Dogs will be banned from all sporting fields at Blue Lake Sports Park, following the Mount Gambier City Council approving its Dog and Cat Management Plan 2024-2028.


The newly adopted plan incorporates extensive feedback provided during two rounds of community consultation and encourages responsible dog and cat ownership throughout the city.


Corporate and Regulatory Services general manager Jane Fetherstonhaugh said the plan addresses challenges identified during the consultation process including dog faeces management, cat management, dogs being off leash when they should not be and dog behaviour.


“In conjunction with their endorsement of the plan, council has determined the provisions in By-Law – No.5 Dogs 2018 regarding dog prohibited areas now apply to all sporting fields and ovals at Blue Lake Sports Park,” she said.


“This follows feedback from the sporting and recreation clubs that use the facilities at this location.


“Unfortunately, we have had reports of ongoing issues with people not picking up after their dogs on the sporting fields within Blue Lake Sports Park, so dogs are no longer permitted in those areas.


Dog owners can still walk their dogs in the park surrounding the playing fields.


“This is in addition to the continuing by-law requirement for dogs to be on leash at any park or reserve during times when sport is being played and prohibited from children’s playgrounds.


“Dog owners are reminded that it is an offence to not carry waste bags when walking their dog, and to not pick up after them.”


Ms Fetherstonhaugh said council was currently undertaking scoping work to develop a fenced dog park at Blue Lake Sports Park.


Dogs under effective control may be exercised off leash in other areas throughout the city including Marist Park, Botanic Park, Hastings Cunningham Reserve, Northumberland Reserve, Frew Park, Don McDonnell Reserve and Corriedale Park.


“Under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 and council by-law, dogs must be under effective control in all public places throughout the city.


Either through physical restraint (on-leash up to two metres long) or by command, in proximity, and able to be seen by the controller,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.


“The plan emphasises the importance of responsible pet ownership.


“Dogs and cats must be microchipped and desexed in accordance with the regulations under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995.


In addition, every dog over three months of age must be registered.


We will focus on community education as part of implementation of the plan.”


Ms Fetherstonhaugh said the plan has been submitted to the Dog and Cat Management Board for approval.


“Council’s determination with regard to on-leash and dog prohibited areas are effective immediately and do not rely on the Dog and Cat Management Board’s approval of the plan,” she said.