Ranger patrols increase on local beaches

Eurobodalla Council rangers are stepping up patrols in preparation for a busy summer.

Of particular focus will be dog timeshare areas, where dogs are now no longer allowed between 9am and 5pm, and areas where dogs are prohibited.

Council’s environmental health and compliance coordinator Nathan Ladmore said Council had already received complaints from residents concerned about people flouting the rules since timeshare arrangements resumed in November.

“Concerns have been raised about Candlagan Creek, Shark Bay and Tomakin Cove Beach where dogs are prohibited, as well as Mystery Bay Beach, which is timeshare,” he said.

“We’ll have extra rangers out and about on local beaches between now and February.

“We’ll be reminding residents and visitors that dogs must always be under effective control – even in off-leash areas – and that picking up your dog’s poo and complying with dog prohibited areas is the law.”

NSW law also states dogs must be on a lead in public places unless otherwise signposted – including on pathways.

The Council recently stencilled two graphic slogans - “Love me, leash me” and “Scoop the poop” on some of the shire’s most popular paths as part of its focus on improving responsible pet ownership.

“We’ll be raising awareness to ensure all dog owners know the rules, which are there so everyone can enjoy our public areas,” Mr Ladmore said.

“The onus is on dog owners to control and confine their animals, and where dog owners disobey the regulations they face being fined.”

For more information on dog exercise areas and beaches visit www.esc.nsw.gov.au/pets or phone Council rangers on 4474 1019.

Above: Eurobodalla Council rangers will be out and about on local beaches this summer. Pictured is ranger Mitchell Stirling with one of the shire’s new on-path stencilled signage that reminds dog walkers to ‘scoop the poop’.