Pooches attack possums at public park

DOG owners are allowing their four-legged friends to run wild through the revamped Johnstone Park, according to a regular user of the public space.

Newtown’s Justin Braddy said he had witnessed multiple incidents at the park since October where off-leash dogs were attacking possums and destroying garden beds.

He said the latest instance happened about 11pm on Monday, just days after the park reopened following a $1.85 million overhaul.

“People are letting their dogs attack possums, making a mess, running all over the gardens and scaring the daylights out of people going through the park,” Mr Braddy said.

“With the park recently opened with new works completed, I find it revolting that people would do this.

“People are just so ignorant. It’s really frustrating.”

While dogs are allowed in Johnstone Park, City of Greater Geelong director of planning and development Kelvin Walsh said they were required to be on a leash. “The city was made aware of an issue this week and has scheduled targeted patrols, including after hours,” he said.

Mr Braddy said he often attended Johnstone Park late at night and dogs roaming free was one of several issues after dark. He said he often witnessed people littering and urinating on garden beds.