A dog park built by community, not just for them

A community petition, 50 volunteers and nine months of working together turned a local idea into the Wattle Grove Community Dog Park.

Residents wanted a safe, enclosed space where dogs could exercise and neighbours could connect. The City of Kalamunda embraced the opportunity to try a different way of delivering it, working alongside local residents and the Ruff & Ready Town Team. Doing Co helped guide the community-led approach, supporting the City and community with advice, resources, planning and preparation, as well as hands-on support during delivery.

The approach focused on making community action easier. A Permission Statement established clear roles, responsibilities and agreed parameters, giving residents the confidence and clarity to turn their ideas into action.

Local people helped shape the park from the outset. A Community Design Day brought residents and dog owners together to explore ideas for the space, with design concepts then shared online for broader input.

When it came time to build, the community rolled up their sleeves. Volunteers painted, built and helped transform the space, reusing existing fencing, seating and materials wherever possible.

Across the project, 50 volunteers contributed 188 hours and more than 200 people took part. The park went from petition to opening in around nine months, with estimated savings of $125,000 compared with traditional delivery.

Since opening, it has welcomed around 100 users each week, creating a place for neighbours to meet and connect. The Ruff & Ready Town Team continues to care for the space, carrying that local involvement beyond opening day.

The project was recognised with a 2026 Local Government Minister’s Place Innovation Award, acknowledging the collaborative and innovative approach taken. The awards are administered by Doing Co with support from the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety.

Wattle Grove shows what becomes possible when local ideas are met with practical support. Residents brought their knowledge, creativity and time. The City helped create the conditions for them to act. Together, they built a place shaped and cared for by the people who use it.

Want to create the conditions for community-led action in your area? Doing Co works with local governments and organisations on community engagement, co-design and placemaking, helping turn shared ideas into practical action. Explore our consulting services and get in touch.