Residents walking their dogs in south Orange are being encouraged to make use of the leash-free areas at Bloomfield Park and to keep their dogs away from the environmentally sensitive Gosling Creek reserve.
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said while both areas are very popular, Bloomfield Park is the place to take your dog for a walk.
HABITAT: The protection offered to waterbirds is the main reason there's a ban on dogs at the Gosling Creek reserve.
"Bloomfield Park, towards the Huntley Road end is around 20 hectares of open spaces, an ideal place for dogs and their owners to get some fresh air and for their pets to socialise," Cr Reg Kidd said. "In contrast, the Gosling Creek Reserve, which runs along Forest Road, is an environmental and wildlife protection area. The lake is a beautiful habitat for waterbirds and native animals."
"That's why dogs are prohibited.
Signage in the area makes it clear that dogs are banned at Gosling Creek Reserve.
"It's disappointing when people choose to ignore those signs."
Orange City Council rangers routinely check to see how dog owners are using parks and recreational areas across the city.
The fine for having a dog in an area where dogs are banned is an on-the-spot fine of $110.
