Cane expertise put to use
THE Wet Tropics Management Authority has appointed a sugarcane industry engagement officer to assist canegrowers to eradicate yellow crazy ants south of Cairns.
Wesley Moller brings 30 years of cane industry experience to the Authority’s Yellow Crazy Ant Eradication Program.
Project manager, Lucy Karger, said Mr Moller’s appointment would build on the Authority’s recent work with the industry.
“Wesley will be a familiar face to many in the Mulgrave milling area. His local knowledge and industry expertise will provide a vital link in continuing our close working relationship with mill staff, farmers, contractors and farm workers,” she said.
According to the Authority, 40 per cent of the total yellow crazy ant infestation area exists within sugarcane.
Yellow crazy ants are among the most invasive species found in the Wet Tropics, having invaded over 1400 hectares of land in the region, including over 200 hectares of rainforest in and adjacent to the World Heritage Area.
Ms Karger said the Authority expected to announce a third successful local eradication site in August. In addition, 160 hectares in the hill areas of Bentley Park have been moved to a transition stage due to a reduction and contraction of ant numbers.