Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer has described the council's newest dog park as a valuable community asset and one which would "make a huge difference for a small amount of money".
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Mayor Palmer was on hand last Wednesday, alongside fellow councillor and proud dog owner Jaimie Abbott, to officially open the off-leash dog area at Lancaster Park, located at the intersection of Soldiers Point and Cromarty roads in Soldiers Point.
The work including the fenced area of the park was carried out by Port Stephens Council at a cost of $35,000 in response to a strong community push, including members of the Soldiers Point Community Group.
Lancaster Park off-leash area opening on June 3:
"The council has had a large number of community residents pushing for a dog park for some time, and it's wonderful to see so many people with smiles on their faces and their dogs here today," Mayor Palmer said.
"Off-leash dog areas provide plenty of benefits to both animals and their owners, bringing neighbours together in a social atmosphere while providing exercise and plenty of outdoor activity.
"While the council has a wish list of projects costing millions of dollars, it is nice to be able to create a space which makes a big difference for a relatively small amount of money."
Among the throng of people at the opening were Peter and Kay Smith, with their pooch Pepper, a caboodle, who were ecstatic to see the year-long vision come to fruition.
"This is a great community asset which I am sure will be widely used," Mr Smith said.
Last November, 76-year-old Mr Smith gave a passionate plea through a five minute council public access address, appealing to the councillors the wider community benefits of establishing a dog park.
A former long distance runner, Mr Smith said that he tries to stay fit and healthy through plenty of exercise and a daily dog walk.
"Having an area where dogs can run around and socialise is beneficial to both the animals and owners. It allows for regular exercise and interaction which is good for mental stimulation," Mr Smith said.
In 2014 Port Stephens Council adopted the recommendations of the Animal Companion Act, allowing for dog off-leash parks in areas where there were no existing facilities.
Soldiers Point/Salamander Bay was some years ago identified by the council as an area in need of an off-leash dog park and Lancaster Park was eventually endorsed following the suggestion of a local school student.
