The changes follow a trial of on and off lead arrangements at Boat Harbour Beach and ongoing consultation with the local community.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says talking with the community and testing different options has been key to getting the balance right between beach lovers and dog lovers.

“We're a dog loving country but not everyone appreciates having their day at the beach interrupted by a playful dog looking for fun," Mr Palmer said.

"By allowing dogs off-lead at Boat Harbour Beach from May to September, and on-lead outside of peak times from October to April means everyone gets the chance to enjoy the area.

“Off-lead areas provide a recreational space for dogs and their owners to safely interact with each other and other dogs. This helps with social contact and cohesion in our community which provides great benefit for those who involved," he added.

“When you're considering changes to the way people use our fantastic outdoor areas – whether it’s beaches, parks or other open spaces – understanding how different people use the area is key to making good decisions and is why the trial changes and consultation has been so important here,” Mr Palmer said.

The dog exercise area at Boat Harbour Beach will be in place within weeks according to Paul Burton, Community Assets Coordinator and includes:

• dogs allowed on and off-lead at all times during off-peak season (May – September) and
• dogs allowed on lead between 5pm and 9am during peak season (October – April), but prohibited outside of these hours.

“New signs outlining what is and isn’t allowed will be installed in the coming weeks along with new dog bag dispensers. Once this is done, dogs will be welcome on or off-lead at Boat Harbour Beach until the end of September,” Mr Burton said.

“We're hoping that the new rules allow residents to enjoy the benefits of exercising with their dogs without negatively impacting other beach goers.

"We also hope the on-lead access outside of peak times provides locals a safe option to access the existing off-lead area on the southern headland," he added.

The recent review of dog off-lead areas at Anna Bay, Fishermans Bay and Boat Harbour aligns with Port Stephens Councils’ strategic priority to provide civil and community infrastructure to support the community.

View other play areas for pups on Council’s website at portstephens.nsw.gov.au/services/dog-parks