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Hobart Dog Walking Association Inc (HDWA) was established on 31 May 2006. Our
primary goals are to enhance and extend both on and off-lead dog walking areas,
and to improve the image of dogs (and owners) in terms of behaviour and training.
To these ends we work with local and state authorities, and community groups with
which we share common interests.
We were motivated initially by Hobart City Council's plan to drastically reduce
the permitted dogs off-lead area at Cornelian Bay. A protest movement initiated
by individuals, later HDWA members, notably Lynda Newgrain and Penny Wilson,
gathered some 1800 signatures plus many submissions in opposition, causing HCC
to abandon the proposal. However, long-term engagement with councils and the state
government through a formal body, working alongside local informal groups, was
considered essential to reverse trends towards ever tighter restrictions on dog-walking.
We drew heavily on the successful model of Kingborough Dog Walking Association (KDWA),
formed a few years earlier. However, recognising common interest between Glenorchy
and Hobart dog-walkers, who both use Cornelian Bay and the Domain, we framed our
constitution to cover all municipalities in Greater Hobart yet to form their own
association. This approach also took into account the popularity of beaches and other
areas in Clarence for both eastern and western shore residents, thereby strengthening
resistance to attempts by some Aldermen to close or divide Bellerive Beach.
During 2007, we have made submissions to (i) a review by the state government on dog
control issues; (ii) both Hobart and Clarence Councils' five yearly reviews of their
dog management plans. We are preparing for Glenorchy’s review due in early 2008. In the
process, we have developed positive relationships with all three councils, including
participation in public dog events such as 'Dogs on the Domain' and 'Dogs Day Out'. We
are members of the Tasmanian Animal Companion Welfare Association, run a monthly walks
programme and have established a newsletter. Access to a common website with KDWA is
further evidence of strengthening cooperation. Both associations stand ready to assist
new associations across the state, and welcome the recent formation of the Dodges Ferry Dog Walking Association.
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