DECEMBER 5, 2017 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
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Dog attacks surge By Tate Papworth The number of reported dog attacks and ‘rushes’ in Brimbank has rocketed. The municipality recorded a 64 per cent spike in the number of reported incidents in the past financial year. There were 163 dog attacks and rushes across Brimbank, the equivalent of almost one every two days, up from the 99 reported cases for 2015-16. It’s the first major increase of reported incidents in the past five years and comes at a time when the number of registered dogs within Brimbank is at a five-year low. Brimbank council director city development Stuart Menzies said the rise in reported cases is a symptom of greater awareness.
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Get ready to flip your lid
... seven were deemed serious enough to proceed to prosecution
Brimbank burger enthusiasts will have plenty to salivate over this week, with the arrival of The Big Burger Biannual. From December 7 – 10, some of Melbourne’s greatest burger trucks and up-and-coming newbies will come together at Watergardens to celebrate the fine art of flipping patties. More than 15 traders, including popular Fancy Hanks, Limp Brisket and St Burgs, will be in attendance ready to flip burgers and dunk fries for hungry locals. The Big Burger Biannual will also feature a number of unexpected takes on traditional burgers including Mexican, Jamaican, Vietnamese, Korean and Thai, as well as the best vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free burgers. It’s all part of the Hank Marvin Market Tour, which kicked off in St Kilda in September and has been making its way across Victoria. Watergardens’ centre manager Joe Galea said he was excited to host the tour and give locals some new burgers to sample. “We are delighted to welcome the Hank Marvin tour and we can’t wait to enjoy some of the creations,” he said. “The Big Burger Biannual will help us kick-start the festive season celebrations with our Christmas shopping night also taking place on December 7.” The Big Burger Biannual will be located next to Dan Murphy’s at Watergardens Town Centre. Entry is by gold coin donation.
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- Stuart Menzies
“The increase in dog attacks in the last financial year reflects what the council believes is a higher level of reporting of dog attacks and dog rushes by the community,” Mr Menzies said. “The statistics include multiple reports of single incidents, as well as incidents that after investigation are not considered to be an attack or a dog rush. “Of the incidents reported in 2016-17, seven were deemed serious enough to proceed to prosecution by council in the magistrates court.” A council report showed that 129 incidents of dog attack required investigation last year. There were 10,583 dogs registered within Brimbank during the past financial year, a significant drop from the 12,324 registered in 2015-16. Of those registered, 23 are regarded as a restricted breed, one falls into the category of a menacing dog. Mr Menzies said that community safety and the prevention of dog attacks is a priority for the council. “Council welcomes all reports of dog attacks or rushes … even of a minor nature, as part of our commitment to community safety and responsible pet ownership,” he said. At last month’s meeting, the council adopted a new domestic animal management plan which outlines a range of activities the council will undertake over the next four years to promote responsible pet ownership.
Ewen McRae
The Big Burger Biannual is coming to Watergardens this week. (melbourneburgercollective Instagram)
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International Sports Bar
with full Band and Dancers
Friday 22nd December 2017 Doors Open at 6.30pm A Traditional Christmas 2 Course Dinner and Show Pre-Paid Cost: Members $39.00 and Non $42.00
Mon - Thurs 5pm to 6pm Fri - 4pm to 7pm • Sat - 3pm to 6pm Have a drink with your friends
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The Terrace Lounge
7 MELTON HIGHWAY
PH: 9217 9500
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www.taylorslakeshotel.com.au
12373983-DJ49-17 10055349-16