Kempsey Shire Council is urging landowners—especially in the lower Macleay area—to check their properties for Tropical Soda Apple (TSA), a fast-spreading and invasive weed that may have been carried into new areas by floodwaters.
Since the recent flood, TSA fruit have been found along the Macleay River, its floodplains and tributaries, particularly in riparian (riverbank) zones and flood debris.
TSA is a serious biosecurity threat. Each fruit can hold over 400 seeds, which can germinate in just a few weeks. The seeds are easily spread by water, animals, hay bales, machinery and people.
Council is asking all landowners to:
- Inspect all paddocks that were flooded, especially areas with flood debris
- Check riverbanks and low-lying areas near creeks and streams
- Look for TSA fruit or plants
- Take photos and safely burn any fruit you find
- Report any sightings to Kempsey Shire Council Weeds Officer
Why it matters:
Tropical Soda Apple can:
- Take over pastures—up to one hectare in six months
- Form thick, thorny patches that block access to water and shade
- Injure people and livestock
- Harm native plants and crops by attracting fruit-damaging pests
"This weed spreads fast, and we want to act early before it becomes a bigger problem," said Council's Environmental Health Manager, Jack Dickey. "We need landowners to prevent TSA from growing on their properties."
Council is also gathering information on where TSA moved during the flood to help map its spread and monitor these areas for new outbreaks. Anyone who reports a suspected sighting will be contacted by a Weeds Officer and if the plant is confirmed to be TSA, receive an information pack with best practice advice and guidance for future management of the weed.
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