The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has confirmed a detection of fire ants in Moranbah — a worrying sign that the pest is moving dangerously closer to Central and North Queensland.
On 9 July 2025, program eradication officers acted swiftly at the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Broadmeadow Coal Mine site, destroying nests using direct nest injection.
While Moranbah is not geographically part of the Burdekin region, it does fall within the Burdekin state government electorate — placing this detection alarmingly close to an area that, until now, has remained outside the known fire ant threat zone.
“The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working closely with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance to contain, treat, and eradicate this significant detection swiftly,” said Michael Homden, Executive Program Director of the program.
“This detection is a strong reminder that community and industry vigilance can, and does, stop the spread of fire ants.
“Eradicating fire ants is a shared community responsibility – and BHP’s cooperation demonstrates how industry partners contribute to this critical national effort.”
In response, the program will undertake broadscale treatment and intensive surveillance in the affected area. Genetic analysis and tracing are also underway to determine how the ants reached Moranbah.
This detection outside the South East Queensland eradication zone highlights the ongoing risk posed by the movement of materials such as soil, mulch, or equipment. Businesses operating in fire ant biosecurity zones must understand and follow regulatory requirements. Breaches can trigger serious compliance actions.
Community awareness is vital. Learn to spot fire ants and report any sightings at fireants.org.au or by calling 13 22 68.
Eradicating fire ants remains a national priority — and it starts with all of us.
Image source: BMA Australia
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2023 Burdekin Life Pty Ltd.
