Authorities rush to exterminate nest of invasive fire ants found at Sydney logistics centre

Key points

• Authorities are moving to eradicate a nest of red imported fire ants found at the Enfield Intermodal Centre in Sydney's inner west. Biosecurity officers believe the ants arrived from overseas in a shipping container.
• The nest was treated quickly to stop an infestation from taking hold. Properties within 500 metres of the freight facility will be inspected, and no further ants have been found so far.
• NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said fire ants can be eradicated in the state. The Invasive Species Council warned the pest could cost the economy up to $2 billion a year.