Turf War Erupts Between Oyster Bay and Como Over Dog Poo Bin Bag Diplomacy

Blake Curran | Investigative Journalist | Sutherland Shier Gazette

8 January 2025

Tensions have reached boiling point between the usually peaceful suburbs of Oyster Bay and Como, as residents clash over the contentious issue of dog poo bag disposal along shared walking tracks. What began as passive-aggressive notes on bin lids has escalated into a full-blown suburban standoff now dubbed the "Poo Bag Proxy War."

The conflict stems from dog owners in Oyster Bay allegedly offloading used dog poo bags into Como residents’ bins on weekly walks, triggering outrage. “It’s environmental disrespect and personal violation,” fumed Sharon Holt, a Como resident, who claims her green bin was “hijacked” by six mystery bags last Thursday.

“This is my bin — not a community compost centre for Oyster Bay's Labradoodles.”

Oyster Bay locals hit back, calling the accusations “bin bias.” “We’re doing the right thing by binning it!” argued Gavin Marsh, an Oyster Bay dog walker. “Would they prefer we launch it into the Woronora River like some kind of barbarian?”

Efforts at mediation have failed, with attempts to install a shared “Dog Waste Peace Station” along the walking track derailed after locals debated which suburb should fund the bin liners.

Reports suggest vigilante patrols have formed on both sides, with Como residents conducting late-night "bin stakeouts," while Oyster Bay walkers have allegedly started using decoy bags filled with harmless mulch to confuse the opposition.

Local council has urged calm but admitted the situation has "escalated faster than expected." Talks of introducing “Bin Borders” with checkpoint-style waste inspections are gaining traction. "We just want to walk our dogs in peace,” sighed dog owner Trina Bell, “but if one more person accuses me of a 'poo-bag drop-and-run,' I’m bringing security cameras.”