Paw-some park opens at Lara

LARA dog tails are wagging with the opening of the town’s new dog park.

The City of Greater Geelong finished the Hovells Creek Reserve facility earlier this month, with the new dog park featuring a dog training area, seating, parking and new trees.

Wadawurrung Traditional Owner and artist Billy-Jay O’Toole created an original piece that is installed on a drinking fountain at the Rennie Street site, in partnership with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Corporation and Barwon Water.

“My artwork depicts the importance of caring for Country to encourage all to look and deeply listen to Country to respect, appreciate and take care of Wadawurrung Country,” Mr O’Toole said.

Geelong councillors said the new dog park was part of the city’s commitment to providing fenced dog parks around the region.

“Dog ownership has boomed across Greater Geelong as the isolation of lockdowns prompted residents to seek canine companionship and welcomed furry friends into their homes as life-long family members,” Windermere Ward councillor Kylie Grzybek said.

“There are nearly 3000 registered dogs and their owners in Lara alone so we expect the park will be very popular.

“I’m proud our new park provides a safe and secure space for our furry friends to run around and play with other pets.”

The Lara facility joins fenced dog parks at Corio and Belmont in Greater Geelong, with new parks proposed at St Albans Park and on the Bellarine.