RED IMPORTED FIRE ANTS - THE HUNT IS ON!

Red Imported Fire Ants, currently infesting Brisbane, may have spread to NSW and if they have we need to find them as soon as possible, warns Dr Chris Orton, director of the University of New South Wales Centre for Entomological Research and Insecticide Technology (CERIT).

"If we can find infestations early enough we might just be able to stop them becoming a serious problem, like in Brisbane," Dr Orton said.

"Throughout Australia we need to check our gardens, parks and other favourite outdoor places for these tiny red aggressive ants. We simply don't have the resources to find them quickly enough to prevent the problem unless everyone lends a hand. It's an opportunity for each of us to do something really helpful to protect our environment, lifestyle and agricultural industries."

Suggesting a plan of attack Dr Orton said: "Start by inspecting pot plants and other similar objects and then give the whole area a thorough search. The ants are not difficult to identify, if you lift up an object outdoors or disturb an earth mound and tiny (2-6 mm long) red aggressive ants rush out in a group and try to attack you, it's possible you have found fire ants. But take care not to get stung - these ants are dangerous enough to be treated with caution - they tend to sting in unison, their sting is very painful and there have been deaths in sensitive people in other countries."

According to Dr Orton Fire Ants are so aggressive and invasive that they have the power to dramatically and permanently change our outdoor Aussie lifestyle. "They could put an end to kids playing in back yards, to gardening, to walking barefoot or in thongs on lawns, to the backyard barbecue and to some outdoor sports. We take all these things for granted but Fire Ants could make them a painful experience that most people simply can't endure. Even our pets are at risk!" he said.

A National Fire Ant Eradication Program was launched during September with headquarters in the Brisbane suburb of Oxley. Its website, www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fireants, can provide more information on the ants. Australia-wide departments of Agriculture, Primary Industries or Natural Resources as well as Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services and National Parks and Wildlife are gearing up to deal with any infestations which may be found and the pest management industry association, AEPMA, is keeping its members informed of developments.

If you think you have found Fire Ants, don't try to eradicate them yourself. Instead you should phone the NSW Agriculture call centre on 1800 888 251 for instructions and information.

CONTACT DETAILS: Dr Chris Orton, UNSW Centre for Entomological Research and Insecticide Technology, tel. (02) 9385 0347 or Victoria Collins, UNSW Public Affairs and Development, tel. (02) 9385 3644.