More than two dozen dog owners in Ferny Grove are calling on authorities to address significant drainage problems at the popular Ferny Grove Dog Park, which regularly leaves large sections of the community asset unusable and hazardous after rainfall.
The petition, initiated by Suzanne Broderick of Ferny Grove, has gathered 24 signatures since its launch and is open for support until Saturday, 30 August 2025.
It highlights how frequent periods of rain turn the park into a waterlogged and extremely muddy area, preventing dogs from safely enjoying the space and forcing owners to clean their pets extensively or avoid the park entirely.
Community Concerns and Safety Risks
Residents and frequent users of the off-leash park at Arbour Street have voiced serious concerns about the ongoing conditions. They say that the persistent poor drainage makes the park inaccessible or dangerous after wet weather. Beyond the inconvenience, the muddy conditions are also believed to pose potential health and hygiene risks for both dogs and their owners.
A significant worry for the community is the safety aspect, with several incidents reported where dog owners have slipped and fallen due to the wet ground. While no serious injuries have occurred to date, petitioners warn of a considerable risk to local residents if the issue remains unaddressed. The current state of the park also limits the community’s access to a vital recreational space intended for off-leash exercise and socialisation.
Calls for Council Action
Petitioners are formally requesting Brisbane City Council to take specific actions to improve the park’s condition. They are asking Council to assess and upgrade the park’s drainage system to stop waterlogging. Additionally, they suggest Council consider installing gravel in high-traffic zones to reduce mud. Ensuring regular maintenance and monitoring of ground conditions, particularly after wet weather, is also a key request.
The petition states that Ferny Grove Dog Park is a well-loved community asset, and that these improvements would greatly enhance its usability, safety, and overall quality for residents and their dogs. Council is being urged to prioritise this issue and act promptly to ensure the park can be enjoyed throughout the year.
A Popular Community Hub
Ferny Grove Dog Park, often referred to as Arbor Street Park, is a well-known off-leash facility situated at 1200 Samford Road, behind the Ferny Grove Police Station. It is highly valued for its accessibility and free nearby parking. The park spans a spacious 8.24 hectares, providing ample room for dogs to run and play freely within its generally fully fenced boundaries, often featuring double-gated entrances for added security.
The park offers various facilities, including water fountains for hydration, benches and shaded seating areas for owners, and convenient poo bins for waste disposal. Some sources also mention a small agility area and a dog-friendly walking trail.
Despite its popularity as a community hub for dog owners and a venue for events like “Dogs on Patrol,” some visitors note that natural shade can be limited, suggesting earlier visits might be better. It is also noted that the park does not always have designated separate areas for small and large dogs.
Published Date 09-Jun-2025