A major fire ant outbreak has been confirmed in Moranbah, marking the first time this invasive super pest has been found in central Queensland.
On July 9, program eradication officers visited the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance Broadmeadow Coal Mine site and destroyed fire ant nests using direct nest injection.
The program responded swiftly to this detection and will conduct eradication activities across the impacted area – including intensive surveillance and broadscale treatment – to ensure any present fire ants are eradicated.
Genetic analysis and tracing activities is being conducted to help determine how the ants reached Moranbah.
The Invasive Species Council says the breach is unacceptable and demands immediate action.
Businesses and industry should stay alert and the community is encouraged to learn how to identify fire ants and nests, and report any findings online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68).
