General News
19 December, 2025
Old tennis courts to serve a new leash on life
THE Dimboola community has raised the need for a Dog Park in Dimboola at various community consultation sessions, and Hindmarsh Shire Council wants further input from the community to help secure grant funding.
Round 3 of the Tiny Towns Fund has recently opened and will fund a maximum of $50,000 for projects, with applicants required to make a 25 per cent co-contribution.
Hindmarsh Shire Council will be seeking community feedback on a proposal to transform the old tennis courts in Dimboola into a dedicated Dog Park.
This initiative will aim to provide a safe, fenced area where dogs can exercise and socialise, while promoting responsible pet ownership and enhancing community recreation spaces.
The shire detailed several reasons for preferring this site:
• The site is already fenced, which will reduce the overall project cost.
• Conveniently located on the main street of Dimboola – this will be within walking distance for many, including visitors, and will include ample on-street parking.
• Dimboola has another tennis court in great condition and regularly utilised.
• Finally, no cultural heritage management plan will be required – this further reduces the cost of the project.
A Dog Park will provide a secure environment for dogs to play off-leash, which reduces conflicts between dogs and other users in shared spaces.
It is expected to encourage social interaction among residents and visitors, increase town visitation, and promote the local economy.
Typical features in a Dog Park include fencing and secure gates, a grassy area for dogs to run, waste disposal stations, dog drinking stations, and dog agility equipment.
The council’s grant application will be strengthened through demonstrated community support for the project, so completing the Community Support Response Form will help.
The responses received will be included with the application, with the email addresses removed.
Responses can be lodged until 11:59pm on Friday, January 9, 2026.
If the consensus is that the community supports the proposal to convert the old Dimboola tennis courts into a Dog Park, council will proceed with the funding application for Round 3 of the Tiny Towns Fund.
If the consensus is that the community does not support the proposal to convert the old Dimboola tennis courts into a Dog Park, Council will not apply for Tiny Towns funding and will consult further with the community on a suitable location.
Council will be required to apply for future grants to enable the project to go ahead.