Borough explores new sites for off-leash dog park

THE Borough of Queenscliffe is exploring new sites for a dedicated off-leash dog area, responding to community demand for a space where dogs can roam freely.

As part of the process, residents are invited to have their say on three proposed sites to help the council identify the location that best meets the needs of dog owners and the wider community.

The proposed locations are the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve, the southern end of Citizen Park between Stokes Street and the water tower, and the reserve surrounding the Queenscliff Lonsdale Yacht Club, north of King Street.

The consultation follows a petition, signed by more than 500 people and received by the council in July, calling for Royal Park Oval in Point Lonsdale to be considered for an off-leash dog trial when it is not being used for local sport.

The petition highlighted the limitations of the existing off-leash dog beach at the Narrows, including accessibility challenges and exposure to natural elements, like wind and tides.

The borough has been quick to respond, launching consultation on a dedicated off-leash area for dog owners earlier this month.

Royal Park Oval, however, did not make the list.

Borough mayor Di Rule said the oval was already well-used by local sporting groups, including junior AusKickers and cricketers, as well as families and visitors to the caravan park during the peak season.

“That makes it very difficult to supervise for our officers,” she said, noting the success of the off-leash area “relies on owners having absolute control of their dog”.

While the oval is frequented by dogs, Cr Rule said, local sporting clubs are struggling with the faeces often left behind.

“It’s better to offer an area that’s not in as much use.

“People also have the option on the survey to add in other suggestions…[and] the community also has an option in that survey to say no off-leash dog areas.”

To provide feedback before October 9, head to surveymonkey.com/r/C7Z3YCM