Community
26 September, 2024
Let the dogs out
PET owners are calling for an off-leash dog park in Port Douglas as the state government cracks down on dog attacks and introduces steep new fines.
Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels (also known as Paws and Claws) president Michael Kerr, as well as many community members, is urging Douglas Shire Council to address the long overdue issue promptly.
The Queensland Government has made amendments to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 after undertaking a review of the regulated dog provisions following serious attacks by dogs, particularly on people.
The new laws now rolled out through Queensland include steep fines for dog owners who do not control their pets in public. On-the-spot fines have more than doubled from $322 to $806 for owners who fail to control their dogs in a public place, including off-leash areas.
The government has also introduced an increased penalty for declared dangerous or menacing dogs who are exercised off-leash and local governments are responsible for enforcing the amendments.
Mr Kerr said Paws and Claws backed the government’s moves.
“Paws and Claws fully supports the new changes to the act, but it is imperative that (the) council supports the pet owners by giving them the tools to ensure they can fulfil their requirements as responsible pet owners,” he said.
Mr Kerr said a secure off-leash dog park would provide a safe and controlled environment for dogs to exercise and socialise.
He said currently, dog owners had limited options and often relied on public spaces, leading to conflicts with other users and potential risks to both dogs and humans.
“A fenced off-leash area is clearly needed in Port Douglas. There is a high number of dogs registered in this area of the shire and the council needs to offer an option safer than what is currently being provided,” Mr Kerr said
“Establishing a designated and fenced area where dogs can run freely and play off-leash would alleviate these concerns and promote responsible pet ownership,” he said.
“It would also foster a sense of community among dog owners, serving as a meeting point for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and exchange valuable information about responsible pet care.”
Mr Kerr said in 2018/19, the council allocated $145,000 for a dog off-leash area at Hutchings Park at Craiglie.
Mr Kerr said the park was already used by locals exercising their dogs.
“However, construction was halted in March 2019, despite strong support from the community,” he said.
“While the consultation provided by council staff showed an overwhelming support, the mayor at the time – Julia Leu – cited concerns from a majority of nearby residents and those funds were diverted to put tree lights in Macrossan St.
“Since then, no progress has been made in identifying an alternative location for the off-leash dog park.
“This has left dog owners with limited options, including the southern end of Four Mile Beach, which is often not useable during high tide and days when the sand reaches temperatures that can burn the animal’s pads. Recently, even the local football field has installed signs prohibiting dogs from using this fenced area.
“The community now urges the council and councillors to consider the immense benefits of establishing an off-leash dog park and take prompt action in fulfilling this long-overdue project. A design concept for the park was previously completed by the council, and it is time to take this project off the shelf and turn this vision into a reality.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the council acknowledged that a design for an off-leash dog park existed.
“However, this project is not included in the current capital works program for 2024-25,” she said. “In 2019, a resolution was passed to not proceed with the dog park. This decision was influenced by feedback from residents who expressed concerns about its potential impact on the park’s aesthetics.
“While it is recognised that a significant portion of the community supported the development of the dog park, the resolution led to the project’s discontinuation.
“Community members who remain in favour of the off-leash dog park are encouraged to voice their support of the project”.
