Local Government Authorised Persons Association upcoming events

Dog Behaviour and Handling Workshop (02 Oct 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Attention Animal Management Officers

Friday 2 October 2026 | 09:00 – 17:00 | Westbourne Park Memorial Hall

About the Workshop

Get ready for a full day of learning and hands-on experience at our Dog Behaviour and Handling Workshop, hosted by LG APA and expert Petra Edwards.

Whether you're new to the role or need a refresher, this workshop focuses on canine welfare and your safety, giving you the tools and confidence you need when handling dogs in your role.

The hall opens onto a lawned outdoor area, giving plenty of room for practical handling sessions.

What to Expect

Practical exercises
Real-world techniques
Expert insights

Meet Your Speaker

Petra Edwards, PhD

Certified Applied Animal Behaviourist | BSc (Animal Behaviour) (Hons) | Cert IV TAE

Petra Edwards is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviourist (CAAB) with the Animal Behavior Society and holds a PhD in dog behaviour and welfare. With over 20 years of experience in the dog training and behaviour industry, Petra brings deep expertise and a passion for making positive change.

Currently a Project Officer at the City of Charles Sturt Council, Petra was formerly the Training and Development Manager at RSPCA South Australia, where she helped develop the PAWS Training Program for dog care teams, collaborating closely with staff and volunteers.

Her PhD research explored how dogs experience vet visits, the causes of fear in clinical settings and strategies for reducing stress, further deepening her knowledge in animal behaviour and welfare. Petra is a passionate advocate for humane, science-based training, and she's dedicated to empowering others to improve outcomes for dogs and communities alike.

Event Details

Date: Friday 2 October 2026

Time: 09:00 – 17:00 (Adelaide time)

Venue: Westbourne Park Memorial Hall, 388 Goodwood Road, Cumberland Park

Parking: Free onsite parking, close to public transport

Format: In-person only

Group size: Minimum 6 – Maximum 10

Cost: $350 Members | $600 Non-members

Don't miss this opportunity to build your skills in a safe, supportive environment. Limited spots available, so secure your place now!

We can't wait to see you there.
LG APA Committee

Annual General Meeting (30 Oct 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

✨ You're Invited to the 2026 LGAPA AGM! ✨

LEARN | NETWORK | HAVE YOUR SAY

FREE EVENT

Friday 30 October 2026 09:30 – 16:00 Blackwood Library, 2 Young St, Blackwood SA 5051

Join us for a full day of professional development, inspiration and genuine community connection. This isn't just a meeting. It's where the Authorised Persons community comes together to learn, network and shape the future of LGAPA.

☕ Morning tea and lunch provided

We would absolutely love to see you there!

Guest Speaker

Dr Harry Hobbs

Associate Professor, Faculty of Law & Justice

Sovereign citizens – understanding the challenge

Authorised Persons are increasingly encountering sovereign citizen arguments in the field. Dr Hobbs will unpack where these beliefs come from, how they show up in practice, and what it means for the way we do our work.

⚖️ Legal Case Studies

Our legal experts will walk through real-world case studies, examining key decisions and outcomes in Authorised Persons practice. Practical examples to help you navigate complex scenarios in your own work.

Cimon Burke
Kelledy Jones Lawyers

Paul Kelly and Dale Mazzachi
Norman Waterhouse Lawyers

Why You Should Be There

Networking with your peers — Meet and connect with Authorised Persons from across the state. Build relationships, share experiences and strengthen the bonds that make our community special.

Professional development — Hear from a leading legal academic and experienced practitioners on the issues you face every day.

Meet the Committee and have your say — Vote on important governance decisions and help elect the committee that will lead LGAPA forward. Your voice matters, and we need to hear it.

Before You Come

Want to prepare? Review the governance documents we'll be discussing, including the draft revised Constitution.

Interested in joining the Committee? Submit your nomination before the event.

For all the details, visit our AGM information page.

Questions?

Get in touch with the committee at secretary@lgapa.com.au

Annual Review and Reflect (04 Dec 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Stay tuned!
We’re busy planning the details of this event.
Full details will be released soon — keep an eye on our socials, inbox, and website for updates!