Changes to the environmental management plan for the swamp and also to the City of Stirling Dog Laws were considered at a council meeting last Tuesday night.
Councillors agreed to designate Star Swamp Bushland Reserve as a dogs-on-leash area, whereas previously dogs were allowed on the reserve unrestrained.
The A-class reserve in North Beach was declared a Bush Forever site in 2000, owing to its natural, cultural heritage values, and its importance to the community.
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The small marsupials are susceptible to attacks by feral and domestic cats, as well as dogs, and a colony can be wiped out quickly.
Council officers recommended restricting the movements of dogs on the reserve to protect the native species.
The change is not effective immediately because it is subject to a review of the City’s dog laws, involving a public consultation process followed by the determination of the issue by council.
Councillor Bill Stewart was the only councillor to vote against the item, saying that he had never seen dogs behave on the reserve in a destructive manner.
The motion was carried 10-1.
Public consultation on the proposed changes to Stirling’s Dog Laws are expected in a few weeks.