Council and Landcare team up to bring Weedbuster Week to the Capricorn Coast

Livingstone Shire Council and Capricorn Coast Landcare Group are getting on board for Weedbuster Week again this year, with an information stall at Yeppoon’s Keppel Bay Plaza from 8.30am – 5pm on 10 and 11 September.

Parks Councillor and gardening guru Tom Wyatt said Weedbuster Week aims to provide information and opportunities to build skills and knowledge to enable people to better manage weeds.

“Weedbuster Week is an opportunity to focus on the introduced plants and animals that impact our natural areas, native wildlife and agricultural production,” Cr Wyatt said.

“That’s why we’re encouraging local residents to bring along their garden weed sample, either a photo or in a bag for identification, and you’ll receive a free native plant along with helpful advice on managing your weed problem.

“Weeds can spread easily and quickly and can impact on a range of industries including agriculture, our own gardens and natural environments, so it’s very important we work together as a community to help tackle the issue.

“Weedbuster Week is also an opportunity to recognise the efforts made by volunteers dedicated to protecting their local area.”

For more information head to www.livingstone.qld.gov.au or check out Council’s Facebook page.

Ways to prevent weed spread

?Identify the major weeds in your area. Your local government, Bushcare or Landcare group may provide you with more information. ?Buyer beware, weeds can be transported as contaminants in soil, grain, hay, and mulch, and by livestock. ?Stick to designated roads and tracks and avoid weed-infested areas. ?Clean your equipment, boots, vehicles and machinery when leaving known weed-infested areas. ?Clean off-road vehicles by blowing, vacuuming or washing dirt and seeds. Check boats, propellers and trailers before entering or leaving waterways and remove any plant material. ?Don´t dump weeds and garden waste in bush or parkland. Dispose of waste appropriately by transporting it safely to a waste disposal facility or burn it, bury it or add it to onsite mulching. ?Never buy waterweeds or keep them in your ponds and aquariums. ?Never dump aquarium plants, water or contents down drains or into waterways. ?Check the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service website before ordering plant material from overseas, including bulbs and seeds purchased over the internet or by mail order. ?Wash your car on the lawn to prevent detergent entering waterways via stormwater drains, as nutrient-enriched water and soil promote weed growth.