Queenscliff dog lovers are campaigning for a more accessible off-leash dog park for residents across the region.
Borough of Queenscliffe received a petition during its July 23 council meeting for an off-leash dog park trial at Point Lonsdale’s Royal Park Oval when it is not used for organised sporting activities.
Bellarine Small Dogs Group submitted the petition with 507 signatures. Member Liz Atkinson said the group would like to hold a three-month trial at the oval.
“We want to do the right thing, and we want to work with council. We’re prepared to do whatever we can to assist,” she said.
“I can’t stress the need for inclusion, and in council’s policies, particularly with the health and well-being plan, there is a priority to get people active and moving.
“It is so important for mental and physical well-being, and we’re encouraged to have a dog as we get older and might lose a partner. So, I’m pleading with council to make it (dog park) formal.
“There’s an urgent need for an off-leash dog park. The (current) off-lead dog park on the beach, known as the dog beach, is not suitable for many people who may be ageing or have mobility issues.”
Council unanimously accepted the petition and will lay it on the table until it is further discussed at the next ordinary meeting expected in August.
