Have your say on dog-free beach at Ocean Grove

PART of Ocean Grove’s Main beach has been dog-free for nearly eight months, and people are being encouraged to share their views about how it has gone so far.

The two-year trial, which began on January 1, is in response to community feedback provided to the City of Greater Geelong and Barwon Coast during 2019 and 2020.

This feedback highlighted the need for an area of beach to be set aside as dog-free all year round.

The city’s director of city planning and economy Gareth Smith said the proposed dog-free area covered a stretch of beach just over 800 metres long between the 13W to 15W beach access stairs.

“We want people to have their say and have their voices heard about the trial,” Mr Smith said.

“Feedback from both dog walkers and non-dog walkers on the dog-free trial is encouraged.

“We are interested in people’s views on year one of the trial, which allows dogs on lead during the winter months.

“We will be engaging the community again in 2022 on year two of the trial which will allow for dog-free access at Ocean Grove Main Beach for the entire year.

“The city and Barwon Coast have worked together to engage an independent consultant to develop the community feedback survey.”

He urged everyone to have their say so a comprehensive report could come back to the council and the committee of management for consideration later in 2021.

“Many people who own dogs count them as part of the family and it’s something they are passionate about.

“It’s not just about their dogs, it’s about being out and exercising together.

“We also know that some people want to enjoy a section of the beach that is dog-free.”

Barwon Coast chief executive officer Gary McPike said the committee of management was keen to ensure access for all types of beach users was available.

“The pressures on our coast are changing due to population increase,” Mr McPike said.

“We know from previous community engagement processes and from our day-to-day management of the coast that there are many types of beach users.

“We want to ensure everyone can access the beach and that our natural environment is also protected.

“This trial is about ensuring we get the balance right for Ocean Grove Main Beach.

“We look forward to hearing all the various viewpoints on this trial, which will help us make the best decision on what the controls should be into the future.”

Feedback will close at 5pm on September 26.

For more information, head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/ocean-grove-main-beach-dog-controls-trial or barwoncoast.com.au/dogs-beaches.