Paw-some news for dog park

Upgrades paw-sible: Member for Eureka Michaela Settle and Moorabool Shire councillors, mayor Ally Munari and Moira Berry, were joined by German shorthaired pointer Bella, and poodle cross Noodle, at Masons Lane Reserve. Photo: SUPPLIED

POOCHES will soon be able to enjoy an upgrade to one of their favourite parks in Moorabool, with hundreds of thousands of dollars committed by the State.

Under the New and Upgraded Dog Parks grant program, Masons Lane Reserve is receiving $400,000.

State Member for Eureka, Michaela Settle, Moorabool Shire mayor, Cr Ally Munari and Cr Moira Berry met at Masons Lane last Wednesday for the announcement.

“Dog parks aren’t just a place for our four-legged friends to run around and play, they’re a community staple where families come together, and people can keep fit,” Ms Settle said.

“This is great for Bacchus Marsh, and even better for the pups.”

The project will undergo community consultation before designs are made final.

However, some features to be considered include designated ball play areas, sand digging pits, agility equipment, drinking fountains, fencing, shelters, bins and shading, as well as other park enhancements such as pathway improvements, landscaping, and lighting.

The State Government’s first pet census revealed the state’s most popular pets are dogs, making up 41 per cent of pet ownership and highlighting the importance of more green open spaces for both pets and owners to enjoy close to home.

The New and Upgraded Dog Parks grant program is providing six new dog parks, and upgrades for 13 existing dog parks, across the state.

State Government officers expect the 19 projects that received funding under this round of the program will be completed by 2026.

Round two will open later this year. For more information, visit environment.vic.gov.au/dog-parks.