"Effective Control" is not "Effective"

The only dogs where effective control can be exhibited are Defence Force dogs and formally trained guard dogs. My interpretation of effective control is that the animal will resppond to the command of its handler. There may be some exceptions but, very few.. Dogs are are pack animal and will naturally respond to a number of triggers. Sometimes curiosity, response to what they perceive as a threat or just to ascert their place in the pack. Sadly this behaviour is often threatening to the child, adult or elderley person on the receiving end. With the owner 100 metres down the beach yelling "he wont hurt you" is too little too late.

Children are particularly vulnerable as they may react in a way which incites the dog even more ie. running away or striking out at the dog.

So, using "Effective Control" as a measure to provide a safe community place for adults and children does not work.

I would invite any Council members to visit Laudedale Beach at any time where you will find any number of examples of dogs not under effective control (both within and outside the designated times for on lead/off lead use).

Having said that, I accept that dog owners should also enjoy the amenity of our beach, just not at the expense of all other users.

The prime time for using Lauderdale beach in summer is the morning before the seabreeze starts. Why not change the off lead time to before 8am and after 4pm. That way there is a reasonable window for families with children and non dog lovers to use the beach.

Additional enforcement of the rules is also required if the beach is to be a safe place to use.