“IDIOCY posing as bureaucracy” is how one resident describes the council’s approach to dog off-leash areas.
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Public consultation over changes to the Bega Valley Shire Council’s Companion Animals Control Procedure closes today, November 20.
Peter Heard of Eden requested council extend that date, but was told that was not likely.
Mr Heard’s main concern was his belief not enough had been done to inform residents of the proposed changes to dog off-leash areas – and restrictions.
He lives just south of Eden at Brandy Creek Beach, a spot he says is popular with families and elderly due to its seclusion and ease of access.
The area has also been deemed a protected shorebird nesting site – and therefore dogs are prohibited.
However, Mr Heard said due to lax management of the site by the council and wildlife authorities, endangered hooded plovers no longer nest there.
“I’ve been the one trying to protect these birds for years, but it took the council seven years just to put up a barrier [to stop vehicles],” he said this week.
“The dunes are gone because vehicles have been allowed to drive on to the beach and the hooded plovers haven’t returned this year.
“The reason for closing this beach reserve to dog owners is now no longer there,” he said.
“I’ve been living here for 25 years and don’t have trouble with dogs – I have trouble with people.
“The birds aren’t here anymore because of council, not because of dogs.”
Mr Heard said a sign at Brandy Creek notifying visitors of the proposed changes to the animal control area has disappeared and, being “computer illiterate”, he said he is not the only one unlikely to visit the BVSC website to voice their opinion.
There has also been plenty of chatter on dog access to Tathra Beach. While the shorebird nesting area at Mogareeka remains protected, dogs are allowed in the adjacent Lions Park.
The council’s draft procedure also allows dogs on leads to be within 100 metres of the swimming area whenever lifeguards are patrolling – and able to be walked through the public beach area to get there.
The draft procedure – and plenty of resident feedback to it – can be found on the BVSC website under the “Have Your Say” link.
- Your views? ben.smyth@fairfaxmedia.com.au