Authorities have placed cameras in a national park after a man was reportedly attacked by a domestic dog.
The local shared his experience on social media recently.
“To the four people walking four dogs off the lead in the national park on trail eight, between Pomona and Cooroy, your dogs are aggressive and a danger to others,” he said.
“I was on my mountain bike and two chased me, with one very aggressive dog biting me. Where do I send my medical bills?”
A Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation spokesperson confirmed an official incident report was lodged and that security and monitoring measures had been implemented as a result.
“We received a formal report of an alleged dog incident in Tewantin National Park,” they said.
“In response, we have installed trail cameras and increased compliance patrols of the area.
“The safety of people in our national parks is our top priority.”
Domestic dogs are not permitted in national parks. On-the-spot fines can be issued.
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The DETSI states, via its website, that dogs can scare or stress native animals with their presence or scent; disturb the peace and quiet for other visitors; and introduce disease and increase the spread of weeds.
The signage at the park’s entrances has been assessed and deemed sufficient.
Sunshine Coast News reached out to the man, who said he preferred to be anonymous after his social media post sparked hundreds of comments, which mostly expressed support for him.
He posted photos of apparent bite marks on his lower leg and told SCN he required multiple visits to a doctor and rounds of antibiotics.
Noosa Council confirmed the man reported the incident to local authorities, who passed the information to the DETSI.
The council reminded dog owners to keep their pets under control.
“Noosa Council continually promotes responsible pet ownership and reminds all dog owners that they may be legally and financially liable for their dogs’ action,” it said.
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Acting local laws manager Clint Irwin said every dog owner had a responsibility to ensure their dogs do not attack people or other animals, or cause fear.
“Dogs must always be under effective control in public, typically by way of a leash,” he said.
“Even in designated off-leash areas, it is still mandatory for owners to maintain effective control over their dogs.
“It’s important the dog is under a person’s continuous supervision and control using voice command.”
