A Sunshine Coast councillor has renewed his opposition to changes to dog access areas, claiming the loss of off-leash spaces has had unintended impacts on people with disabilities and their families.
The Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan introduced a new approach to managing dog exercise areas across beaches, parks, sports fields, dog parks and environmentally sensitive areas.
Division 6 councillor Christian Dickson said the changes reinforced his decision to vote against the plan, particularly those affecting Point Cartwright.
“When council voted to ban dogs in 2023, I was told I was grandstanding, acting for political reasons, upsetting staff, and that the majority of the community wanted dogs removed from the area,” he said.
“But who has really lost out? The very people who rely on these spaces, the people who need connection, companionship and support the most.”
Council said the plan sought to balance dog exercise opportunities with community safety, shared use of public spaces and protection of environmental values.
Under the changes, dogs are no longer permitted on rocky foreshores including Point Cartwright, Point Perry, Point Arkwright, Moffat Headland and Caloundra Headland.
One family affected by the changes is Susan and her son Keoni, who has multiple disabilities.
Susan said visiting the beach to watch dogs play had become an important part of Keoni’s day, providing enjoyment and connection for him and the family’s new puppy.
“I’m really sad that this afternoon was the last time Dad will ride me out to my favourite little beach where I love to sit and watch the doggies run around and chase each other on the beach,” Keoni said.
“I love to count them and watch them play and they make me laugh so much. It’s my favourite time of every day.”
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Keoni said accessibility issues meant some alternative areas were not suitable.
“My friends and I can’t walk down the big stairs at the open beach which is now the only place the doggies can run around and play without a lead,” he said.
“I’m really going to miss this special family time every afternoon and so will our new puppy.”
A Sunshine Coast Council representative said it recognised the importance of beaches and parks for recreation, connection and wellbeing, and acknowledged that changes to familiar places could be difficult.
“The Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan was developed following extensive community consultation, including representatives from disability organisations, First Nations groups, veterinarians, dog education groups and environmental organisations,” a spokesperson said.
“Council ensured a Human Rights Assessment was undertaken as part of the plan’s development, to help assess how changes may affect the needs, rights and interests of all members of the community and were carefully considered as part of the decision-making process.”
In the Point Cartwright area, dogs remain permitted off-leash at all times between Beach Access 198 and 201.
For more information about the changes to local areas, visit council’s webpage.
