RESIDENTS can now explore the new biosecurity plan from Sunshine Coast Council to understand how council is targeting invasive plant and animal species and to find out about how they can be managed.
One such species is the drooping tree pear (Opuntia monacantha) – a cactus native to South America, which can quickly take over natural areas and become a costly infestation in agriculture.
In Bli Bli the thorny invader was recently dug from the ground and loaded into the back of a truck for destruction.
A restricted species under the Biosecurity Act 2014, it is identified for eradication from our region under the new Sunshine Coast Biosecurity Plan 2024.
Profound impact of invasive plants and animals
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said biosecurity was in everyone’s hands.
“When everyone takes action on biosecurity, it benefits the whole region,” Cr Johnston said.
“In our Sunshine Coast Biosphere, our environment, communities and economy are interconnected, and these can all be impacted by invasive plants and animals.
“For example, feral deer trample habitat and ringbark trees, cost farmers in damaged crops and pasture, and pose a serious danger to motorists.”
Cr Johnston said the plan identified reasonable and practical measures to manage 81 priority invasive species.
“We aim to prevent invasive species from infiltrating our region, eradicate those that we’ve found in low numbers, contain those found in some areas of our region, and manage those that are widespread to reduce their impact.”
Identifying ‘locally significant’ invasive species
Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez said the new plan also identified invasive plants not listed under the Biosecurity Act 2014 that damage environmental areas and are impacting our communities.
These locally significant invasive species include blue and coastal morning glory, cocos palm and thorny poinciana.
“Our biosecurity plan has been informed by feedback from the Invasive Weeds Taskforce, which includes landholders, First Nations representatives, Queensland Government, the local agricultural sector and community groups,” Cr Suarez said.
“We need our landholders and communities to be equipped with the knowledge and ability to manage invasive species that impact our region.
“We made these priorities more understandable and practical, so it’s easier for landholders and residents to manage invasive plants and animals on their property.”
Invasive animals such as foxes and wild dogs pose a threat to pets and livestock, while rabbits can be devastating to our agricultural sector.
Invasive plants out-compete native species, reducing the food available to wildlife with impacts across ecosystems, while others are toxic to humans and animals, threaten agricultural activities or can choke dams and waterways.
Council carries out ongoing invasive plant and animal management throughout the region while running programs to help landholders manage invasive plants on private properties.
More information is available at – www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and searching for ‘Biosecurity Plan 2024’.