Zerbes Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

15 Saxonwood Drive, Doncaster East VIC, 3109


Zerbes Reserve has a number of off-leash areas for dogs. On the western side is an oval which has lockable gates and a bin next to the building. This area has toilets.

There is a grassy area next to a row of Monterey Cypress trees at the northern and also a huge grassy area which borders Blackburn Road on one side and a playground on the other side. Have a read of the information boards about the history of this area including the trees.

The Monterey Cypress windbreak and the mature Monterey Pines to be seen in the Zerbes Reserve are a vestige of the area's rural past. Originally planted by the pioneer orchardists to protect their fruit trees from the prevailing winds and storm damage, these wind rows are typical of many such plantings in the Doncaster district and now serve as a visible reminder of the rural heritage.

Farming in the area around Zerbes Reserve commenced in 1853, when a syndicate of three German pioneers bought an area of 320 acres for 960 pounds (anyone trying to buy land or a house in Doncaster East can only sigh with exasperation). In 1880. the land was purchased by Fred Pickering, son of Joseph Pickering who was the first permanent settler in Doncaster and its first postmaster.

In 1865 August Zerbe arrived in Australia from Germany at the age of 25 and later purchased 28 acres of land. With his wife, Ellen, he established an orchard, built a home and raised his family of two sons and five daughters. His son, Frederick inherited the orchard when August died in 1897. In 1932, two years before Frederick's death, he bought the land which is now Zerbes Reserve.

In the 1930s, the Annual Schools Swimming Carnival was held in Frederick's large dam. His brother, August Zerbe (Jnr) served as a Shire Council member for 27 years and was elected as Shire President on five occasions. The Zerbe family were very active in the East Doncaster community and the naming of the Reserve after them is recognition of this.

Now you know the history of the Reserve, respect it and please pick up your dog's poop.

Near the playground is a small conservation area of bushland where dogs must be on-leash.

Map: