Council Calls On Residents To Prevent Weed And Pest Spread Following Floods

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding North Queenslanders to take simple precautions after the recent flooding event to help stop the spread of weeds and pest animals.

Councillor Kate Milton, Chair of the Environment Sub Group said, “locals and travellers alike should heed warnings about the possible spread of biosecurity matters including dirt, plants and building materials.

"Weed seeds can be spread easily, but so can invasive pests such as Yellow Crazy Ants," she said.

“The floods were a devastating natural disaster, but if we are not careful, we might be faced with a natural disaster of a different kind – an increase and spread of weed infestations and the introduction of new pests,” Cr Milton advised.

Yellow Crazy Ants have already caused significant problems in Townsville and Cairns. These highly invasive ants form massive colonies and pose a serious threat to local wildlife, as they spray formic acid that can blind and kill small animals. They have been known to eliminate insect and bird populations in affected areas.

Council is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings of unusual-looking ants. Yellow Crazy Ants can be transported through building materials, soil, and potted plants.

There are also a number of invasive weeds, including Gamba grass, Siam weed, and Navua sedge. Cr Kate Milton said people need to be aware of them.

Gamba grass has taken hold in several pockets of the Tablelands Regional Council area, and it is a significant concern due to its rapid spread and high flammability. This invasive species has now become an environmental hazard, increasing the risk of large-scale fires. It is already well-established in the Northern Territory, with its presence growing in Far North Queensland.

Another weed is Siam weed, which is spreading through the Herbert River area. Known for its aggressive growth, Siam weed can quickly overtake landscapes if not controlled promptly. While landowners have been managing it near their properties, the recent increase in river activity has raised concerns about its further spread downstream. Experts warn that if left unchecked, Siam weed could become a widespread issue, choking native vegetation and disrupting local ecosystems.

Nauva sedge is another persistent problem, particularly for cattle producers. This highly invasive weed is notorious for its resilience and rapid spread, making it a nightmare for farmers. Once established, it can be challenging to eradicate and can severely impact pasture quality and agricultural productivity.

Council acknowledges that everyone is busy with the clean-up. Still, it is also essential that all landholders remain vigilant for any new infestations that might take hold due to the floods and take action early if they see anything new on recently disturbed parts of their properties.

If you need assistance identifying pest weeds or further information regarding control measures, please call the Council’s Natural Assets team on 07 4776 4607.