A fire ant treatment blitz has been launched on the Gold Coast with all residents eligible for free eradication kits to help do their bit in the fight against the pests.
It comes as nests continue to pop up across the city, in sporting grounds, parks and even edging close to our beaches.
The Gold Coast treatment blitz will support the National Fire Ant Eradication Program’s new response.
Queensland’s Agriculture Minister Mark Furner says baits will be sent out in the mail.
“It’s important that those who are eligible for free treatment kits order and use them now, to knock down fire ant numbers ahead of eradication treatment in the coming years,” Mr Furner says.
“Gold Coast residents in eligible suburbs should order a free treatment kit whether you have found fire ants or not. Proactive treatment is the best way to get ahead of fire ants.
Those in the southern suburbs of the Gold Coast are in high-priority areas, meaning the National Fire Ant Eradication Program will do this treatment for you.
These residence will hear from the officials in the lead-up to treatment activities commencing via direct mail, advertising and/or a phone call.
“Providing fire ant teams with access to your property or treating fire ants yourself will help protect the Australia we know and love,” Minister Furner says.
“It’s no secret that fire ants can have devastating consequences on our environment, economy, health and outdoor way of life. They have a painful sting and can cause havoc for farmers, and render backyards, playgrounds, and parks unusable.
“Eradicating fire ants will take a whole-of-community approach, from residents to businesses and all levels of government—we must work together.”
Gold Coast Acting Mayor Donna Gates is urging all residents to harness these treatment opportunities whilst they’re on offer.
“Fire ants are a threat to the city’s natural environment. We must protect it right now,” Acting Mayor Gates said.
“Please let fire ant teams in so they can complete their work quickly. If your suburb is in the free self-treatment area, sign up today—the treatment is safe for people and animals, and is effective. Homeowners and tenants are eligible to order a fire ant treatment kit.
“The Gold Coast has been proactive in reporting fire ants and working with the National Program, so let’s continue this momentum and ensure every property receives treatment.
“We need to work together to protect every resident, our thriving tourism and agriculture sectors, native ecosystems, and the incredible natural landscape that makes our city the world-famous destination it is.”
Residents can visit the fire ant website at fireants.org.au/selftreat to find out if they are in an eligible suburb and order their free fire ant treatment kit.
