A fifth enclosed dog park has opened in the City of Cockburn, with dog owners and their furry friends keen to be in the great outdoors at the new Hammond Park facility this festive season.
With the support of Hammond Park Community Association, Baler Court dog park was built with an $80,000 (excluding GST) grant from the State Government’s Local Projects Local Jobs program via the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, plus a further $130,000 from the City of Cockburn.
Funding for this dog park was originally earmarked for Aubin Grove in Kwinana MLA Roger Cook’s electorate but a lack of community support led to Cockburn Council suggesting Baler Court in Hammond Park, which was approved by Mr Cook.
Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett said it was great to see a further dog park open in Cockburn reflecting the community’s expectation of facilities to suit both small and large dogs and their exercise needs.
“We know dog owners are seeking out these new facilities and often travelling large distances,” Mayor Howlett said.
“Having a purpose built facility, literally on your doorstep, is an added bonus for our dog lovers and of course their pets.”
Kwinana MLA Roger Cook said Hammond Park residents had sent submissions to the City of Cockburn requesting a designated area and fenced playground for dogs in their locality.
“In collaboration with the State Government and the City, the opening of the new dog park in Hammond Park will provide a safe area for canine pets to be active, exercise and socialize,” Mr Cook said.
“Dog parks have become increasingly popular as they allow a secure, fenced off area to be used exclusively for canine pets to exercise, train and socialise.
“Owners of dogs who use these parks also socialise with each other, get to know their neighbours and other dog lovers, and often walk and exercise themselves.
“These benefits not only increase physical activity for the dogs and improve their behaviour, but also show very positive effects for the community and regular users of dog parks who experience improved physical and mental wellbeing.”
Hammond Park Community Association Chairperson Emma Horsefield said residents of Hammond Park and surrounding suburbs were really happy with the addition of the new dog park at Baler court.
“It’s a fabulous way to bring our communities together, and has been a hit already with many members of the community using the facilities,” Mrs Horsefield said.
“It’s a great way to use the space and having an off- leash area is perfect.
“We’d like to say thanks to the City of Cockburn, Roger Cook & the Aubin Grove Community Association who all worked together to add this addition to the Hammond Park community.”
The park includes a fenced 1,600sqm area for small dogs, and a 2,000sqm area for large dogs with a higher fence, and multiple access gates and agility equipment throughout.
A drink fountain with dog bowl is located in each fenced area and the park includes grassed areas and mulched gardens.
The off-lead park is a close replica of the Briggs Street dog park in South Lake which opened in August thanks to an $80,000 (excluding GST) Local Projects Local Jobs grant, plus $106,000 from the City of Cockburn.