Dogs on beaches changes in effect today

Changes to dogs on beaches arrangements across the Eurobodalla Shire come into effect today, Wednesday 1 May.

The biggest change is a reduction in the types of dog exercise areas from five to three, being 24-hour off leash, timeshare off leash, and dogs prohibited.

The total number of off leash areas will increase to 29 across the shire. Areas at Corrigans, Sunshine Bay, Wimbie Beach, Circuit Beach, North Rosedale Beach and Moruya Heads will change to 24-hour off leash, while there are also new off leash reserves at Nelligen, Surf Beach (Batemans Bay), Dalmeny and a trial at Hanging Rock sports field in Batemans Bay.

Areas at Corrigans, McKenzies Beach, South Rosedale, North Broulee and Congo Beach will become dogs prohibited areas. Dogs are also prohibited throughout the shire’s National Parks.

The changes follow a comprehensive review of Council’s Companion Animal Management Plan last year, incorporating more than 2,500 responses to a community survey, 140 letters and emails, and feedback from 12 well-attended information stalls held across the shire.

Eurobodalla Council’s Environmental Services Manager Deb Lenson said significant changes were made to the arrangements following the community’s feedback.

“The community were very passionate on both sides about whether dogs should be permitted on beaches, and we knew all along we would not be able to please everyone” she said.

“Our aim was to try and find a balance that is acceptable to dog owners and non-dog owners, with consideration of the environment.”

“New signage is being installed across the shire to reflect the new arrangements and we are investigating ways to clearly highlight changing zones. Council is also considering ways to improve responsible pet ownership.”

A reminder that from today, 1 May, all timeshare dog exercise areas allow for 24 hour access until Thursday 31 October. When the warmer weather returns and beach use increases – 1 May to 30 April – dogs will be prohibited during the day in timeshare areas between 9am to 5pm but permitted on or off leash outside these hours.

Residents and visitors can check out changes to their patch here.