Whitsunday Regional Council would like to remind dog owners that all dogs must be on a leash in parks, reserves and foreshores within Whitsunday Regional Council boundaries except those that are designated ‘off lead’ areas.
Council’s Local Law in relation to the effective control of dogs requires that a person must not bring or permit an animal to be brought into a public place unless the animal is under the person’s effective control. This is for the safety of your dog and for people enjoying the area. Mayor Andrew Willcox said that he does not want to see someone seriously hurt by way of a dog attack.
“We have had a number of complaints from the public recently and, in light of a recent tragic dog attack fatality down south, urge all dog owners to be responsible for their animal.
“Our Local Laws are in place to ensure the safety of our community and visitors.
“It’s important for dogs to be under effective owner control at all times, including the designated dog off-leash areas” Mayor Willcox said. “If your dog shows any signs of aggression or anti-social behaviour, they are not allowed in dog off-leash areas or in public without being appropriately controlled.”
Council’s website has a list and detailed maps showing the approved dog-off leash areas for the community to refer to. Visit http://www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/413/Dog-off-leash-locations
Residents are reminded that there is a $261 fine for a dog off a lead, for taking a dog into a prohibited area and for not removing and disposing faeces in a sanitary way.
Anyone unsure of their obligations should contact Council’s Local Laws section on 1300 WRC QLD (972 753).
Source: Whitsunday Regional Council
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