Following a period of community consultation, Hale School has informed locals that its grounds will remain open as long as dog owners act responsibly.
In July, signs were placed around the periphery of the school inviting feedback on a proposal to close the campus to visitors. This was due to ongoing safety issues, particularly involving dogs off leads. The number of dogs being exercised off leash has increased markedly since Covid and resulted in a number of incidents of aggression and injury, as well as owners not cleaning up after their dogs. Of particular concern is the safety of younger students in the junior school and the junior boarding house (Brine House).
Written feedback was received from almost 300 local residents who overwhelmingly valued access to the school grounds for themselves, their family and their dogs. Many also shared concerns for dogs off lead.
A public forum was held in September to provide information on the School’s decision moving forward. About 80 people attended to hear the Headmaster, Dean Dell’Oro provide more of the background, an overview of the feedback and then a compromise position. Hale School will remain open to members of the local community but they also need to do the right thing. In particular:
- Access the ovals via Hale Road and Williamstown Road. Access will be prohibited at entrances near the Junior School (Glenelg Avenue, Unwin Avenue and Cobb Street) to enhance safety for our younger students.
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times. Please encourage others to do the same.
- Pick up after your dog.
- Respectfully enjoy the grounds.
Attendees were grateful for the opportunity to provide feedback and were generally understanding of the School’s position.
Mr Dell’Oro called on the community to help enforce the rules. Any incidents of non-compliance or suspicious behaviour can be reported to community@hale.wa.edu.au.
“We really value the support of our local community and appreciate that they enjoy using our grounds for leisure after hours,” Mr Dell’Oro said. “However, we need to balance that with our duty of care to our students and staff – we are a school after all, not a dog park. My best hope is that this process has brought the community together, enhanced awareness of the issues and will lead to a better experience for all users.”
The bushland outside the perimeter of the school can still be used by dogs off lead. For dedicated dog parks, please visit your local council website.
Hale School will continue to monitor the situation.
