City aims to simplify dog access rules

THE City of Greater Geelong council has changed rules for dog access between 13th Beach and Collendina to simplify restrictions for owners.

In 2019, Barwon Coast Committee of Management (BCCM) proposed a set of dog control orders on beaches it manages, with almost 600 community members giving feedback.

The council contentiously went against the advice of BCCM and council officers, and voted to allow dogs on-leash at the Ocean Grove main beach during the off-peak period.

BCCM and the council have now agreed in principle to hold two one-year trials to determine the best arrangement for the future.

Cr Trent Sullivan said locals would have the opportunity to share their opinions on these trials.

“Community members will be consulted during the two trials to understand their experience of the rules, and I encourage both dog owners and those who don’t own dogs to have their say.”

The council has also made the following changes to dog zones:

* Dog access times in the summer peak zones between 36W-34W and 27W-15W are extended from 7pm to 9am.

* Dogs are allowed off-leash between 40W and 13th Beach (36W) except for when horses are present.

* Dogs always need to be on a lead 75 metres either side of the 7W marker in Collendina.

BCCM chair Phil Emery said he was pleased with the changes.

“The long-awaited and greatly improved new dog control orders are welcomed by Barwon Coast Committee of Management.

“With ever-increasing numbers of people and dogs using our beaches, our previous dog control orders were clearly in need of an overhaul, being way too complex for many to fully understand.

“There are many different user groups who wish to access and enjoy our beaches and we all need to ensure that our own use doesn’t impact the rights of others.

“It’s all about ‘Sharing our Shores’ respectfully and equitably and we believe these new dog control orders are simpler, fairer and safer for everyone.”