Pet owners have criticised the ban on dogs at the new Moreton Bay Central Lakes Walk in public comments posted after the City of Moreton Bay announced the project.
The 3km lakefront circuit opened on 20 June at the former Petrie Paper Mill site. The project cost about $6 million. It includes lake-edge paths, picnic shelters, landscaped areas and other public facilities near the North Pine River. However, pet dogs are not permitted in the lakes walk area.
City of Moreton Bay links the restriction to the precinct’s sensitive environmental setting and its wildlife, including koalas, possums and birds.
Dog Owners Question Full Ban
Several people criticised the restriction in public comments posted on social media. Some said they would not use the circuit because they could not bring their dogs. Others said they normally kept their pets on leads and were disappointed that leashed dogs were also excluded.
One commenter described the decision as unfriendly to dog owners. Another said her family would miss out on the new lakes walk despite always keeping their dog on a lead.
The comments suggest the restriction may reduce the circuit’s appeal for households that combine daily exercise with walking their pets.
Council announced the dog-free rule before the circuit opened.
Council Points to Sensitive Wildlife Area
City of Moreton Bay describes the lakes precinct as an environmentally sensitive area that supports koalas, possums, birds and other wildlife. However, the council release did not cite or summarise a specific environmental study supporting the restriction. It also did not explain whether leashed access, designated walking times or dog-friendly sections had been considered.
The discussion raises a broader question about how councils balance wildlife protection with demand for pet-friendly recreation.
City of Moreton Bay provides designated dog parks, beaches and exercise areas across the region. Council rules state that dogs are prohibited from conservation parks, reserves and foreshores unless an area has been designated for dog exercise.
Circuit Forms Part of Larger Petrie Precinct
The lakes walk forms part of Moreton Bay Central, within the wider 460-hectare The Mill at Moreton Bay Priority Development Area.
The precinct includes the University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Bay campus and the nearby Mill Water Park and Play Space. It will also include the planned Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre.
The venue is expected to host events during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is also planned to support local sport and community use after the Games.
Mayor Peter Flannery said in June that the walking circuit gave residents an early benefit from development around the future sports centre. He also linked the project to population growth and the need for more public spaces across Moreton Bay.
The online criticism raises the question of whether Council may consider leashed access or review the restriction in future. Clearer information about enforcement and nearby dog-friendly alternatives could also help visitors plan their trips to the precinct.
Published 20-July-2026
