Councillor Column
Councillor Kate Milton

Managing invasive species is one of the most important responsibilities we share as a community, particularly here in Hinchinbrook, where agriculture, natural ecosystems, and livelihoods are closely connected.

One weed that continues to pose a serious threat across our region is Navua sedge.

Navua sedge is an aggressive invasive plant that spreads rapidly and outcompetes pasture and crops, reducing productivity.

If left unmanaged, it can dominate entire paddocks, making land difficult to use and significantly increasing long‑term control costs.

Council’s “no slash zones” are a key part of our strategy to control this weed.

The name “no slash zone” doesn’t mean that the area doesn’t get slashed; it simply means that Council workers or contractors won’t be slashing the marked area. The landholder who has applied for the zone is responsible for mowing the area to reduce the spread of Navua sedge.

Grass on roadsides needs to be kept to a manageable height for safety and visibility. This also helps with road maintenance. It has been extremely wet this season, and mowing in some areas has been difficult. Some no slash zones have been kept short and tidy; however, others haven’t. If you have a no slash zone that you are responsible for, I hope the weather fines up soon and you get the opportunity to tidy it up. If you are no longer able to maintain your zone, please let Council know and it will be deregistered and maintained by Council.

By maintaining designated no slash zones, landholders play a critical role in breaking the cycle of spread. These areas are identified to allow for more effective control methods, such as targeted herbicide application and careful monitoring. Respecting these zones helps protect clean areas, reduces reinfestation, and supports a coordinated, region‑wide approach to weed management.

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