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Category Archives: Biocontrol
Protecting and Restoring K’gari’s Pandanus
In record time, the introduced insect responsible for Pandanus dieback, Jamella australiae, spread across the eastern shores of Fraser Island, leaving a wake of destruction.
(more…)Help needed: Stinking Passion Flower
Dr Bruce Webber is seeking some assistance with a weed project that the CSIRO is running on stinking passionflower (Passiflora foetida). The research program is looking to improve control options for stinking passionflower with the view to developing a biological control solution.
(more…)The Big Four meet the Eurong Weed-busters
A John Sinclair children’s story from K’gari inspired by the Lantana Attack in October 2018 (more…)
Biocontrol of Lantana on K’gari
At least 15 years ago, we became aware of the failure of lantana to recolonise areas at Eurong where we had removed it. We then started to observe the thinning out of the lantana in the bush. (more…)
Biological controls are working
Unfortunately, there are an increasing number of injurious agencies finding their way to or threatening the natural integrity of K’gari (Fraser Island). Recent records include myrtle rust and feral fauna including foxes and pigs as well as new weeds and the jamella leaf-hopper. Fortunately, some of these and other adverse impacts are being in part countered by biological controls. (more…)
Twelve years of collaboration
Looking back after over 12 years of FINIA’s operations, we can sometimes forget the achievements of the group and its partners. These were brought home at a recent FINIA partner meeting held on Fraser Island (K’gari) to check field sites in addition to identifying new challenges for the World Heritage property. (more…)
The Persistence of Abrus
One of FIDO’s many inspiring volunteers has been Peter Dorney, a nurseryman from Boreen Point. Pete was appalled by the extent and aggressiveness of the rampant Abrus he encountered during a Happy Valley working bee in March 2016. He wondered how persistent the seed might be because this is critical to how long the vigilant treatment of Abrus needs to be maintained once no more seeds are set. (more…)
Fraser Island Pandanus Rescue
Joel Fostin has launched Fraser Island’s first ever crowd-sourcing campaign. Can you help?
Fraser Island (K’Gari) has suffered catastrophic losses. Up to 50% of the east coast’s Pandanus have perished (approximately 50,000 plants). A further 20% are likely perish without intervention within the next two months. Preserving the remaining Pandanus is crucial for successful natural regeneration, and vital for the many species of wildlife that rely on them for food and habitat. The Pandanus on Fraser Island (K’Gari) need help right now. (more…)
New Biosecurity Act
As of 1 July, a new Biosecurity Act now encompasses the previous Land Protection Act. Focused on risk-based management and on the likelihood and consequences of the risk of spread, this broader Act will continue the management of invasive plants and animals throughout Queensland. All Queenslanders, individuals and organisations have a general biosecurity obligation to take reasonable steps to report and ensure they do not spread a pest, disease or contaminants. (more…)
A Little More about Pandanus Dieback
By now I’m sure the vast majority of the readers of the FINIA newsletter are aware of the Pandanus dieback occurring in Pandanus populations in South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales, and the severe dieback currently occurring on Fraser Island. Many will also be aware of the leafhopper primarily responsible for the dieback (Jamella australiae). (more…)