Parks and Recreation Assets Officer Rob Owers, and dogs Leo and Teddy sit on the new picnic setting at the dog park.
ROUND OF ‘A-PAWS’: Upgrades to the Forest Hill Dog Park finished last week, which includes concrete, seating, and freshwater connection for users. Pictured: Parks and Recreation Assets Officer Rob Owers, and dogs Leo and Teddy.

Parks & Recreation

Upgrades to Forest Hill Dog Park makes for some very happy pets (and owners)

Published: 05 Apr 2024 2:24pm

A popular spot for Forest Hill residents and their animal companions has undergone a recent transformation with upgrade works reaching completion last week.

Situated in a central spot of the Forest Hill area, the dog park is visited regularly by locals and their pets.

The park now has a new sheltered seating area, connected concrete paths, water bubbler and additional seating.

The works were completed internally by Council crews after receiving a written request from a local dog park user who expressed a desire to see some new facilities.

Signage of Forest Hill Dog Park in front of the gated area.

Parks and Recreation Assets Officer Rob Owers said Council was eager to head the request, with a motivation to complete the upgrade prior to the Easter long weekend.

“The works were completed Wednesday leading up to Easter, so the community had the opportunity to enjoy the newly revamped dog park over the long weekend,” Mr Owers said.

“Council allocated $40,000 to the project from the recreation renewal budget but ended up spending less than the dedicated amount.

“Council crews completed the works which included: six cubic metres of concrete in the form of connecting paths to the existing footpath at the front, and concrete pads for the bubbler, the picnic setting and shelter, as well as an additional park chair.

“Previous feedback from residents also indicated there was a strong desire for access to water for visitors to the park, with a tap and water dish for dogs. Riverina Water helped set this up with the installation of a 25-millimetre water connection.”

Signage of Forest Hill Dog Park in front of the gated area.

Rob Owers also said residents have been delighted with the outcome.

“It’s a beautiful space that has an abundance of healthy grass, shade from native trees, and now fresh water and seating. The spot is sure to be busier than ever now,” Mr Owers said.

“Forest Hill resident Miranda Smith, who initially put in the letter requesting the upgrade, turned up unknowingly just as the works were finishing up.

“She was thrilled to be the first person to use the park, and it was a special moment for everyone involved, including their canine friend.”

To find more information about projects in the area, and receive updates for active projects, head over to our Have Your Say Wagga Wagga website.

Click here for a list of Off Leash areas within the Wagga Wagga City Council LGA.