A biosecurity lockdown will cover Enfield in southwest Sydney from Monday after red fire ants were found at the suburb's freight centre in late September. The zone extends two kilometres from the Enfield intermodal logistics centre. Movement of high-risk items such as turf, mulch, soil, potted plants and heavy equipment will be restricted and must be treated before moving through the zone. NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said daily life would otherwise continue as normal. Further fire ants have not been found since the initial detection.
Producers seeking accreditation or re-accreditation under the Livestock Production Assurance program must now upload or create an On-farm Biosecurity Management Plan for each property linked to their account. The plans show how farmers prevent pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants from entering, spreading within or leaving their property. Producers are advised to contact their industry peak body, which can often provide biosecurity planning information.
Bogong moths that remain in east coast homes are not laying eggs indoors, as they lay them in soil. Adult moths feed on nectar and can leave droppings, which may stain walls, windows and fabrics. Experts advise wiping hard surfaces with warm, soapy water and rinsing fabrics in cold water quickly. Bogong moths are attracted to artificial light, so keeping lights low and opening doors and windows can help them leave. They are not a threat to clothing or vegetables in their adult stage.
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In 1859, pastoralist Thomas Austin released around two dozen wild and domestic rabbits on his estate near Geelong. The animals spread across the continent and grew to plague proportions, damaging pastures and threatening more than 300 native species. Biocontrol viruses, first released by CSIRO scientists in the 1950s, have helped cut numbers, but resistance has developed. Sharp rises in rabbit numbers have recently been reported. Researchers are now developing new virus variants and studying longer-term options, with control methods combined for lasting results.
Mosquitoes can keep people awake, but two simple methods can help find and catch one in a bedroom without spray. The first involves turning off the lights, leaving one small light on, and using a torch to scan walls once the insect lands. The second involves lying down with a phone screen on the chest, since the light and breath can draw the mosquito closer. Other options include plug-in repellers, fans, and a homemade trap made from a plastic bottle.
The Queensland Government held a Regional Biosecurity Forum in Toowoomba to better prepare for emerging pests and diseases. The forum brought together government, industry and community groups to share successful approaches and strengthen cooperation across south and south-west Queensland. Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General Dr Rachel Chay said biosecurity is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the farm gate. The government links stronger biosecurity to its goal of lifting the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030.
Qantas has cancelled its October 10 flight from Rome to Perth after economy passengers complained of bed bug bites. Passengers were offered hotel accommodation and were rebooked on other flights within two days. The airline apologised and said engineers were deep cleaning the aircraft after an issue on a small number of economy seats. An entomology expert said bed bug reactions can be delayed by days or weeks, so an outbreak may have started earlier. He advised travellers to check seams, armrests and seat cushions with a phone torch for insects or droppings.
Invasive red fire ants have been found in a container yard at the Enfield Intermodal Logistics Centre in Strathfield, Sydney. The ants were hidden under concrete near a shipping container. The NSW government has deployed a team to search for more nests over the next two weeks and is urging the public to co-operate. Fire ants have a painful, burning sting that can cause severe allergic reactions. Anyone who suspects fire ants should photograph them from a safe distance and report them. Bite victims should seek medical attention if prone to allergic reactions and apply ice to ease swelling.
A colony of invasive red fire ants has been found at a shipyard in Strathfield, in Sydney's Inner West. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry entomologists located the nest after a monitoring lure was triggered. It was hidden beneath concrete near a shipping container, which officials believe the ants arrived in. The ants are not believed to be linked to the southern Queensland infestation. The NSW Government has deployed a team to search nearby businesses, homes and public sites over two weeks. Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said the aim is to identify and eradicate any spread quickly.
