Dogs prohibited at Woodman Point Beach from 21 October

The City of Cockburn's response to the Cockburn Gazette, about the Cockburn Council decision to close Woodman Point Beach to dogs effective 21 October, 26.10.20 -


Question: Was there ever any consideration given to keeping Woodman Point (beach) as an on-lead dog park?

Answer: The initial suggestion was to keep the area as an on-lead area outside the Fairy Tern nesting season, however an independent Environmental Impact Assessment noted adverse impacts not only for the Fairy Tern, but other bird species, many of which are protected under state and federal laws and international conventions. Many species are migratory, and rely on areas such as Woodman Point as a food source and rest area prior to heading back to the northern hemisphere.

Question: In regards to banning all dogs from the area, was there research to support a complete dog ban would help protect the birds nesting in those areas?

Answer: Yes. An independent Environmental Impact Assessment was undertaken which drew upon other research papers which suggest dogs, whether on or off-lead, can adversely impact bird species.

Question: Will the City consider increasing the number of on-lead parks over the next few years?

Answer: The Animal Management & Exercise Plan identifies a number of new dog parks however it is important to note that all of the City, apart from areas where dogs are prohibited, is actually considered a dog on-lead area. It’s also worth noting that approx. 40 per cent of the City’s coastline is accessible to dogs.