Off-leash dog areas could be reduced and a 24-hour cat curfew could be enforced in the Macedon Ranges, under plans being considered by council.
During the July 23 council meeting, Macedon Ranges councillors adopted a draft domestic animal management plan and proposed changes to council’s dog and cat order.
Both plans could result in sweeping changes for pet owners across the shire.
The draft animal plan was formed with initial community consultation from April this year which sought feedback on the current plan, and programs and initiatives residents would like to see for dogs and cats.
Council also sought feedback on the introduction of a 24-hour cat curfew, and the potential requirement for all cats in the shire to be desexed, both of which gained community support, according to council.
The changes to the dog and cat order for community consultation were formed from feedback received in 2024 and will result in an overall reduction of off-leash areas across the shire.
In Gisborne, I.R Roberton Reserve and the New Gisborne Sports Precinct will be removed as off-leash areas, while in Woodend, Racecourse Reserve Pony Club will be removed from the list, Campaspe Park will be restricted, and the off-leash area north of Five Mile Creek removed.
In Kyneton, the Campaspe River Walk will be adjusted and Rollinson Reserve will be restricted to the west raceway sections only when events are not in progress.
The changes will also result in14 new waterways added to the list of prohibited areas for pets.
Cr Jennifer Anderson encouraged the community to have their say on the plans.
“We have different thoughts on how our dogs and cats should be managed in the shire … but it’s really important people look at it and if they disagree, they provide feedback,” she said.
Both the draft plan and changes will be available for community consultation from August 1.
