The problem has arisen from the conversion to leases from Mineral Claims, which restricted holders to a set number of dogs.

This guideline has not carried over and Council believes this needs to be remedied.

The Director of Planning and Regulatory Services, Matthew Goodwin, reported that cases of dogs attacks on cattle and sheep around the opal fields sporadically pop up from time and time and we want to try and manage this.

“Most people follow the rules, some don’t, but we want to minimise the negative impacts”, said Mr Goodwin.

“More dogs mean more risk”

The recommendation at the October Council meeting was passed and the LPMA is being written to in regards to this matter.

They will be stating that ‘Council believes that the Authority has a duty of care to avoid unnecessary adverse environmental and social outcomes associated with its administration of Western Land Leases’.