It was one of the more unusual requests to Nambucca Shire councillors … and certainly an attention-grabbing presentation.
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At the invitation of Gina Bennett, Thursday's council meeting relocated to the front lawn of the chambers to meet her horse Troy and consider the merits and legal ramifications of tethering him on allotments in Nambucca Heads.
Ms Bennett asked permission to use vacant council-owned land to tether Troy using an anti-snagging swivel line and accompanied by a clear sign 'Please do not approach the horse' with her mobile number.
"Troy is very quiet, I would be checking him regularly throughout the day and hopefully the sign would deter kids from approaching him," Gina said.
"He has been insured of $10 million to cover any possible accidents."
She said horses were part of Australia's heritage, as was tethering along roadside verges, especially during times of drought.
"Horses have a big role in our history … and being able to tether Troy would allow me to continue being involved in something I love."
Cr Martin Ballangarry said he was concerned about the safety of kids who could not read the sign.
Council voted for a report on tethering to be prepared by staff.
Back inside, other animal matters unfolded with Richard Milner and Edmund Lourey speaking about the inequities of recent changes to areas allocated for dogs on beaches in Nambucca Heads.
Mr Milner said the new policy had lost sight of common sense, allowing dogs use of 5 kms of beach, including Main Beach, and leaving only two per cent dog free.
"For older people, the beach is one of the safest places to walk but animals jump up … tearing fragile skin," Mr Milner said.
Mr Lourey said beaches had been taken from those who wanted to recreate without dogs.
"Only Nambucca Heads allows dogs on its Main Beach. The regulations should be more people oriented," he said.
Councillors called for a report on the policy with an eye to possible review. Cr Jenvey asked that risks to elderly people be considered.