Off-leash exercise areas provided for dogs around the Shire

Published on 03 August 2021

Under legislation in the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998 it is the duty of a dog owner to maintain proper responsibility of their pet, particularly when in a public place. The Act also makes it clear that dogs are prohibited from certain public areas and when outside of their owner’s property they must be on a leash within town and village boundaries. Outside of those limits, people can exercise their dog leash free, but at all times they must retain control and not allow dogs to enter paddocks and chase stock.

Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC) Mayor, Councillor Doug Hawkins OAM, said it is recognised that dogs need regular exercise to maintain good health and that Council provides 8 off-leash areas, where people can exercise them. He added that these areas are still subject to certain restrictions that must be respected.

• Currabubula Recreation Ground - Not within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when area is being used for community activities.
• David Taylor Park, Werris Creek - Northern end area – Not on the sporting field or within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when grounds are being used for sporting or community activities.
• First Fleet Memorial Picnic Area, Wallabadah - Not within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when area is being used for community activities.
• Golland Sporting Fields, Quirindi - Car park and green belt area - not on sporting field or within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when grounds are being used for community activities.
• Premer Sports Ground - Not on the sporting field or within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when grounds are being used for sporting or community activities.
• Rose Lee Park, Quirindi - Northern end near creek - not within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when grounds are being used for community activities.
• RSL Park, Quirindi - All of park area available.
• Willow Tree Recreation Ground - Not within 10 metres of buildings or play equipment and not when grounds are being used for community activities.

“When your dog is off-leash you must have effective control. Your dog should respond to your commands and should not disturb or threaten other people or animals.

“Additionally, it is vital that when you are exercising a dog on-leash in the street or when it is off-leash in a designated area that you remove any droppings it may produce. It is important to remember that faecal matter is a is a health risk and capable of spreading the Parvo virus, he said.  

“Have fun when you exercise your dog but always be responsible. Off-leash parks have many benefits for you and your dog. They provide the opportunity for dogs to exercise, socialise with other dogs, enjoy the fresh air, practice training techniques, play games and generally race around and burn off energy,” Councillor Hawkins concluded.

Media contact – Doug Hawkins 0448 092 932.