A Brief History of the Kingborough Dog Walking Association (KDWA)

The Kingborough Dog Walking Association (KDWA) is an incorporated body, formed in 1998, and currently has over 120 members.

The Association was formed in response to plans by Parks and Wildlife to ban or significantly limit the presence of dogs in the Peter Murrell Reserve in Blackmans Bay.  Subsequent discussions with Parks and Wildlife resulted in a reasonable area of the Reserve being retained for dog walking.

 

The objectives of the KDWA are to:

  • lobby for the retention and enhancement of suitable dog walking areas;
  • promote effective dog control in public places;
  • encourage the formation of other dog walking associations;
  • enhance the image of well controlled dogs as a benefit to society; and
  • assist with the enhancement of dog walking areas.

 

The KDWA has developed cooperative working relationships with the Kingborough and Hobart City Councils, the Parks and Wildlife Service, State Government and various community organisations. The following are some examples of our contribution to the local community:

  • Collaboration with Kingborough Council to establish the Dru Point off lead dog exercise area.

  • Representation on the Peter Murrell Reserve Community Co-Management Group and the Tasmanian Companion Animal Welfare Coalition.

  • Supporting the annual Million Paws Walk and Dogs on the Domain  activities.
  • Organising the Kingborough Pets and Vets in the Park events.
  • Providing information to the public about dog walks and walking areas within the municipality and beyond.
  • Promoting responsible dog ownership to residents and also to others from afar who exercise their dogs in the Kingborough area.
  • Raising awareness of issues regarding the impact of dogs on native flora and fauna, particularly in wetlands and coastal areas;
  • Promoting the benefits of exercise for dogs and their owners;
  • Encouraging dog owners to take pride in their public dog exercise areas and to become active in the maintenance and enhancement of these facilities
  • Participation in the Hobart Christmas Pageant

 

Our membership is mostly drawn from the Kingborough area and we also have, and warmly welcome, members from other municipalities. Full membership is also available to non dog owners and we appreciate their input and presence at our walks and meetings. We arrange monthly dog walks, occasional social functions, and produce a regular newsletter.

Our membership fee is only $15 per person per year and $25 for families.

The larger our membership, the more impact we have – so please join us!

 

Dru Point Bicentennial Park, Margate - Dog Adventure Playground

The off lead exercise area at Dru Point was a proposal of the Kingborough Dog Walking Association and with the support of Kingborough Council was opened in 2005.   The adjacent wetlands are a birdlife sanctuary and the playground, tennis court, picnic and barbeque areas make this an excellent destination for family outings.

A dog agility area is located in the south-western corner of the compound.   These facilities were funded by the KDWA and erected by member’s ‘volunteer labour’.  Facilities include a small bridge, pause table, tunnels and log jumps.  Another feature is the fenced picnic area with two tables and chairs for dogs and walkers to retreat from the action.

 

KDWA Activities

The Association has an active program of walks, promotional and social events.  A walk is scheduled each month.These guided activities generally cater for all fitness levels. 

 

Meetings

KDWA Committee meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month.  All meetings commence at 7:30pm and are held at the Kingston Library.  Refreshments are provided
– Members, guests and visitors are welcome.

 

How to join the KDWA

Simply download the attached membership application form and forward it together with your subscription to the Kingborough Dog Walking Association, PO Box 39, Kingston 7051. You will receive the latest newsletter and introductory information in the mail.

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