Mr. Peter Miles

Council's senior ranger, Peter Miles, says the use of the cameras was introduced due to a significant number of parking offences around schools.

"Enforcing parking regulations where the duration of the offence is short has always been problematic," Mr Miles said.

(Bruce Grenfell, Peter Miles, Vacant, John Flanagan)

Council ranger Peter Miles said the issue had been brought to Council's attention by concerned local residents and Berrambool users.

He said it appeared that many dog-owners were under the misconception that it was okay for them to exercise their dogs in the area without a lead.

Mr Miles said the basic rule under the Companion Animals Act is that in all public areas, dogs must be under effective control at all times by means of a leash or something similar.

The only exception in the Merimbula area is the designated ‘off-leash' areas such as those at Tura Beach, the Short Point headland and Main Beach.

As Berrambool is a public area, dogs must be on a lead at all times.

Mr Miles said off-leash areas were clearly signposted to ensure those people who did not want to come into contact with unrestrained dogs were able to avoid those areas.

"Council rangers frequently receive reports from members of the public who have been traumatized by a close canine encounter even though the dog may not have had any malice or aggressive tendencies," he said.

Mr Miles said one of Council's primary objectives was to ensure that residents and visitors were able to enjoy the "fabulous" reserves on offer in the Bega Valley Shire.

He said rangers would continue patrolling reserves throughout the Shire to ensure that was the case.

Bega Valley Shire Council ranger Peter Miles said special enclosures were also required for restricted dogs.

"The changes will also see an increase in penalties for offences," he said.

"There has also been an increase in registration fees for companion animals.
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Mr Miles encouraged restricted breed owners and people who have had dogs declared dangerous from January 13 this year to inquire at council for a copy of the latest changes.

"They are significant changes that will have a cost bearing on owners, particularly in terms of meeting the requirements of enclosures," Mr Miles said.

He said that under the new infringement structure, fines of more than $1,000 are now associated with handling of restricted breeds and dangerous dogs.

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Council ranger Peter Miles reminds motorists that it is an offence to park in a bus zone during the times displayed on the signs.