The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working with Gympie Regional Council to stop fire ants before they arrive.

With fire ants detected only 14 km away from the region’s southern boundary—and ongoing population growth, development, and major infrastructure projects increasing risk, council staff have been trained to spot high-risk materials and report suspect ants or nests immediately.

“We are a small team with a big job. Preparation and preparedness deliver better outcomes. When it comes to fire ants, we have taken a proactive approach—providing leadership and driving a clear strategy across council,” said James, Biosecurity Officer, Gympie Regional Council.

In 2023, the council prioritised building internal capability by developing a fire ant training for its workforce. The training was approved in January 2024 and rolled out in March 2025.

Key outcomes include:

• More than 650 council staff enrolled, with an 85% completion rate.
• Mandatory training for contractors working in high-risk sectors.
• Active participation in the Gympie Natural Resource Management Forum, attracting forty participants from multiple councils.
• Regular presentations by biosecurity officers to environmental groups to promote free online fire ant training.

This workforce-wide initiative ensures staff—from office-based roles to field crews—are equipped to identify, report, and respond quickly to potential fire ant sightings.

Local contractors and businesses handling soil, turf and machinery have attended practical workshops, giving them the tools to act fast. Community awareness campaigns are also helping tens of thousands of residents recognise and report fire ants, boosting Gympie and Queensland’s defence.

Learn more about the council’s response to fire ants by visiting the national program’s website.

Article adapted from Biosecurity News newsletter, Department of Primary Industries