Watch out for unwanted weedy hitchhikers

Travellers are being warned to avoid transporting weed seed over the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Minister for Natural Resources and Water Craig Wallace encouraged everyone to reduce their risk of transporting weeds by keeping their vehicle and equipment clean, particularly after travelling off-road or long distances.

Mr Wallace said weed seeds could easily attach to tyres treads, radiators, licence plates and the underside of vehicles.

“Weeds have a major impact on production, the environment and human health,” Mr Wallace said.

“Weeds such as parthenium and giant rat’s tail grass can be unknowingly transported on vehicles and equipment, particularly following summer rains.”

Mr Wallace said there were a number of ways to help prevent the spread of weeds:

·Stick to designated roads and tracks and avoid weed-infested areas

·Clean off-road vehicles by blowing, vacuuming or washing off the dirt and seeds

·Clean equipment, boots, vehicles and machinery when leaving known weed-infested areas

·Check boats, propellers and trailers before entering and leaving waterways and remove any plant material

·Contact landowners before entering their properties and check what their requirements are for preventing the spread of weeds.

Mr Wallace encouraged travellers to take full advantage of washdown facilities that have been built across Queensland for cleaning vehicles and machinery, and assisting in the prevention of weed spread.

“Utilising existing washdown facilities is an easy, affordable and time-efficient way to reduce the spread of weeds.”

Details of washdown facility locations can be obtained from www.nrw.qld.gov.au/pests or by contacting your local NRW or local government office.

“The most cost-effective way to control weeds is to stop them spreading and eradicate new infestations,” Mr Wallace said.

Media contact:

Paul Childs 0407 131 654 or paul.childs@ministerial.qld.gov.au