What’s Happening?
A new off-leash dog area has opened at Skelly Recreation Reserve in Crows Nest, giving local residents a dedicated space to exercise and socialise their pets.
The completed facility includes a formal fenced area where dogs can run, train and play freely. It also creates another outdoor meeting place for residents who regularly visit the reserve with their pets.
Why It Matters?
The new area gives dog owners a secure place where pets can exercise without leaving the enclosure. It also supports responsible dog ownership by separating off-leash activity from other parts of the reserve.
Toowoomba Regional Council Parks and Recreation Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Tim McMahon said the facility would benefit local dog owners and their pets.
“This purpose-built off-leash area gives dog owners a secure and dedicated space where their pets can run and socialise freely,” Councillor McMahon said.
Local Impact
Crows Nest residents now have a local off-leash facility for regular exercise, training and social activity. The fenced layout may also suit owners who feel more comfortable allowing their pets to run within a controlled area.
The project adds another community facility to Skelly Recreation Reserve and gives residents more reasons to spend time outdoors.
“We’re pleased to see this project delivered for the community and encourage residents to make the most of this new community facility,” Councillor McMahon said.
By the Numbers
The new area combines recreation, community use and wildlife protection through several design features.
- Dogs can use the area for four main activities, including exercise, training, play and socialising.
- Two physical wildlife safeguards were included through anti-climb fencing and the removal of access through overhanging tree limbs.
- Council worked with one local organisation, the High Country Koala Action Group, on wildlife awareness signs for the site.
Zoom In
Wildlife protection was considered during the design and construction of the fenced enclosure. Council installed anti-climb flat panels to reduce the chance of koalas and other native animals entering the off-leash area.
“The design of the area has carefully considered the surrounding environment, including the installation of wildlife protection fencing using anti-climb flat panels to reduce the likelihood of koalas and other native species entering the enclosure,” Councillor McMahon said.
Council also checked the trees inside and outside the fence to reduce possible access points for wildlife.
“We’ve also ensured there are no overhanging limbs between trees inside and outside the fenced area, to minimise the risk of animals accessing the space,” he said.
The High Country Koala Action Group also supported the project by working with council on signs that promote local wildlife awareness and responsible use of the facility.
“Council has worked closely with High Country Koala Action Group to install signage that promotes awareness of local wildlife and responsible use of the area,” Councillor McMahon said.
Zoom Out
The Skelly Recreation Reserve project adds to the dog off-leash facilities available across the Toowoomba Region. These areas give owners places where dogs can exercise freely while remaining within designated spaces.
Council provides more information about regional locations through its Dog off-leash areas webpage.
What To Look For Next?
The completed area is now available for regular community use. As more residents begin visiting the site, the facility could become a popular meeting place for local dog owners.
The wildlife signs and protective fencing may also help visitors use the area responsibly while considering the native animals living around the reserve.
**Source: Toowoomba Regional Council
