Sunshine Coast Council is reviewing an influx of submissions ahead of a new plan for dog beaches as a community group pushes to retain long-standing off-leash access.
The draft Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan and Network Blueprint outlines proposed changes to the region’s dog access areas to balance community safety, environmental protection and recreational access.
But a suggested reduction of off-leash space at some beaches has disappointed many, including members of the Stumers Creek Off Leash Dog Beach Association (SCOLDBA).
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli said a one-month ‘have your say’ consultation period attracted 2530 submissions, which were being considered.
“The community feedback is being comprehensively reviewed to identify opportunities for improvements to the draft plan,” she said.
“The review includes all survey responses, informal and formal submissions, risk assessments, research and consideration of social impacts.
“The high level of community engagement in the feedback process demonstrates how important dog exercise areas are to our community.
“Council is committed to ensuring we strike the right balance between creating recreational spaces for dog owners and non-dog owners alike, while maintaining safe, accessible and enjoyable spaces for everyone.
“The plan aims to provide a balanced approach that reflects community values around safety, environmental protection and social inclusion.”
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The final plan is due to be presented to councillors for consideration at an ordinary meeting of council before the end of the year.
The SCOLDBA says more than 6000 people have signed its petitions to try to stop the council from turning a 1km off-leash area into an on-leash area.
Spokesperson Bree Logie said people from Coolum Beach and beyond had utilised the Stumers Creek stretch for more than three decades.
She hoped authorities were “listening closely to the community”.
“We urge decision-makers to approach this issue not only from an infrastructure planning perspective but also with genuine consideration for canine psychology and behaviour, community wellbeing and the everyday experiences of local dog owners,” she said.
“Effective, sustainable outcomes are most likely to arise when local insights and lived experiences are brought into the planning process.”
The plan includes the possible construction of more fenced dog parks around the region, but Ms Logie said open beaches were better for dogs.
“If not appropriately planned or resourced, such facilities can inadvertently lead to behavioural challenges,” she said.
“In contrast, well-established natural off-leash areas like Stumers Creek continue to offer cost-effective, proven benefits, supporting physical activity, social connection, mental wellbeing and a sense of belonging, all of which align with council’s own values and objectives.”
She also bemoaned “limited initial community awareness” surrounding the release of the draft plan.
“With 2500 responses received, representing less than 1 per cent of the Sunshine Coast’s approximately 375,000 residents, it’s clear there is room to broaden community involvement in shaping a plan that could significantly impact the lives of thousands of dog owners,” she said.
Some locals have voiced their support for a reduction of off-leash spaces on beaches via social media, citing a variety of reasons including environmental and safety concerns.
Ms Logie said the SCOLDBA was committed to promoting responsible dog ownership.
“We acknowledge that a small number of dog owners may not always act responsibly. That is why the group was formed, to work collaboratively with council and the community in promoting responsible dog ownership and increased awareness.”
