Agricultural
31 March, 2025
Biosecurity Should Concern Everyone
At a meeting held at All Saints Anglican Church Hall in Clifton last Wednesday, attendees from across the Darling Downs heard why biosecurity is so important.
The Condamine Catchment Management Association (CCMA) held a general meeting, which included guest speaker Craig Hunter, a Senior Biosecurity Officer for Biosecurity Queensland.
Mr Hunter is based out of Dalby and is originally from Goomburra, where he grew up on a dairy farm.
The CCMA includes representatives from Landcare groups and other environmental organisations across the Darling Downs.
Representing Clifton Landcare were Louise Skidmore, her partner Randolf and Barb Strong, the wife of President Clive Strong.
Attendees from as far as Chinchilla were at the meeting.
Mr Hunter explained that as a biosecurity officer, he works with the community to manage the impacts of invasive plants and animal that threaten Queensland’s environment and economy.
He said you do not have to be a farmer to be involved in biosecurity - community policing is much appreciated.
For example, Biosecurity Queensland has been alerted to the presence of invasive plants such as Lantana, from community members who have seen nurseries selling the plants or social media posts promoting them.
In an encouraging sign for those concerned about biosecurity, he said the new Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett, Member for Gympie, has been taking a lot of interest in biosecurity as a farmer himself.
Mr Hunter said Landcare and other environmentally-focused organisations should keep an eye out for future grant funding from the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative, which supports effective invasive plant and animal management.
To report a biosecurity pest or disease, call 13 25 23 or visit the DAF website.
