New dog patrols to take the lead for public safety

Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s local law officers are taking the lead in encouraging responsible dog ownership by increasing their presence in public spaces. 

New dog off-leash patrols will soon commence in key areas throughout the region to ensure dog walkers are informed of their obligations for community safety.

Throughout the Cassowary Coast, dogs must be on a leash in public spaces unless they’re in one of the region’s eight designated off-leash areas. 

Cassowary Coast Councillor for Development, Planning and Environment, Jeff Baines said a major objective of the initiative is to help the community understand why leashes are so important.

“Our beaches and parks are for everyone and whilst most people are mindful of dog etiquette while out for a walk, Council receives too many reports of dogs off leash causing distress to community members and other animals,” Cr. Baines said.

“Incidents range from dogs disturbing other animals and people, to full blown attacks which could have been avoided if the dog was on a leash.”

Councillor Baines said the dog patrols will take an informative approach but warned that fines of up to $774 could be issued to people blatantly and repeatedly flaunting the law to the detriment of community safety.

“In 2023 Council responded to more than 1,000 incidents involving animals, 263 being dangerous or menacing dogs.

“Our local law officers are dog lovers and at every opportunity they’ll show appreciation for people being awesome and taking good care of their animals, but we know some people need help being responsible dog owners.”

In February 2024 Council amended its Subordinate Local Laws 2022 to include additional dog off-leash areas following public consultation resulting in eight areas where dogs can legally be off-leash. 

Locations for Cassowary Coast dog off-leash areas can be found on Council’s website at https://www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/dog-off-leash-locations.   

Information about responsible dog ownership and animal regulations in the Cassowary Coast can also be found on Council’s website at https://www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/animal-management. .

For further information about dog patrols please contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

Photo caption: Cr. Jeff Baines and Local Law Officer Ian Morton with Motley and Fluke at the newly signed Wongaling Beach dog off leash area