Fire ants detected on public land, broadscale treatment to commence

Dozens of fire ant nests have been discovered in the Plainland and Laidley areas, sparking calls for residents and landholders to be on the lookout to help halt the spread.

While previous cases detected locally were mostly on farmland, the invasive pest has recently been spotted in suburbia and public spaces.

Council’s Environment and Regulatory Services Portfolio Councillor, Cheryl Steinhardt said it is crucial the community remains vigilant and immediately reports suspected sightings of fire ants to future-proof the region’s agriculture, flora and fauna.

“Our message to the community is to please, make sure you reach out to the National Fire Ant Program within 24 hours if you suspect fire ants are present on your property or on public land.

“We’re also urging landholders to cooperate with the Program and assist in its eradication efforts,” she said.

Following changes that came into effect in July 2024, councils are now responsible for treating fire ants detected on council-owned and managed land.

Members of the public should still report all suspected sightings to the National Fire Ant Program, with Council then actioning any suspected nests on Council land.

“Moving forward, Council intends to work in conjunction with the National Fire Ant Program through both broadscale baiting and insect growth regulators, as per our General Biosecurity Obligation and the requirements of Queensland’s biosecurity legislation.

“The Therapeutic Goods Administration has assessed the active ingredients and determined they are of low toxicity and deemed safe to humans and mammals,” Cr Steinhardt said.

Fire ants are a category 1 restricted pest under the Biosecurity Act 2014 and, if left uncontrolled, can cost the Australian economy $2 billion per year.

Cr Steinhardt said educating the community that fire ants exist in the Lockyer Valley, and the need to be on the lookout from them, was paramount.

“Recently, community awareness resulted in the identification of more than 50 nests on a local footpath, directly where residents walk and park their cars.

“Fire ant nests are usually found in open areas such as lawns, garden beds, potted plants, near water sources, along roadsides and in newly developed areas. They are also extremely aggressive and swarm distinctively when disturbed.

“Protecting ourselves against this invasive pest is vital – not only for our environment and agriculture, but our economy and health too,” Cr Steinhardt said.

To report fire ants, visit fireants.org.au or contact 13 25 23.

To learn how to identify fire ants, visit https://www.fireants.org.au/look/appearance