Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has revealed his plan to squash mosquitos, by unveiling a new all-terrain vehicle that targets hard-to-reach breeding sites.

Cr Schrinner said Brisbane City Council’s Mosquito Management Program was important and effective to limit mosquito breeding and provide relief to residents over the summer months.

“Mosquitos can be a real pest and we want to limit the discomfort and irritation felt by residents,” he said.

“We are the only Council that has expert entomological scientists and that’s why our program is so effective at targeting mosquitos and combining the best aerial and ground treatments available.

“Every year, we spray over 20,000 hectares of salt marches and mangroves, where heavy rainfall and high tides lead to mosquito breeding.

“We have purchased the new all-terrain vehicle, which is very stable on uneven ground and better than quad bikes in swamp areas and it will take our program to the next level, by making it easier and safer for our officers to reach challenging and tricky areas.

“The first aerial treatment of the season took place in August and we expect to carry out at least 12 more before the end of May 2020, in addition to extra reactive sprays at the advice of our entomologists.

“Treated areas include Tinchi Tamba, Boondall Wetlands, Brisbane Airport, Pinkenba, Fisherman Island, Mud Island, Green Street, St Helena Island, Hemmant, Bulimba Creek and Tingalpa Creek.

“Products only target mosquitos and we have taken every precaution to ensure they are safe for people, pets and the environment.

“We want residents and visitors to enjoy Brisbane’s beautiful climate and great outdoor lifestyle.

“With over 280 days of sunshine each year, Brisbane is the best city in the world and this is just one of the ways we are making it even better by improving quality of life for residents.”

Residents can help prevent the spread of mosquitos by:

  • Emptying water from pot plants every week or filling in the base with sand
  • Filling self-watering pot cavities with sand or covering the watering holes
  • Removing or covering all other items and containers that hold water
  • Draining and covering boats and canoes
  • Effectively screening water tanks
  • Keeping swimming pools chlorinated
  • Trimming trees and cleaning leaves from roof gutters to prevent pooling and reduce blocked screens.

For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on (07) 3403 8888.