Russell Island resident Rudi Schmidt has urged Redland City Council to commit funding and a delivery timeframe for an expansion and safety upgrade of the island’s dog park.
Speaking during public submissions to Council, Mr Schmidt said the facility at the top of the island was an established and heavily used community asset but was no longer fit for purpose.
A Russell Island resident for more than 20 years and administrator of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Dog Lovers Facebook group, which has more than 400 members, Mr Schmidt said the park supported more than pet owners.
“It provides a place where residents can meet, socialise and build connections across different ages and backgrounds,” he said.
“The park encourages people to spend time outdoors and supports interaction between neighbours and friends.”
Mr Schmidt said the park had been designed for a much smaller population, with Russell Island growing from about 2500 residents in 2013 to more than double that figure today.
He raised safety concerns about the entrance, saying it lacked a double-gated entry system used at most dog parks to prevent animals escaping.
Mr Schmidt said dogs could otherwise run directly onto Jackson Road or into the neighbouring children’s playground.
He also called for the fenced area to be enlarged, saying crowding made supervision harder and could increase the risk of conflict between dogs.
Mr Schmidt suggested moving the rear fence into adjoining Council land, creating additional usable space without requiring a completely new facility.
Other requested works included fencing repairs or replacement, drainage improvements, restoration of grassed areas, seating, tables, shade and shelter.
He said about one-third of the existing area became muddy and unusable after rain, with mud carried onto paths, vehicles and into residents’ homes.
Mr Schmidt urged Council to consult local users, prioritise safety works and commit to a funded plan with clear responsibility and a delivery timeframe.
