Strong praise for Scenic Rim fire ant suppression

Published on 09 December 2025

Scenic Rim Regional Council’s proactive approach to tackling one of South East Queensland’s most destructive pests has been recognised at the latest Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce (FAST) meeting in Brisbane.

Mayor Tom Sharp said Council’s biosecurity team received strong praise for its extensive and ongoing efforts to control the spread of fire ants across the region.

“Our officers are doing exceptional work on the frontline of fire ant suppression, and it’s great to see that acknowledged by both FAST and the National Fire Ant Eradication Program,” Mayor Sharp said.

“The Scenic Rim is among the top contenders when it comes to proactive, broadscale treatment, from innovative use of equipment to strong partnerships that amplify the impact of our local efforts.”

At the meeting, which brought together state and local government representatives, industry bodies, primary producers and utility providers, Council’s treatment of more than 2360 kilometres of road corridor since July 2024 was highlighted as an example of best practice.

“For the second year running, we’ve also secured the Department of Transport and Main Roads' contract to treat over 1,000 kilometres of state roads within the Scenic Rim,” Mayor Sharp said.

“Council will continue to treat all suitable local roads across our region, using data collection and performance monitoring to ensure we’re protecting our community, our economy, and our agricultural industries.”

The combined data presented by all partners at the meeting demonstrated that collaboration is delivering measurable results, with significant coverage now achieved across the fire ant suppression treatment area.

“By staying proactive and united, and working in partnership with the Queensland Government and private landholders, we’re making real progress toward eradicating fire ants from our landscapes,” Mayor Sharp said.

Fire ants are dark red, aggressive, adaptive and capable of inflicting painful stings to people, pets, wildlife and livestock. Left unmanaged, they can render areas unusable for farming, recreation and everyday living.

Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, everyone is responsible for reporting and managing fire ant nests on their properties and members of the community are urged to report any suspected sightings within 24 hours to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 132 ANT (13 22 68).

Find out more about fire ants (and how to identify them), FAST and the National Fire Ant Eradication Program at fireants.org.au