Chris Whiting MP today said changes are coming to fire ant biosecurity zones that will affect North Lakes
and Mango Hill.

From 1 September, North Lakes and Mango Hill will be moved into biosecurity Zone 2.
"This move into a new fire ant zone doesn’t mean fire ants have been discovered here: it is a
precautionary move," said Chris Whiting.

"What it means is that if you work with material that can carry fire ants and is sourced from our area, you
will have to carry out ”fire ant safe practices” before you move that material.

"This material includes soil, hay, mulch, manure, quarry material, turf and potted plants.

"Check the link below to see what fire ant safe practices would be relevant to you. There are a few
different fire ant safe practices for different materials.

"For example, if you are moving potted plants, you need to treat them with an insecticide like Bifenthrin.
"You can add granular insecticide to your potting mix, or drench them, dip them or spray them.

"Fire ants are nasty creatures. You don’t want them in your backyard or getting into our local agricultural
industry.

"Preventing the spread of fire ants is a responsibility we all have.

"If we all follow these steps, it may prevent them setting up home in our area," said Chris Whiting.
For more information go to https://www.fireants.org.au/stop-the-spread/fire-ant-biosecurityzones/changes-are-coming.