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New Plan targets invasive species in Townsville

The Townsville City Biosecurity Plan/ Photo courtesy of TCC

What’s happening?

Townsville City Council has officially endorsed the Townsville City Biosecurity Plan 2025-2030 at this week’s ordinary Council meeting.

The plan provides a strategic and coordinated approach to managing pest plants and animals across the Local Government Area (LGA) while ensuring compliance with the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014.

Why it matters?

The biosecurity plan is a crucial step in protecting the environment, economy, human health, and social amenity from invasive species. Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney highlighted that the plan balances existing programs with new, cost-effective solutions to minimise the spread and impact of invasive plants and animals.

“Townsville is a beautiful part of the world, but like everyone, we have our own challenges when it comes to biosecurity and the control of plants and animals that are deemed pests,” Cr Greaney said.

Local Impact

The endorsed plan reaffirms Council’s commitment to biosecurity and ensures that the management of invasive species remains a collaborative effort between multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, industry, community groups, and private landowners.

“Local governments are required to develop, adopt and implement biosecurity plans and manage invasive species within their LGA, however there are many stakeholders that need to also do their part,” Cr Greaney said.

“For private landholders, we expect people to take reasonable and practical steps to prevent or minimise the risk of introducing or spreading invasive biosecurity matter on and off their land.”

By the Numbers

  • 3736km² – the total area covered by Townsville’s LGA, making coordinated biosecurity efforts essential.
  • 200+ invasive animal and plant species currently affecting the region.
  • 8 critically endangered and 14 vulnerable species are at risk in Alligator Creek National Park, with invasive threats like Gamba Grass, Yellow Crazy Ants, and Siam Weed putting local biodiversity in jeopardy.
An outline of the Townsville area and catchments including the impact zones of critical species.

Zoom In

Councillor Brady Ellis of Division 10, which includes Townsville’s rural southern suburbs, welcomed the plan, particularly for its potential to combat high-risk invasive species.

“We have such a beautiful region full of diversity, so it’s great to see Council working hard to protect the amenity and biodiversity of this great city,” Cr Ellis said.

“People don’t realise Alligator Creek National Park in my division is home to eight critically endangered species, along with 14 vulnerable species. Unfortunately, some of these invasive species like Gamba Grass, Yellow Crazy Ants, and Siam Weed are a serious threat, so it’s critical everyone works together to manage pests in our region.”

Zoom Out

The biosecurity challenge is not unique to Townsville, with invasive species posing threats across Queensland and Australia. The Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014 mandates that local governments take proactive steps, but the responsibility extends to all levels of government, businesses, and the community.

What to Look for Next?

The implementation of the Townsville City Biosecurity Plan 2025-2030 will focus on strengthening existing programs, engaging stakeholders, and introducing innovative, cost-effective solutions to mitigate the spread of invasive species.

Expect updates on specific control measures, community involvement programs, and monitoring efforts over the coming months.

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