Dogs to timeshare from 1 November

Changes to dogs’ access to designated ‘timeshare’ beaches in the Eurobodalla come into effect from Friday 1 November.

The shire has beaches allowing 24-hour off leash access, beaches where dogs are prohibited, and beaches which allow dogs on a timeshare basis. During the high season – 1 November to 30 April – dogs are prohibited at timeshare beaches during the day between 9am and 5pm but are permitted on or off leash outside these hours.

Eurobodalla Councils environmental services manager Deb Lenson said ranger patrols had increased at the shire’s beaches coming into the summer holiday season and would continue into the new year.

“Over winter, we installed easy-to-understand signs at designated dog exercise areas and beaches, indicating their status as dog-friendly, timeshare or dog-prohibited,” Ms Lenson said. “A key focus will be improving responsible pet ownership through education, and enforcement when appropriate.”

The new signs and increased patrols follow a review of Council’s Companion Animal Management Plan, where changes were made to beach arrangements for dogs following passionate community feedback. Ms Lenson said the new arrangements attempted to balance the needs of dog owners and non-dog owners alike.

“We are working hard to ensure resident and visiting dog owners are taking responsibility for their pets,” she said.

“Dogs must be leashed until they reach off leash areas. When off leash they must remain under control and not bother people or wildlife; that’s common curtesy as not everyone likes dogs. Rangers have the option of fining dog owners who disobey these regulations.”

Ms Lenson Council's website had helpful information on responsible pet ownership, including rules for dogs on beaches and a printable one-page list with the dog access for each of the shire’s beaches.