By Councillor Nathan Tilbury
Since the large off-leash dog park at Fagan Park, Galston was opened in January 2025, it has been a popular new facility for both owners and their dogs.
Prior to becoming operational, there were concerns raised from some members of the community about the Fagan Park Dog Park. As a result, Council has closely monitored the site since it became operational. I am pleased to report that none of the concerns raised have materialized.
Visually the dog park has blended in very nicely and the bird life around the park is thriving, including in the adjacent dam where the water remains uncontaminated. Some park visitors have even reported spotting the occasional pelican in the dam.
Being such a large area the grass within the dog park it has remained in pristine condition, even after more than a year since it opened.
In addition, the unwelcome interactions between an illegally unleased dogs and visitors in Fagan Park have greatly reduced. It seems that since the dog park opened the greater majority dog owners are doing the responsible thing by keeping their hounds securely under their leased control outside the dedicated off-leash area.
Whilst there is a parking fee for visitors most locals avoid this by walking with their dogs into the park. It is also important to note that all funds raised from the parking fees are reinvested into maintaining and enhancing Fagan Park.
Whilst the off-leash area has a good amount of shade available the shaded areas will increase in a few years, once the surrounding landscaped area starts to mature.
The Fagan Park off-leash dog park users are a mix of locals and visitors from outside the area. There are two entrance points making it easily accessible from both the upper and lower carpark areas of Fagan Park.
There are public toilets located very close to the dog park, in the Norther Amercian Garden, and the good news is that these will shortly be upgraded to make them more comfortable to use.
As is the case with all new amenities, Council will continue monitor the dog park and if you have any feedback about how we can further improve the space feel free to contact me directly. 0403 227 560 or [email protected]
Hornsby Council Residents can apply for an annual parking permit for $52 per year. Applications can be made via their website.