Toowoomba Regional Council is on the lookout for new Biosecurity Advisory Committee members

Details Last Updated: Monday, 08 July 2024 14:28 Published: Monday, 08 July 2024 14:30

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is looking for members of the community that have a passion for ensuring the region remains vigilant in the fight against invasive plants and animals.

TRC is running a short expressions of interest process for new members to join its existing Biosecurity Advisory Committee. 

The Committee plays a role in advising council on:

policy and programs aimed at improving management of Invasive Biosecurity Matter throughout the Region. funding options to assist in improving the management of Invasive Biosecurity Matter. the preparation and ongoing review of a Biosecurity Plan for Invasive Plants and Animals pursuant to section 53 of the Biosecurity Act, 2014. promoting effective management of Invasive Biosecurity Matter across the Region. relevant issues on the management of Invasive Biosecurity Matter impacting on the Region.

TRC Parks and Recreation Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Tim McMahon said Council was looking for members of the community who are prepared to give up their time to contribute to the management of invasive plants and animals in the Toowoomba Region.

“The committee has had representatives from a broad cross section of stakeholders including councils, Landcare and environmental management groups, State Government agencies and community representatives,” Cr McMahon said.

“As our world is changing and biosecurity threats become more complex, we need a collaborative approach between all levels of government and the community,” he said.

“By creating positive biosecurity behaviours across the region, we share both the responsibility and the benefits of the work of this committee.

“This includes building awareness to empower residents to report biosecurity threats. Community involvement gives us so many more sets of eyes on the ground, and biosecurity is a risk to us all, not just farmers.”

Nominations should include a one-page explanation of the reasons for seeking appointment to the Advisory Committee as well as skills you may have.

Nominations can be lodged by sending an email to [email protected]  before 5pm, 26 July 2024.

The next meeting of the Toowoomba Biosecurity Committee is tentatively scheduled for August and successful candidates will be advised ahead of the meeting.