6 City urges responsible pet ownership to prevent attacks • Mudgeeraba - 16 • Carrara - 16 • Pacific Pines - 16 • Upper Coomera – 16. In addition to attacks, there were 320 aggressive dog-related requests in 2025, including fence rushing and aggressive behaviour on and off leash. The City has launched a new campaign to highlight the consequences of irresponsible dog ownership, with most reported attacks occurring in public spaces when animals are not properly contained or under effective control. Dog attacks remain a serious community safety issue with more than 600 reported to Council in 2025, averaging 54 per month. Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel said responsible dog ownership was key to preventing these serious incidents. “Of the attacks reported to Council last year, a majority occurred outside the home or while the owner was present,” Deputy Mayor Hammel said. “Let’s keep the Gold Coast a safe and enjoyable place to live by ensuring dogs are on a leash in public, safely contained at home, and under voice control and supervision in designated off leash areas. “With many dog attacks still going unreported we urge anyone who experiences an incident to report it immediately for the safety of our community.” The new campaign is aimed at preventing dog attacks and reminding residents of tougher penalties brought on by changes to State law. The campaign ‘One bite can cost your dog’s life - Leash. Contain. Supervise.’ will feature across various channels including TV, YouTube, social media and outdoor advertising. “Owners can face hefty fines and potential jail time for serious attacks, with stricter requirements for regulated dogs involved in repeat incidents,” Deputy Mayor Hammel said. Suburbs with most reported attacks in 2025: • Southport - 33 • Labrador - 30 • Surfers Paradise - 28 • Nerang - 25 • Pimpama - 24 • Palm Beach - 21 • Helensvale - 20 • Coomera - 18 Oxenford Neighbourhood Watch As we move into the middle of the year, June is a timely reminder to pause, reset, and remain mindful of safety within our homes, our streets, and our wider community. Shorter days, cooler evenings, and busier routines can sometimes present opportunities for opportunistic behaviour — which is why awareness and connection remain key. Home safety is always worth revisiting. Please ensure doors and windows are locked, even when you are home, and don’t forget about side gates, garages, and sheds. Outdoor lighting, particularly sensor lights around entry points, remains one of the simplest and most effective deterrents. If you’re planning time away during winter school holidays, consider arranging for a trusted neighbour to collect mail or keep an eye on your property. Personal safety is equally important. When out and about, especially during darker hours, stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation and report anything suspicious to the appropriate authorities. A connected community where neighbours genuinely look out for one another continues to be our strongest line of defence. Neighbourhood Watch thrives when residents come together — not only to share concerns but also to build relationships. A friendly hello, a quick check in, or reporting unusual activity all contribute to making Division 2 a safer and stronger place to live. Next Oxenford Neighbourhood Watch Meeting We are pleased to confirm our next Oxenford Neighbourhood Watch meeting will be held on: • Tuesday 11 August • 7:00pm sharp As always, all residents are welcome to attend. On the night, we’ll be holding raffles with cash ticket sales only, and importantly, 100% of funds raised are reinvested directly back into the local community. These funds support community initiatives and engagement activities that benefit Oxenford residents. Whether you’ve attended before or this will be your first meeting, we’d love to see you there. Your involvement, ideas, and presence truly make a difference. Thank you for continuing to look out for one another and for helping keep Division 2 a safe, supportive, and connected community. Stay safe and take care. Shendelle Area Coordinator – Oxenford Neighbour Watch
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