Trial to eradicate Argentine ants to be focussed on E Bunbury

24/1/96

East Bunbury would be the focus of an extensive field trial to eradicate Argentine ants, Primary Industry Minister Monty House announced today.

The program would be the first of its type outside the metropolitan area and was a joint effort between Agriculture Western Australia and the Bunbury City Council.

Three types of baits developed by Agriculture WA would be used to try to eradicate the suburb's Argentine ant population.

The baits consist of a protein mixture containing a growth regulator and slow-acting poisons, both of which only affect insects.

"Agriculture WA has been working for several years to find a safe and effective way to eradicate Argentine ants," Mr House said.

"From laboratory and field trials in Perth we know these new baits are safe, require low application rates and are very effective."

"East Bunbury was chosen for the trial because it has a high level of infestation that was starting to cause discomfort to residents.

"We have given a commitment to work on eradicating the ants from all properties in the area."

Mr House said there would be an extensive consultation period with all East Bunbury residents before the eradication program began.

A public meeting would be held to explain exactly how the baits would work, methods of application and to address any community concerns.

The meeting would be held at the South West Italian Club on Wednesday, January 31 at 7.30 pm. 

Residents would also receive written notification three days before baiting began on their property and could contact the Bunbury City Council for more details.

The trial would commence in mid to late February and would take two weeks to complete. However, monitoring of ant activity would continue long after baiting was completed.

Media contact: Nicole Trigwell 481 2044

Agriculture WA: Entomologist, John van Schagen 368 3759

Bunbury City Council: Manager Health Services, Neville Moriarty (097) 808 246