Thagoona residents should check their properties for fire ants.
That’s the message from Donna Lucas who has been reporting them on her property as far back as 2018.
And since she first noticed them, Donna said she has set out to find the best method to eradicate the pest and to ensure that they do not return to build new nests.
Donna said that the problem first came to her attention three years ago when she counted at least 20 nests throughout her property.
“I reported the nests to Biosecurity Queensland, who then came out and treated the problem,” she said.
“Our problem seemed to have gone away until in 2020 when we counted five nests, then this year the number of nests has increased again to 10.”
Donna has made some sharp observations from her experience.
“I find that the bait does not work as effectively as the direct nest injection.
“We have even had aerial spraying on many occasions all of which I found did not control the problem.
“My main concerns are that if people do not check their properties for fire ants, they will continue to live and spread.
“I feel like I am doing the right thing by constantly checking my property and reporting any fire ants that I may come across.
“I just ask others to do the same, so that together we can eradicate them.”
Donna would like to also see an increase in the number of visits from Biosecurity officers and regular check ups after treatments have been undertaken in the area.
“Following up with home owners after the treatment is a much more effective approach,” she recommended.
“We can then determine whether the treatment has been successful.”
Donna has also been in contact with Member for Ipswich West, Jim Madden.
On receiving the news from Donna, Mr Madden said he immediately contacted the Minister for Agriculture Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner.
“I requested that the fire ant team contact Donna as a matter of urgency,” he said.
“I have previously found fire ant nests at the intersection of Thagoona – Haigslea Road and on Karrabin – Rosewood Road.
“The fire ant team treated all of the nests soon after I reported them and I encourage residents to contact Biosecurity Queensland if they suspect they have fire ant nests on their property.”
