Bitou bush surveillance underway
Residents and holiday makers on Queensland’s southern coast are being asked to keep a lookout for bitou bush as part of an ongoing surveillance and eradication program.
Experienced field teams from Biosecurity Queensland, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM), Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation and local government agencies are joining forces once again to commence annual bitou bush inspection activities.
Biosecurity Queensland officer Lyn Willsher said the ongoing multi-agency program is proving very successful with significant decreases in the number of infestations.
“Offshore island inspections are turning up very few bitou bush plants, so we are well on the road to eradication,” Ms Willsher explained.
“However, if we want to be completely bitou bush free we’ll need your help. If you are heading to the beach anywhere between the Gold Coast and Fraser Island, or to any of the offshore Islands, be on the lookout for bitou bush and let us know if you spot it.
“Bitou bush is a Class 1 declared pest plant in Queensland. It has the potential to replace native coastal vegetation, destroying wildlife habitat, which is why it is so important to eradicate it before it becomes established.
“Bitou bush is a bright green perennial shrub that can climb up to five metres and has yellow chrysanthemum-like flowers on short stalks,” she said.
If you see this plant, report it to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23, or visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au for more information.
