Newport Lakes Reserve — Attraction in Melbourne

This place is a gem tucked away in the suburban west. The lakes themselves are lovely and teeming with birdlife. Great place to take kids. The site is a former quarry and the off lead dog park up the back is a capped off landfill site but you couldn't tell that now. Some signage and things are a little rough around the edges but still in good order.

Love taking my dog here as it is a good place for him to socialise with other dogs. But be warned that dogs are not permitted at all (not even on lead) in the eastern side of the park which is a nature reserve (around the lake). There is also a childrens playground to the south and an extensive arboretum containing many indigenous Australian trees and a collection of various North American pines. The park including the arboretum are cared for by a local community group and a ranger is on site daily.

On the southern side there is also the Western Plains Native Plant Nursery. They have a very wide range of natives, manu indemic to the western plains habitat of Victoria. They have a great knowledge of the local environment and a lot of information pamphlets and books on how to create native habitats to attract certain species of birds and wildlife. An excellent...

12km from Melbourne CBD!!!

This reserve is another example of why Melbourne is consistently in Most Liveable Cities list!

Getting there: There is plenty of Public transport options to get to the reserve within about 10 min of walking distance. Driving here is not a big deal either. Newport is the suburb you need to lookout for if you are looking for public transport options.

What to expect: Plentiful nature, mini trail walks of about 20min. The main attraction is the Stone bridge to cross the lake. There are many look out spots as well. Snakes, of course, are to be expected during warmer months. Bird watching options are plenty.

The 'nots': Walking trails are not suitable for mobility hindered given the elevated terrain. Pets not allowed. Feeding birds not allowed. Fishing not allowed.

Parents with kids: Ensure you pack water, snacks and a trash collecting bag with you. Stick to the designated trails during warm months as snakes are aplenty and active. Exercise caution near water, it is quite deep and rocks...

Big area to take dogs for walks have a BBQ- they have few BBQ's and surrounding Bins , Family can have picnic UNDER COVER AREA WITH FEW TABLES - PLAY GROUND 4 kids, Long walks if you live in area and want to daily walks- some uphill areas.

Have toilets that are clean.

Nursery where you can purchase plants(where ENTRY & EXIT is).

Big carpark.

Quite busy for a hidden away place (down side street in Newport) nice and quiet though .not SURE if open all hours HAS GATE SO MAY NOT BE OPEN 24/7..

Down road got Routley's GREAT $8 deal - coffee, egg and bacon roll🍳🦪☕ DELICIOUS. Also has bakery just upload, FEW LOCAL NEWPORT SHOPs- Where buses are and also Newport train station is close by, and seagull"s Pokies next to Vinnie's opshop (have a ATM TO WITHDRAW MONEY- ACROSS FROM STATION), up the road small supermkt, library (in area).

SAT, IN Nice AREA AT 'NEWPORT LAKES'S', ENJOYED QUIET TIME. Not many around. Good place to wind down, or enjoy with family on...