The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River is currently doing a survey about the sufficiency and problems around current dog exercise areas in the Shire.  Unfortunately, the focus seems to be on additional restrictions rather than whether more areas are needed.  Currently, a portion of Gnarabup Beach is the only beach in the area where dogs are officially allowed, and the Shire is proposing some additional restrictions even there. 

There are so many lovely beaches in and around Margaret River, and so many people with dogs, we believe that more exercise areas are needed rather than fewer.  In particular, we believe at least one additional dog-friendly beach is required, which will take pressure off of Gnarabup Beach which is also a popular tourist destination.

Our proposal is that the Shire designate the north portion of Redgate Beach as a dog exercise area.  This leaves the beautiful wide south portion of Redgate for recreational users, which is great for families, boogey boarding, sandcastles and sunbathing.  The north portion of Redgate Beach is separated from the south beach by a large stretch of rocks and boulders, but is still close to the carpark for dog owners.  We believe this beach merits consideration and further study as an additional dog exercise area for the growing southern catchment of the Margaret River region.