THE FERNY REPORT

by Mark Furner M.P. State Member for Ferny Grove

Stronger Dangerous Dog Laws

One of the responsibilities which falls under my portfolio of Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries is Animal Management.

In December 2021 I met with local governments to discuss animal management related concerns raised by the community, in particular an increase in serious dog attacks being reported across Queensland.

An Animal Management Taskforce was established to consider a range of options to reduce incidents and support improved community safety outcomes. Now, we are seeking the public’s feedback on the proposal to strengthen Queensland’s Dangerous Dog Laws. The proposal includes:

• Imposing new state-wide bans on restricted dog breeds.

• Reviewing penalties for owners of dogs that cause harm.

• Introducing a new offence that includes imprisonment as a maximum penalty for the most serious dog attacks.

• Clarifying when a destruction order must be made for a regulated dog.

• Streamlining external review process for regulated dogs to minimise unnecessary delays experienced by councils and relevant parties.

Consultation closes midnight Thursday 24 August. Take the survey here: https://daf.engagementhub.com.au/dog-laws/ userinfo/dog-laws

Flu vaccine now free for every Queenslander

Influenza (flu) vaccinations will be free to all Queenslanders from July 22nd to August 31st. This initiative comes in response to a significant increase in influenza cases across the state – with a sharp increase in hospitalisations. Vaccination is the best way to reduce the risk of getting flu and the best way of reducing the severity of a flu infection. Getting children vaccinated also helps to stop the infection spread to other people.

Queenslanders can get vaccinated at their local GP, community health clinic or pharmacy. The vaccine is recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months.

Coffee catch ups

Drop in to one of my regular coffee catch ups and have a chat about the things which matter to you. My shout!

• 1 September 8:00am, Hobby Lane, 4/43 Blackwood St, Mitchelton.

• 23 September 8:00am, Coffee On The Way, 120 Ferny Way, Ferny Hills.

• 7 October 8:00am, Mitch and Antler, 62 Suez St, Mitchelton.