Funding Win for Pyrenees Shire Council – Beaufort Dog Haven 

What We’ve Achieved

Pyrenees Shire Council has secured $111,000 through the New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program to deliver the Beaufort Dog Haven, a purpose built, fully fenced dog park designed to enhance liveability for residents and attract travellers stopping in Beaufort.

The project transforms underutilised land into a high-quality recreational space with separate small and large dog areas, accessible paths, shaded seating, water stations, native landscaping and cultural interpretation.

Grantus supported Council with drafting, evidence development and application preparation, ensuring strong alignment with the program’s aims and demonstrating clear community demand, environmental benefits and regional economic uplift.

This investment creates an inclusive space that strengthens social connection, encourages physical activity and enhances the amenity of Beaufort’s public realm.

Funding Context

The New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program provides Victorian councils with funding to deliver high quality, safe and accessible off-leash areas that support active lifestyles and encourage community connection.

Beaufort presented a compelling case: the Shire has more than 2,100 registered dogs, 6,500 vehicles pass Beaufort daily along the Western Highway, and community consultation showed overwhelming support for a dedicated facility.

With a total project cost of $120,000, the $111,000 grant significantly reduces Council’s outlay and enables the rapid delivery of new recreational infrastructure aligned with local health and wellbeing priorities.

Why It Matters

• Provides Beaufort’s first dedicated, fully fenced off-leash dog park
• Responds to 88% community support and rising local demand
• Improves safety by reducing wandering dog incidents and unmanaged off-leash activity
• Enhances wellbeing through increased physical activity and social connection
• Boosts visitor engagement from highway travellers, supporting local businesses
• Strengthens environmental outcomes through native planting and urban greening

About the Project and Next Steps

The Beaufort Dog Haven will be constructed on Council-owned land and designed for year-round use, incorporating weather-resilient surfaces, drought-tolerant native vegetation, shade, seating, paths, hydration points and accessible entry points.

Traditional Owners will be invited to contribute to design and interpretive elements, building cultural connection into the public space.

Council will now progress detailed design, further community engagement, procurement and staged construction. Works are expected to commence following approval of detailed plans and required permits, with completion targeted for 2025.

Grantus’ Role

• Drafting and preparation of the grant application
• Evidence based alignment to program aims
• Integration of community consultation data and supporting strategies
• Risk, need and benefit framing
• Guidance on budget, scope and deliverability
• Strengthening Council’s case with health, wellbeing and liveability outcomes