In 2024, more than 400 Cooroy residents formally petitioned Noosa Shire Council for a safe, fenced off leash dog park.

Council unanimously received that petition and referred it to the CEO for action.

More than two years later, Cooroy still does not have a fully fenced dog park.

We’re asking Noosa Shire Council to revisit the community’s 2024 request and establish a clear pathway towards providing a safe, fully fenced, dedicated off leash dog park in Cooroy.

Why does Cooroy need one?

Kauri Park is currently designated as an off leash area, but it is not fully fenced.

For many dogs and their owners, an unfenced area simply isn’t a safe or practical option. This includes young dogs, rescue dogs, smaller breeds and dogs that cannot safely exercise off lead in an unenclosed area.

A purpose built fenced facility would give residents somewhere appropriate to exercise and socialise their dogs while supporting responsible dog ownership.

Importantly, this isn’t a facility that would benefit only dog owners.

Providing a dedicated, contained space for off leash exercise can also benefit residents who don’t own dogs by reducing reliance on shared parks, sporting grounds and other community spaces for exercising dogs.

It would also provide clearer separation between off leash dogs and children, wildlife, roads and people who simply don’t want to interact with an unfamiliar dog.

What are we asking Council to do?

We respectfully ask Noosa Shire Council to:

Provide the Cooroy community with an update on the outcome of the 2024 petition and any subsequent investigation into a fenced off leash facility.
Investigate suitable Council owned land in or close to Cooroy for a purpose built, fully fenced off leash dog park.
Alternatively, investigate whether the existing Kauri Park off leash area can be appropriately fenced and upgraded to provide a safe, enclosed facility.
Consult with nearby residents, dog owners and the wider Cooroy community when assessing potential locations and designs.
Consider secure fencing and double gated entry, shade, seating, drinking water and dog waste facilities, with separate areas for smaller and larger dogs where space and budget allow.
Consider wildlife, neighbouring properties, parking, traffic, noise and other legitimate community concerns when determining the most appropriate location.
Provide the community with a clear response about whether a fenced dog park can be delivered and, if so, what steps are required to progress it.
We’re not asking for anything extravagant.

We’re asking for a safe, practical and appropriately located community facility.

We support responsible dog ownership.

We support protecting Cooroy’s wildlife.

We support residents being able to enjoy public spaces without unwanted interactions with off leash dogs.

A well designed, fully fenced dog park can support all three.

The demand has already been demonstrated.

Cooroy asked in 2024. We’re asking again in 2026.

Let’s work together to find a solution.

This petition is intended to be formally presented to Noosa Shire Council.

If you live in Cooroy, the Noosa Hinterland or regularly use Cooroy’s community facilities, please add your name and help demonstrate continued community support for a safe, fully fenced dog park.