Improving Doug Denyer and Kevin Hayes Reserves

In May 2025, we consulted with the community to understand how Doug Denyer and Kevin Hayes Reserves are currently used, identify any concerns, and capture preferences for future improvements.

Based off feedback, we discovered:

• Many people care about the space and want to see it improved.
• Some frustration was noted regarding parking, flooding, and maintenance.
• Suggestions reflect a desire for an inclusive, safe space for people of all ages.
• The community is invested in shaping the reserve to meet growing recreational and environmental needs.
• The need for a balanced approach: enhancing usability, protecting the natural character, and improving passive assets.

We have developed a draft improvement plan for the reserves to guide the long-term and pre-planning for the site - and now we want to hear from you! Did we get it right?

View draft improvement plan

Site limitations

Doug Denyer plays an important role in the local drainage network with a flood retarding basin and large Melbourne Water drain separating the space between Doug Denyer and Kevin Hayes Reserve.

Doug Denyer is also a former landfill site. As part of the environmental management, the old landfill site was capped. This cap varies in depth throughout the site. Because of this, there are limitations on what can be installed on site and where facilities can be located. There are also restrictions on where tree planting can take place. Every effort will be made to increase planting and tree canopy cover across the site, in appropriate places.

Have your say

Share your thoughts on the draft improvement plan for Doug Denyer and Kevin Hayes Reserves by completing the online survey.

You can also make submissions by mailing PO Box 1000, Mentone 3194.

This consultation closes on Sunday 16 November.