A new biosecurity project targeting feral pigs and the management of Phytophthora multivora has been delivered by Western Downs Regional Council in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries – Queensland Feral Pest Initiative.
The 'Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Soil Pathogen and Feral Pig Management in the Bunya Landscape' project resulted in the removal of 93 feral pigs from Council-managed lands within the Bunya Mountains, leading to a significant reduction in environmental damage to areas such as the Russel Park Mountain Bike Trails.
Council's rural services team gathered valuable behavioural insights and activity data to enhance Council's pest management approach to dual biosecurity threat of Phytophthora multivora spread by feral pigs within the Bunya Mountains.
The project involved the collaring and tracking of 19 feral pigs to understand behavioural insights, soil sampling and micro biome analysis to assess impacts of pest disturbance, as well as multispectral imaging to benchmark the progression of Bunya Pine dieback.
Council's Spokesperson for Planning and Environment Councillor Kylie Bourne said the project demonstrated Council's commitment to the sustainable management of invasive species.
"The Western Downs has such a vast agricultural sector and its critical we ensure our pest management and biosecurity measures are providing effective and innovative solutions," Cr Bourne said.
''By collaborating with the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative, Bunya People Aboriginal Corporation, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and South Burnett Regional Council, Council were able to build strong community partnerships for the undertaking of future biosecurity initiatives and awareness.
"Council's Rural Services team are excited to be partnering with Dalby State High School (DSHS) Trade Centre to construct five new feral pig traps.
"The traps will be deployed to strategic locations which were identified by the behavioural data collected through this project.
"This project has been a milestone achievement in understanding the behaviour of feral pigs and its link to Bunya Pine dieback, leading to advanced future-proofing of Council's pest management."
Council is currently seeking community feedback on the Draft Biosecurity Plan for 2025-2030, the plan identifies pest animals and weeds that pose a potential threat to our region and outlines necessary resources to effectively manage these threats.
