Statement about German Shepherd found at Beelbi Creek
Published on 07 September 2026
Updated 23 September 2026
Statement from Fraser Coast Regional Council CEO Mica Martin:
“Fraser Coast Regional Council understands the community concern about the German Shepherd found at Beelbi Creek Road in late August and later euthanised while in Council care.
“We know people spent considerable time searching for the dog and that there was genuine interest in giving him a home. We understand why the outcome has been upsetting.
“The dog was impounded on 21 August 2026 and was euthanised on 1 September 2026, 11 days later.
“No microchip was detected, and formal temperament assessments were undertaken on 30 and 31 August.
“Full temperament assessments generally occur once the required holding period has expired. The minimum holding period is five working days for registered or microchipped animals and three working days for other animals.
“Council’s local laws set these minimum holding periods and are reviewed by the State Government as part of the state interest check process.
“The assessment identified significant aggression towards other dogs, including aggressive lunging, with red flags recorded in nine of the 14 areas assessed.
“Council’s behavioural assessments follow established procedures and involve multiple trained staff, with observations and decisions documented.
“Animal Facility staff have undertaken behavioural assessment training through RSPCA Queensland, and the process was reviewed through an internal audit in 2025.
“That review strengthened documentation and sign-off requirements, including assessment by multiple staff rather than a decision being made by a single officer. Council continually reviews its procedures and makes changes where needed.
“While some people had positive interactions with the dog and there was interest in adopting him, Council must consider an animal’s overall behaviour and whether it can be safely rehomed. The behavioural concerns identified meant that he was not suitable for rehoming.
“The dog was monitored while in Council care and staff did not identify a condition requiring urgent veterinary treatment.
“Our Animal Facility staff work every day to care for animals, reunite them with their owners and find new homes where it is safe to do so. Decisions where that is not possible are difficult and not made lightly.
“Council must always balance the welfare of animals in its care with the safety of people and other animals in the community.”