Free dog-waste bags trialled

Winchelsea community member Ange Parish with kelpies Louie and Zeek, and Cr Adrian Schonfelder with white Swiss shepherd Whistler at Winchelsea’s Eastern Reserve. (supplied)

Dispensers that supply free dog waste bags will be installed at a range of popular Surf Coast public reserves to make it easier for owners to clean up after their pets.

Dispensers are being installed as part of a 12-month trial at the following locations:

Banyul Warri Fields Australian Rules Football ovals, soccer and hockey pitches, Torquay

Quay Reserve, Torquay

Spring Creek Reserve, Torquay

Bob Pettitt Reserve, Jan Juc

Bellbrae Reserve

Ellimatta Reserve, Anglesea

Newling Reserve, Moriac

Mount Moriac Recreation Reserve

Stribling Reserve, Lorne

Eastern Reserve, Winchelsea

Barwon River Reserve, Winchelsea

Winchelsea Common

Cr Adrian Schonfelder said dog owners are required to carry waste pick-up bags under local law but the dispensers would provide extra options.

“We love seeing sporting clubs and individuals including dog owners making such good use of our sporting ovals and recreation reserves across the shire,” Cr Schonfelder said.

“But we consistently hear complaints about dog waste at these spaces.

“Cleaning up after dogs and disposing of waste properly in bins is part of being a responsible pet owner using these reserves. By providing dog waste bag dispensers and bags at these

locations we hope to ensure that all users can have pleasant and safe experiences sharing facilities.”

The new dispensers are the first provided by Council. Existing dispensers along coastal reserves are supplied and managed by Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority.

Under Council’s local law, dog owners can face fines for failing to carry pick-up bags, or failing to pick up after their dogs.

People seeking more information can call Council on 52610600 or lodge a request via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/request