Council & Business
15 August, 2025
Pet plan update underway
Public feedback is being invited to help shape how cats and dogs are managed in the Central Goldfields Shire over the next four years.
Council is seeking input from residents on what some of the priority actions and outcomes should be.
Issues that people are able to comment on include:
Wandering or lost dogs
Aggressive dogs in public
Excessive barking
Owners not picking up after their dogs
Dogs on leads
A possible night curfew for cats, and more.
The review is part of a State Government requirement for councils to review their Domestic Animal Management Plans.
Legislation requires each council to outline how they will manage dog and cat issues in their communities.
Council’s manager statutory services Peter Field said domestic animals are typically much loved and cared for.
“Our pets are important as they provide many physical, mental and social benefits,” he said.
“Our plan will aim to provide direction on the council’s services, programs, and policies as we partner with veterinarians and the RSPCA to respond to the needs of pets and community members.
“Currently we maintain a small pound, rehome animals, respond to incidents as required, and in 2026 we are delivering a dog park in partner-ship with the State Government.”
Feedback sessions have been organised as follows:
Sunday, August 17 (10 am to 1 pm): Talbot Farmers Market
Monday, August 18 (2 to 4 pm), Tuesday, August 19 (10 am to noon), Thursday, August 21 (3.30 to 5 pm): Goldfields Shopping Centre, Maryborough
Friday, August 22 from 10 am to 1 pm: Dunolly Bakery
“We’ll be ready and waiting for all your questions regarding animal management, the current programs and service levels, responsible pet ownership, and how council has dealt with issues in the past,” Mr Field said.
For more information, visit: engage.cgoldshire.vic.gov.au/DogsAndCats