Due to ongoing community feedback, we revisited the two most-preferred site locations for a dog exercise area in Pelican Waters.

We invited our community to provide input into the investigation for a Dog Exercise Area (DEA) in either Judy Henzell Park or Scribbly Gum Park, Pelican Waters. Thank you to those who provided feedback on the proposed Pelican Waters Dog Exercise Area between 23 August and 23 September 2024.

We are committed to providing high quality open space that supports active and healthy communities.

Sunshine Coast Council invited feedback from our community to further gauge a preferred location for a fenced dog exercise area for the Pelican Waters community. We received 242 responses from an even mix of residents across the locality.

Here is what you told us:

• Overall, 81 per cent of respondents support a fenced dog exercise area for Pelican Waters. There was a mix of feedback, with both support and concerns for both locations suggested.
• Our community values open lawn areas for their dog to run as the most important characteristic of a successful dog exercise area.
• Shade and accessibility are also important features of a dog exercise area.
• While the possibility of inadequate car parking was a common concern for nearby residents, most respondents felt that car parking was the least important aspect compared to other preferred characteristics for a successful dog exercise area.
• From the overall survey results, Scribbly Gum Park was demonstrated to be more valued as a park for active recreation. It is well utilised by the respondents that live nearby.
• Judy Henzell Park receives less visitation from its surrounding residents but is highly valued for its natural leafy character and quiet atmosphere.
• For the residents that responded to the survey, both parks are primarily used for walking their dogs on lead, and the Scribbly Gum Park playground rates as popular.

Additional feedback on a dog exercise area for Pelican Waters that related to both parks:

• Some respondents were concerned about the impact of insufficient car parking, while others conveyed that they would most likely walk to the facility.
• The importance of protecting trees, especially in Judy Henzell Park, was a common concern. Both Council and our community place a high value on our urban forest. We would ensure that existing trees are retained and adequately protected from impact.
• Noise and responsible pet ownership are common concerns.

The survey feedback identified that there is stronger support for a fenced dog exercise area to be located in Scribbly Gum Park.

These results reflect the views and values of the 242 people that participated in the community engagement.

Based on the outcome of additional site investigations as well as the survey findings, we have designed a dog exercise area at Scribbly Gum Park.

Feedback from our community last year highlighted that you value open lawn areas for your dog to run, as the most important characteristic of a successful dog exercise area. Shade and accessibility are also important features of a dog exercise area.

The design includes a secure 1800m² dog enclosure with two twin-gated entries, with one connecting to the existing pathway network, and a gated maintenance access.

We have improved the park drainage which will help keep the park accessible after wet periods, including a new pathway with a drainage crossing which will improve access to a new seating area and open turfed area.

Other features to create a comfortable and functional space for you and your furry friends include:

• existing shaded seating area
• newly planted shade trees
• a dog drinking station with a tap and bowl.

Construction is scheduled to start on Monday 2 June 2025. We anticipate completion by mid-July, weather and site conditions permitting.

Dog exercise areas (DEAs) are activity spaces provided to promote social and physical health for dogs and their owners. DEAs may be fenced or unfenced and can include the following, depending on the site:

• 1.2 metre high, black chain wire fence with two self-closing access gates (if fenced)
• catering for dogs of various sizes
• park shelter and shaded seating
• water tap with dog bowl
• concrete access paths
• dog bag dispensers and rubbish bin/signage
• shade tree planting

Please see PDF for a DEA design example.

Additional off-street parking is not being considered; facility users will need to park on-street or be within walking distance of the DEA.

Existing nearby DEAs

There are seven DEAs within a 10-minute drive of Pelican Waters:

• Woorim Park, Golden Beach
• Aroona Park, Aroona
• Ridgehaven Park, Aroona
• Beach access 276 to 281, Shelley Beach
• Coochin Park, Dicky Beach
• Little Mountain Common, Little Mountain
• Baringa Forest Park, Baringa