Jamberoo is set to get a dedicated dog park in the next financial year, which means dog owners no longer need to do 20km round trips to Minnamurra, Bombo, Gerringong or Gerroa to legally walk their dogs off-leash. 

This news comes after years of lobbying and advocacy by the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Associations (JVRRA). At their June meeting, Kiama Council Executive’s Jessica Rippon and Joe Gaudiosi confirmed that monies had been allocated for the dog park in the 2023/24 budget. 

A dog park's significance extends beyond our canine well-being; it fosters inclusion, community engagement and improved social welfare. Local resident and JVRRA member Kate Troy says, “It will be a wonderful resource for the community, and a great way to build new relationships between residents and their animals.”

Over the past decade, the community and Council have prepared reports, reviews, and surveys to address concerns specific to the Jamberoo area, such as environmental impacts on native wildlife, flood plains and the risk of being struck by golf balls.

A June 2022 survey led by Kate Troy, collecting 223 responses, showed that 65 per cent of residents would use the dog park a couple of times a day to multiple times per week. The survey also identified preferred locations for a fenced dog park: between the tennis courts and the golf course and two specific areas along Hyams Creek opposite Gibson Crescent and Peace Park. This information was shared with the Council via Councillor Stuart Larkin.

Kate Troy says, “It’s wonderful to be able to now let people know that Council has acknowledged the substantial community interest in such a facility.” 

While the survey investigated the possibility of unfenced dog park areas, Council guidance and community interest lean towards developing a fenced facility. 

Kate adds, “My hope now is the community will have input into the design of the park, to cater for breeds and size.”

The approval of capital work funding for this long-awaited facility represents an achievement stemming from years of persistent efforts. It will create a secure environment for dogs to receive training, exercise, and socialisation and foster a sense of community and wellbeing among Jamberoo dog owners.