Biosecurity Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council officers have destroyed more than 1,000 invasive plants being propagated for sale by backyard growers that had the potential to become serious pests.
Biosecurity Queensland Operations Manager Rob Cobon said most of the plants seized were cacti.
“Our staff, together with Sunshine Coast Regional Council officers have been on the lookout for people selling illegal plants either online or through local markets,” he said.
“The plants that we’ve seized are relatives to the prickly pear cactus, which decimated 60 million acres of land and sent many landholders broke.
“These plants have the potential to cause similar problems, are highly invasive and their sharp spines can also cause injury to stock and native animals.”
Sunshine Coast Council is taking a proactive approach to preventing weed infestations from occurring by implementing a local Biosecurity Plan.
Mr Cobon said the Biosecurity Act 2014 requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risks associated with invasive plants and animals under their control.
“So if you’re planning to sell plants online or at your local market, please make sure that they’re not restricted or prohibited,” he said.
“If these plants spread they can cause serious damage to the local environment and stock and native wildlife.”
If you have or think you know someone who is keeping or selling illegal plants please contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
Image source: Queensland Government
