Community raises concerns over proposed dog access cuts to beaches and bushland
By Sonia Isaacs
SUNSHINE Coast residents have been granted an additional week to provide feedback on the draft Dog Exercise Area (DEA) Plan and Network Blueprint, following community demand. The consultation period now extends to March 7.
With the number of registered dogs in the region expected to surge to 80,300 by 2046—Sunshine Coast Council says it aims to balance the needs of pet owners, environmental conservation, and community recreation.
The release of the 142-page draft plan has sparked strong community reactions, with concerns raised over proposed off-leash reductions at popular beach access points, and increased restrictions around conservation, nature and bushland reserves.
While the 20-year strategy includes plans to expand fenced Dog Off-Leash Areas (DOLAs), it also suggests limiting off-leash beach access at five popular locations and prohibiting dogs from several sites to protect sensitive environmental and cultural areas, as well as to address compliance and public conflict issues. Beach spots including Currimundi Beach (lake mouth and access points 253-256) and Happy Valley (access points 291 to 293) are proposed future dog free zones.
Beerwah resident and dog owner Marina Ferguson has voiced strong opposition to the plan, submitting objections to Council, particularly regarding the reduction of open spaces. “We are already heavily limited on where we can go, resulting in overcrowding at the few available spaces,” she said. “Dogs need a variety of places to explore, unrestricted, to socialise and learn about their environment.”
Residents have also taken to social media with concerns, including questioning the depth of prior stakeholder engagement.
Council maintains that the plan seeks to enhance dog exercise facilities while protecting the region’s ecosystems. Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez highlighted the importance of preserving sensitive coastal habitats while maintaining sufficient access for dog owners.
“Our draft plan proposes more than 15km of off-leash and 18km of on-leash dog access along our beaches and foreshores—the largest offering of any council in South-East Queensland,” Cr Suarez said. “Protecting these habitats is essential to maintaining the health and biodiversity of our coastal ecosystems.” The proposed network includes three new council-wide facilities, three new district facilities, 13 new local facilities, and upgrades to seven existing DOLAs. Residents can review the draft plan and provide input at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au