By Ellen Anderson<\/p>\n
AFTER years of underuse, Ararat\u2019s Centenary Park could soon be transformed into an \u00a0off-leash dog park.<\/p>\n
Ararat Rural City Council is preparing applications for State Government funding to create a fenced outdoor space dedicated to dogs and their owners as part of a broader initiative to enhance community spaces and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.<\/p>\n
The proposed dog park will be a fenced area where dogs can exercise and socialise safely off-leash.<\/p>\n
Along with offering a place for dogs to play, the park could benefit the community by providing opportunities for residents to connect, fostering improved mental and physical health for dog owners, and creating a safer environment for everyone.<\/p>\n
Council is encouraging the public to take part in a survey to share their thoughts on the proposed project.<\/p>\n
Dog owners like Dianna and Jade Traynor are enthusiastic about the potential changes and the positive impact they believe the park could have on the community.<\/p>\n
“I think this park needs to be utilised for something, and the dog park would be great. The only thing I would object to is (using this land for) housing. If they want to do anything like sports, dog parks, or other community initiatives, I’d be happy,” Dianna Traynor said.<\/p>\n
Dianna also supports the idea of separate areas for large and small dogs, allowing owners to feel more comfortable.<\/p>\n
“There was a question (in the survey) about whether there should be two areas for big and small dogs, and I said yes, because if people are more comfortable, it’s up to the individual.”<\/p>\n
For Dianna, the park has already become a place for connection.<\/p>\n
“I’ve come over here a few times since I stopped working, and I’ve met people I didn\u2019t know before. Eddie has gotten along great with their dogs.”<\/p>\n
“It’s good; you’re meeting people with the same interests.”<\/p>\n
Dianna also suggests that local dog clubs could use the space, adding to its value for the community.<\/p>\n
“You don\u2019t have to worry about the dogs getting on the road or anything,” she said.<\/p>\n
Jade Traynor, Dianna’s daughter, echoed her mother’s sentiments.<\/p>\n
“They need do to something with the park. As long as it\u2019s not used for housing, why not? The amount of people who use this park for dogs is unbelievable.”<\/p>\n
Jade stressed the importance of a large area for the dog park, especially for energetic breeds.<\/p>\n
“Wherever they choose, you want the space. People have border collies, kelpies\u2014they all need to run. You don’t want a small area for energized dogs.”<\/p>\n
The survey for the proposed dog park is open to the public until 5pm this Monday the 16th<\/sup> of September.<\/p>\n Council hopes that community input will help shape the park into a space that meets the needs of local dog owners and promotes a more active, engaged community.<\/p>\n For more information or to participate in the survey, visit https:\/\/engage.ararat.vic.gov.au\/proposed-centenary-park-dog-park or contact Ararat Rural City Council directly on 5355 0200 or email council@ararat.vic.gov.au.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" AFTER years of underuse, Ararat\u2019s Centenary Park could soon be transformed into an \u00a0off-leash dog park.
\nArarat Rural City Council is preparing applications for State Government funding to create a fenced outdoor space dedicated to dogs and their owners as part of a broader initiative to enhance community spaces and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.
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