THE Barry Steggall dog park in Tower Hill was officially opened on Wednesday much to the delight of local pooches.
Mayor Jade Benham and Deputy Mayor Bill Moar were on hand to open the gates and hounds of all shapes and sizes were raring to meet some furry friends.
The accessible space features both a quiet section and a larger off-leash area for families to enjoy with their animals.
The project partly funded by Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) who contributed $80,000 alongside $70,000 from Swan Hill Council also used local contractors giving back to locals in more ways than one.
Mayor Benham said it had become “abundantly clear” during the pandemic that the companionship pets can provide is important.
“We treat our fur babies as part of the family,” she said.
“It’s also an excuse to get outside and get active.”
Rosalyn Waldron comes every second day with her beloved Benji – the 10-year-old (plus four months) Shih Tzu-cross-silky terrier who she’s had since he was seven weeks old.
“He loves it!” Ms Waldron said.
Another local Robyn Robertson said it was one of the best things she had seen in Swan Hill.
She brings 12-month-old Sharri the pugalier here often and explained she yelps on the way in she is so excited.
This is clearly not an isolated case, as many dogs dragged their owners excitedly to the park and greeted newcomers with a whole pack sniff.
Project lead Trish Ficarra said from initial concepts to delivery the development had taken at least two years.
“The turnout (to the opening) has been so good,” Ms Ficarra said.
“We regularly check throughout the week and there is always someone here.
“And it’s accessible for scooters and wheelchairs and walkers so everyone can enjoy.”
Next year stage two of the park will see a water drinking fountain installed in the quiet dog section while more seats, additional shade and agility equipment will be built in the larger area.
