General News
23 May, 2025
Dog attacks on the rise
DOG attacks in the Tablelands Regional Council area are on troubling and on the increase, with officers investigating an average of three a week over the past two years.
The disturbing figures were revealed in chief executive officer Dr Nikola Stepanov’s monthly report to the council in which she lauds the efforts of the six dedicated Local Laws officers.
“They are currently managing an average of 80-100 active Customer Request Management cases at any given time, a testament to their tireless commitment and efficiency,” Dr Stepanov said.
“Their work spans a diverse and challenging range of responsibilities, including responding to increased dog-related complaints, managing issues around homelessness, dealing with abandoned vehicles, addressing overgrown properties, and carrying out daily operations at the TRC Animal Management Facilities at both Albrecht Street and Rocky Creek to name a few.
“In the past two years alone, the Local Laws team have actively investigated an average of three dog attacks per week with reports of attacks increasing.
“This is no small feat and highlights their professionalism, resilience, and ability to stay on top of critical matters while continuing to provide a community-first, compassionate approach, especially when assisting those experiencing homelessness.
“This team truly exemplifies what it means to punch above their weight. Their dedication, teamwork, and focus on community safety and wellbeing are commendable.”
In her monthly report, Dr Stepanov also called for the Federal funding arrangements for local government to change, with TRC supporting efforts by the Local Government Association of Queensland to change the current model.
She said that council was responsible for managing and maintaining just under $900 million of assets, much of which were ageing, and the task was made more difficult by historical funding arrangements.
“Queensland Councils are responsible for $150 billion of infrastructure yet we receive just three cents in every tax dollar,” she said.
“That is, for every $100 of tax paid by Australians, the Federal Government keeps $80, and councils receive only $3.
“This funding model was developed when local government was first introduced in Australia in 1974, when I was three, and leaves local governments with little choice but to raise rates, reduce services, and not fund required maintenance.
The LGAQ was advocating strongly on behalf of Queensland councils, and ultimately the Queensland community for a change to the funding model.
“We strongly support their efforts and stand with them and our Queensland council peers,” Dr Stepanov added.
