Four-Legged Advocates fight for dog-friendly spaces

Words by Kate Hanssen | Photos by Doug Pell

Education is a key component of the association's mission. Cheryl and her committee, run training sessions four times a year during the summer to help local residents understand how to manage their dogs' needs in beach environments. These sessions are part of a broader effort to foster responsible dog ownership and promote understanding between dog owners and other community members.

Cheryl is particularly passionate about creating dedicated spaces for dogs and their owners to socialise and exercise. According to the Bass Coast Shire, residents need at least 2.5 hours of walking each week for good health, and having a dog can encourage this activity. For many elderly residents, walking their dog is a vital source of social interaction. Cheryl mentions that just the other week she witnessed a lovely interaction between two dog owners from vastly different worlds, sharing and exchanging recipes. She says that this is an important part of socialising for a lot of people these days.

The Phillip Island and Bass Coast Dogs Association, now with over 200 members, is working to expand options for dog owners on the island. A small $5 membership fee supports the association's efforts, including research, grant writing, and donations of dog food and supplies to the Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre (PICAL), which are gratefully received.

Cheryl reflects on a day spent scouting potential locations for a new dog park, funded by a small grant. The park would provide a safe space for dogs, particularly small and fragile ones, to exercise. The association is also collaborating with other groups in nearby areas like Wonthaggi, Inverloch, and Sandy Paws group at Coronet Bay to improve facilities for dog owners across the region.

Cheryl's message is clear: change is possible when the community comes together and advocates through the proper channels. The association's Facebook page, Phillip Island & Bass Coast Dog Association, has over 3,000 followers and serves as a hub for information and community engagement. Interested residents can also reach out via email at phillipislanddogs@gmail.com

In a community as vibrant and evolving as Phillip Island, Cheryl Owens and the Phillip Island and Bass Coast Dogs Association are testaments to the power of grassroots advocacy. Cheryl expresses her gratitude for her team and that without them the Association wouldn’t exist. Their efforts remind us that with passion, dedication, and a commitment to doing the right thing, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious community for all.

At Myli - My Community Library, we’re not just about books—we’re about enriching lives through a diverse range of resources and experiences. Myli’s ‘Library of Things’ is a great example of how we’re expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our community. This innovative collection offers more than just traditional library resources; it’s a gateway to new adventures, learning opportunities, and creative projects.

What is the Library of Things?

Our Library of Things offers a curated selection of items beyond traditional books and media. It includes practical gadgets and creative kits designed to enhance your daily life. Whether you want to explore new hobbies, improve your home, or find something special for your next event, you'll find it in our Library of Things.

Explore Our Collection

Our Library of Things offers a wide array of items to suit diverse needs and interests. Here’s a peek at what you can borrow:

• Home & Tech: Make your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly with our Home Energy Efficiency Kits, and potentially save on power bills. Our Portable Induction Cooktops are the perfect way to explore induction cooking. Document your adventures with the GoPro Camera which includes a bike mount, hand grip and dog harness.

• Outdoor & Adventure: Discover the wonders of nature with our Bird Watching Kits, or hit the water with Stand Up Paddle Boards and Surfboards. For those who love a good adventure, our Walking Sticks and Toboggans are perfect outdoor companions.

• Creative & Practical: Unleash your creativity with our compact Overlocker Machine for your sewing projects or use our Kodak Film Scanner to digitise your cherished memories. Organising a party or event? Our cake tins are perfect to help you create intricate and fun cake designs.

• Learning & Fun: Our Phonics Kits are great for early literacy development, while the Thermal Imaging Camera offers a unique way to explore heat patterns and improve your understanding of thermal dynamics.

Why Borrow?

Borrowing from the Library of Things is not only cost-effective but also sustainable. It allows you to try out new items without the commitment of purchasing them. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce waste and make the most of what’s available in your community.

How to Borrow

Getting started is easy! Patrons must complete a Library of Things membership induction session to familiarise themselves with our Library of Things and how it works. Once you’re set up, you can browse our collection and borrow items just like you would with traditional library materials.