December 2021

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2020-21 pest animal and weed research highlights out now

Biosecurity Queensland’s Technical Highlights 2020-21 have been released. The publication features research undertaken with the aim of providing solutions for better managing Queensland’s worst weeds and pest animals by reducing their impacts on agriculture, the environment, and the community.

Technical Highlights is a summary of the work undertaken in 2020–21 by groups across Biosecurity Queensland’s five research centres – the Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park; Health and Food Sciences Precinct, Coopers Plains; Pest Animal Research Centre, Toowoomba and the Tropical Weeds Research Centres in Charters Towers and South Johnstone. The publication also highlights the importance of collaboration between numerous Queensland, interstate, and overseas organisations.

The publication has gone 100% digital and paperless this year and is available for download (along with previous editions) on DAF’s website.

Be in the know for next year - contact our team to be added to the annual publication mailing list.

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Eradication season's flying start

As the hot, dry Naigai season comes to an end – our partners at the Torres Strait Regional Authority are working with us to protect the islands and mainland from exotic fruit flies. 

Kuki (monsoon) season doesn’t just bring Begai (big storm clouds) and north-west winds – but also these pests from our northern neighbours. 

TSRA Rangers recently kicked off this season’s eradication program for us by putting up fruit fly blocks on Dauan, Saibai, Boigu and Erub islands to help keep these pests under control.   

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Prepare now for natural disasters

When it comes to extreme weather events in Queensland it’s not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’.   
 
In the past 10 years Queensland has faced more than 70 disaster events including storms, fires, cyclones, storm tides and floods.   

After the safety of your family, caring for your animals is a priority in a natural disaster. Preparing now can make all the difference.   

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Heading north for the holidays? Skip the banana plant selfie!

Lush green banana farms among misty mountains and ancient rainforest… Far North Queensland’s tropical landscape offers some spectacular photo opportunities!  But if you’re heading north for the holidays there’s one photo that Banana growers don’t want you to take. 

A selfie with a banana plant might seem like a cute idea, but it could put our entire industry at risk of Panama TR4; a banana disease that could be in the dirt on your shoes or car tyres. 

Help spread the message – not banana disease – this festive season. 

Click ‘Learn More’ to hear from banana growers why it’s so important to never enter banana farms without permission.

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Dogs die in hot cars


Temperatures inside a car can reach 75°C in summer and leaving the windows down doesn’t stop a car reaching extreme temperatures. Dogs should be left at home with shade, shelter and fresh water. 

If you see a dog left in a hot car, report it immediately to RSPCA Queensland on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) or to us on 13 25 23.

If it is an emergency call 000.

Penalties of up to $275,700 or three years' imprisonment can apply to people convicted of cruelty for leaving animals in hot cars.

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Unwanted ‘friends’ staying for the holidays? No thanks!

The warm, wet summer means all kinds of insects are becoming more active – including ‘pantry pests’ like weevils in rice, beetles in grains, larvae in pulses, crawlies in dried fruit and nuts, and moths in flour.

Living in a subtropical climate, most of us Queenslanders have had insects in our cupboards at some point.

But what if your rice, flour or snacks come from overseas? Does that mean these insects are exotic pests?   

They might be! So be alert for exotic pests (like Khapra beetle larvae) in your pantry this summer – and pay special attention to grain, nut and dried fruit products produced overseas. 

If you find an unusual pest in your pantry, report it to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

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Pets are 'fur-ever' – not just for Christmas

Welcoming a new pet to your family is a big commitment. Take the time to find your 'purr-fect' match and make sure you can meet its lifelong needs. 

Before you commit to a new pet, think about:  

  • how much free time you have  
  • the animal’s temperament  
  • the cost of owning a pet  
  • how your pet will be fully cared for when you’re away from home. 

Also, be aware of online scams appearing to sell puppies or kittens. Scammers will use fake websites and social media accounts that can appear professional, complete with cute puppy or kitten photos. The safest option is to view the pet in person before committing any money to the seller.   

If you’re considering a new puppy, check the breeder is registered by searching their Breeder Identification Number in the Queensland Dog Breeder Register. You should contact the breeder and ask to meet the puppy and learn about its background. 

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We wish you a safe, relaxing festive season — and a happy new year!

As 2021 comes to a close, we’d like to thank our Biosecurity Queensland community for their efforts this year — it really does make a difference and aids us in our mission to protect Queensland from biosecurity baddies. 

If you have an urgent matter to report during the festive season, please call 13 Q GOV (13 74 68). 

For general enquiries, call 13 25 23. 

To report a biosecurity pest or disease, head to our website.

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