And if you’re like me, this can mean grabbing the lead and taking the dog for a walk on the beach as the sun rises, or enjoying a weekend stroll around some of our parks and reserves.

In some great news for dog owners, there’s soon to be even more opportunities to let our four-legged friends run free.

New off-leash dog parks are being proposed for Stuart Park in Port Macquarie and Blackbutt Park in Wauchope.

The new parks include fenced areas, seating, shade covers, dog agility equipment and water fountains for dogs and their owners.

To have your say on the proposed park locations and what you’d like to see included, visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/dog-parks.

As a local business owner I have really noticed the impact that growth is having on our region.

It’s creating positive change, and sparking innovation in our business community.

A last weekend’s business awards, it was great to see many local businesses recognised for their achievements and commitment to our community.

From new cafes and restaurants to thriving engineering companies and manufacturers, our local business landscape is definitely changing.

To better gauge the overall condition of our local economy, council is encouraging all business owners to complete this year’s Business Confidence Survey.

This survey is open until Friday, August 31, and provides businesses with an opportunity to connect with council. 

Have your say and be part of the collective local business voice.

If you haven’t already completed the survey, I encourage you to visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/businessconfidencesurvey and make your opinion count.