East Fremantle Community Park has implemented new rules requiring dogs to be leashed on WAFL match days, following the installation of permanent fencing around the oval. The Town of East Fremantle council voted unanimously last week to amend the conditions of use within the dog exercise area located in the oval's south-east corner.
Off-Leash Area Restricted on Game Days
The dog exercise area, which opened as an off-leash park in 2024, will remain off-leash except on WAFL match days. The town released the proposed rule change for public comment in April, receiving only one submission that questioned the necessity of the restriction and suggested the risks posed by off-leash dogs would be low.
According to the officer's report, the park experiences increased visitors, temporary infrastructure, and heightened levels of activity on match days. “Allowing dogs to exercise off-lead during these periods presents avoidable safety and crowd-management risks. The restriction is, therefore, intended to provide a clear and consistent control during these defined periods, while maintaining off-lead access at all other times,” it stated.
Prime Viewing Location
Councillor Cliff Collinson noted that the dog exercise area is positioned at a prime game viewing location. “Where that dog exercise area is, is probably the best spot for viewing a WAFL game other than in the grandstand. So if it’s a sunny day and you want to sit out on the outer, that’s the perfect spot to sit,” he said.
Signage will be installed on the oval to inform visitors of the rule change. Other areas where dogs can exercise without a lead include Preston Point Reserve, Henry Jeffery oval, and Upper Wauhop Park.
Permanent Fencing Installed
Permanent fencing will also soon be installed around the park's perimeter, despite the park being redeveloped in 2024 with the expectation that it would not be fenced. WA Football informed the town and the East Fremantle Football Club in February that the fencing was required from this season to meet WAFL safety regulations.
