Off-season beach access for dogs from today

From today, off-season timesharing conditions come into effect at designated dog exercise areas.

For the next six months dogs are allowed on timeshare beaches – on or off leash – at all times. Eurobodalla Council’s manager of environmental services Deb Lenson said Eurobodalla was a dog friendly shire which allowed leashed dogs full access unless signage indicated otherwise.

“Our beaches and parks are for everyone, and our timeshare arrangements at designated beaches helps strike a balance for dog owners and for those who don’t want to interact with dogs,” Ms Lenson said.

“Please remember, there are dog-free beaches in the shire – clearly signed – and dogs are not allowed in National Parks.”

Ms Lenson said off-season timeshare would continue until Sunday 1 November, when peak-season restricts dog’s access to timeshare beaches between 9am and 5pm. She advised to check the signs on the beach, visit Council’s website or call Council on 4474 1000 for the correct information.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been great to see many people out exercising with their pets, but it’s important animals are effectively controlled,” Ms Lenson said.

“No one wants likes a dog jumping over them or their children, and some people can become very frightened.”

During April, Council Rangers have issued 25 warnings to dog owners not adhering to regulations. Four fines of $330 each were issued to people who had been previously warned; two for having a dog in a prohibited area, and two for dogs not under effective control.