Castlemaine velodrome to become a dog-free zone following injury in July

Dogs will be banned from entering the velodrome at the Wesley Hill Recreation Reserve and Doug Powell Oval from December 1, and must be on-lead at the netball courts.

Dogs will be permitted to be off-lead in other parts of the reserve.

The Mount Alexander Shire Council reviewed its animal restrictions at the recreation reserve after Castlemaine resident Maurice Kennedy was injured while cycling at the velodrome in July.

Mr Kennedy sustained multiple fractures and had to undergo surgery to his shoulder after an off-lead dog crossed the path of his bicycle tires.

He is now back on his bike and riding at the velodrome after months of physiotherapy.

“I’m still hitting the physio very hard,” Mr Kennedy said. 

He queried how the council would ensure compliance of the new regulations.

“Initially signage will be installed advising of the status change for the control of dogs in the area,” a Mount Alexander Shire spokesperson said. 

“Council will focus on education with officers informing residents of the new law and seeking their assistance in meeting the new requirements. 

“We know most dog owners are responsible pet owners however should ongoing problems occur officers will escalate to official warnings and if necessary the issuing of infringement of $159.00.”

Acting sustainable development director Rebecca Stockfeld said the council had considered the safety of recreation reserve users and the needs of pet owners in coming to the decision.

“The velodrome is the only facility of its type in the shire and it is reasonable for cyclists to expect the velodrome is a safe place to ride,” Ms Stockfeld said.

However, she said the council encouraged use of local parks and reserves by dog walkers is and recognised the activity as creating a positive sense of community ‘if conducted in a responsible way’.

Other dog-free zones include Victory Park and the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens playground area.

Dogs are allowed to be walked on-lead at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, Campbells Creek Community Park, and in the Castlemaine and Maldon central business districts.

“Dogs may be walked off lead outside these areas but must be kept under control at all times,” Ms Stockfeld said.

“Dog bags are also available at most facilities to encourage owners to clean up after their pet. Pet owners will face penalties if they don’t do the right thing.”

Council plans to investigate and locate a site for an off-lead dog park by mid-2018.

Plans for an off-lead dog park at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens were scrapped in April after a heritage impact assessment found they posed an ‘unacceptable risk’ to a threatened butterfly population.