FIRE ant baiting is about to start in Birkdale, Redland Bay and Rochedale.
The suburbs are deemed key fire ant risk areas and householders may be required to allow government staff on to properties for treatment work.
National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program director Geoff Kent said an aggressive campaign would start in an effort to stop their spread into the Gold Coast and west into farming areas in the Lockyer and across new housing development sites.
"It's important that we continue to undertake baiting across south-east Queensland to eradicate fire ants, as was recently confirmed in Gladstone where we got rid of the pest in just two and a half years, setting a new standard in invasive pest eradication,’’ Mr Kent said.
"Key risk areas have been chosen to receive two to three rounds of bait treatment from September 2016 through to May 2017.
"If you live or work in the treatment area, you will receive notification that the fire ant program may require access to your property to spread fire ant bait.
"The bait includes an insect growth regulator that is commonly used in mosquito control programs and flea collars and is not harmful to humans or other animals.
"Residents should note that it is a requirement that they allow fire ant officers onto their properties for treatment purposes.
"All fire ant officers will display official Queensland government identification and will not need to enter your house or buildings.’’
Fire ants have the potential to destroy the Australian outdoor lifestyle, putting at risk activities like barbeques, picnics and sporting events.
"They can impact severely on people's health and wellbeing, as well as the environment and economy,’’ he said.
All Queenslanders have a legal obligation to manage risks and threats under their control.
Fire ants can be spread in materials like soil, mulch, animal manure, baled hay or straw, potted plants and turf.
More information, visit www.daf.qld.gov.au/fireants<http://www.daf.qld.gov.au/fireants> or call 13 25 23.
