Darling Downs Environment Council
MEDIA RELEASE
Urgent Action Needed After Deadly Fire Ants Found in the Murray Darling Basin
Monday 22 April 2024
The Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) is gravely concerned by the recent detection of multiple new fire ant nests in Oakey, located 29 km west of Toowoomba in Queensland. The discovery of these nests within the Murray-Darling Basin catchment area underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of fire ant eradication funding by Prime Minister Albanese.
Ahri Tallon, Coordinator of the Darling Downs Environment Council, expressed deep concern regarding the latest fire ant outbreak: "The presence of fire ant nests outside the established eradication zone, particularly within the Murray-Darling Basin catchment, demands immediate attention from our government authorities. This development should serve as a wake-up call for increased vigilance and investment in combating the spread of this invasive species."
Mr Tallon continued, "While we commend the efforts of the National Eradication Program in responding to this outbreak, it is evident that current funding allocations are insufficient to address the magnitude of the threat posed by fire ants. Recent detections in New South Wales, Caboolture, and now Oakey highlight the pressing need for enhanced resources and a coordinated strategy to combat the spread of fire ants across the region."
The Darling Downs Environment Council echoes the sentiments expressed by Reece Pianta, Advocacy Manager for the Invasive Species Council, regarding the severity of the situation: "We cannot afford complacency in the face of this escalating threat. Urgent action is required to prevent further proliferation of fire ants, which have the potential to cause significant harm to our environment, agriculture, and public health."
The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has confirmed that a community member reported the discovery of multiple nests on a property in Oakey on 16 April 2024. Immediate measures have been taken to destroy the nests using liquid insecticide, and intensive surveillance activities are underway.
Mr Tallon urged members of the community to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring for fire ants, especially following the receipt of materials such as soil, turf, or mulch. "Early detection and reporting are critical in containing the spread of fire ants and safeguarding our ecosystems," Tallon emphasized.
The Darling Downs Environment Council is calling for continued ongoing efforts to address the fire ant threat and calls upon the government to conduct a thorough review of eradication program funding to ensure adequate resources are allocated to this crucial endeavor.
For media inquiries, please contact: Ahri Tallon, Coordinator Darling Downs Environment Council
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Ahri Tallon
Coordinator
Darling Downs Environment Council
0455 619 454
[email protected]
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