please note that dogs must remain on a leash at all times in the Reserve.

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Points of Interest

1. Car park and entry

If you travelling by car this is the best place to park. Be aware the car park does close at night time so check signage. If you are using public transport, you can use the PTV journey planner (link).

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2. Public toilets

There is a decent toilet block situated next to the Harry Atkinson Art and Craft Centre. The Harry Atkinson Centre is available for events and functions - see link below.

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3. Contemplation garden

A quiet, shady spot to sit, with several wooden benches surrounded by native gardens. There is also a viewing platform with a lovely aspect of the Merri Creek.

4. Doug Hull Adventure Park

This playground is suited to younger children / toddlers. For those with prams, continue along the creek path and then head up to the playground closer to Carr St to avoid a grassy hill.

5. Bridge over the Merri Creek

This is a lovely bridge used by cyclists and pedestrians (so watch out!). If you're lucky you'll see a family of ducks paddling.

6. Toilets

Several modern toilets are available here.

7. Good place to spot swans

Take the lower path if you'd like to see black swans, often swimming in this part of the lake.

8. Community planting

Check out the gorgeous native garden at the rock formation. It's a collaboration between local group Friends of Coburg Lake and Surrounds, and Moreland City Council. Please don't trample the plants!

9. Sculpture

Stop and admire the wonderful "Man of the Valley" sculpture - celebrating Coburg's Italian community.

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10. De Chene playground with great flying fox

This playground was built in about 2010 and is great for primary-aged kids. There is a swing set the can accommodate up to eight kids, plus a long, fast flying fox and a plant maze!

11. Barbecue area

If you don't have children you may prefer to picnic or barbecue here, away from the playground area.

12. Fish trap

Fish trap

13. Free gym

There is a range if gym equipment, free to use and suitable for all levels of fitness.

14. Dam wall

Dam wall

15. Shared path (no dogs)

Take care and watch out for cyclists as you have to exit the Reserve and use a shared path along Murray Road. See 'More info' link for off-leash dog parks in Coburg.

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16. Re-enter the Lake Reserve

Take the path back down towards the lake here. it is much more pleasant that walking alongside busy Murray Road.

17. Gaffney Street Playground with rocket

This is a fanstastic playground that was updated just a couple of years ago with a brand new rocket featuring slides of varying length. There is also a great basket swing, monkey bars, toddler swings,

18. Barbeque and picnic tables

This area can be a little exposed on a hot day, but there are plenty of cool spots beneath trees also near the Gaffney palyground.

19. Stage for festivals

But can also make a nice place to hang out in the shade on a hot day.

20. Avenue of Honour

Beautiful shady path, steep in parts. There are information panels explaining that more than 100 trees were planted in memory of local soldiers who died in World War I.