Councillor Column COUNCILLOR KATE MILTON

It is so lovely to be entering ‘the best time of the year’ in North Queensland. The weather is fabulous, and things are starting to dry up.

I thought I would mention a potential biosecurity threat Council has been alerted to, that we should all be aware of and actively monitor.

Avian influenza, more commonly known as bird flu. Although no outbreaks have yet been confirmed in Queensland, migratory birds flying along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway pose a real risk, especially in coastal wetlands and inland water systems such as the Burdekin and Herbert River catchments.

While the virus has primarily affected poultry farms and wild bird populations in southern Australia and overseas, biosecurity experts are warning that North Queensland is not immune. With our mix of backyard poultry, commercial operations, and rich biodiversity of migratory birds, the region could be vulnerable to outbreaks if vigilance slips.

For North Queensland residents, the message is clear: don't panic, but don’t be complacent. Report unusual bird deaths, avoid handling sick wildlife, and follow safe poultry handling practices.

Dr. Emma Keating, says North Queensland’s climate and wildlife diversity make it a “hot zone” for surveillance. “We have contact points between wild waterfowl, domestic poultry, and even native mammals. If the virus makes landfall here, containment will be challenging without swift detection and coordination.”

Poultry producers are on high alert, with the Queensland Department of Agriculture reinforcing biosecurity protocols for farms, hobbyists, and bird sanctuaries. Measures include restricting contact between wild and domestic birds, disinfecting equipment, and monitoring for sudden bird deaths or respiratory symptoms.

Early action matters, so if you see anything unusual or have any concerns, please phone Biosecurity Queensland on 132 523 or 1800 675 888 or contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4600.