Decision of Council

At their meeting of 27 November 2023, the Council supported the decision of the Asset Management Committee (20 November 2023, Item 4.80, pg 255) that, based on the results of community engagement, the dog access arrangements at Frank Mitchell Park and Woodville West Reserve are to remain unchanged, as presented to the community in the consultation as 'Option 2'.

You can view the decision report on this proposal, including the consultation outcomes in the Community Engagement Report (in the Appendix), by following the report link below and searching "Dog Access Arrangements" (Ctrl + F") or navigating to the relevant report on page 255.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the consultation process and, in particular, shared concerns or local/personal experiences that were relevant to this investigation and use of these local reserves. We appreciated your honest feedback, understanding of the current situation, and personal suggestions about how the situation could be improved.

So... What Next?

While they don't relate specifically to the options considered as part of this investigation, several suggestions were made by the community for Council to consider. These were detailed in the community consultation outcomes on the project page under 'Other suggestions' (link below). We have met with our animal management team to share these ideas and have asked them to consider any future improvements or initiatives that could be implemented to encourage responsible dog ownership and management, including a review of signage and a period of increased compliance patrols. We have also recommended to the Club to promote these times to make this easier for users of the space.

Additional bins will not be considered given there are already bins available (albeit possibly a short walk to the other end of the reserve) and bins result in an increased, ongoing service provision for the life of the bin. Similarly, no additional dispensers will be provided as this is a volunteer-provided, courtesy service - the responsibility is on dog owners to supply and carry their own bags, and to pick up after them.

Are you a Dog Owner?

We would like to take the opportunity to remind everyone that these reserves are shared public spaces, and it is important that everyone in the community feels comfortable and safe to use and access them. Even if your dog is friendly, keep in mind some individuals could be scared of unfamiliar dogs, recovering from a traumatic event, allergic, or unsteady on their feet. If you are in any doubt about your control over your dog off-lead, or your ability to recall your dog, please keep them on a lead when others are using the space.

Other things to remember:

• Dogs must be on a lead (2m or less), within 5m of a children’s playground (eg in Woodville West Reserve).
• Dogs must be on lead on the soccer pitches (Areas A and B) during sport organised by the FK Beograd Soccer club (e.g. official trainings and games), although we suggest best practice is for you and your dog to vacate that area.
• Dogs may be off lead in the reserves outside of what is specified above, only if they are under effective control (within close proximity to you, in your sight, and you are able to call them back to you on command).
• Be courteous to your neighbours. Some people like a sleep in, or work shifts. Loud barking early in the morning or late in the evening can be disruptive to nearby residents.

Dog owners can access more information about responsible dog ownership, dog behaviour and training, and our shared-access spaces below:

• Animal Management Kit: Your responsibilities, doggy spaces, dog harassment, understanding your dog and what services are available.
• Our Dog Blog: A world of information and articles to educate and support you, and your beloved dog.
• Test your knowledge of dog body language on our free, interactive quiz.
  

We will also share this final update over the coming week, with local residents surrounding the reserve, by letter.