Concerns Grow Over Cattle Tick Outbreak in Queensland

Recently, an outbreak of cattle ticks in the Cattle Tick Free Zone of Queensland has ignited discussions about the government’s approach to managing such infestations.

Earlier this month, it was reported that four properties near Taroom found cattle ticks, raising alarms due to their location within the ‘clean’ zone. Local cattle producer Alex Sparkes expressed his frustrations, stating, “It can’t be overstated the overwhelming disappointment in the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and government in general since this outbreak occurred.”

Sparkes criticized the lack of communication from the DPI, suggesting that advice has been to suppress dialogue rather than enabling producers to be proactive in their response: “Certainly, a change in the way these issues are managed from the top down to those on the ground is required.”

In response to inquiries, a DPI spokesperson stated that the department is providing affected producers with information packs and direct access to Biosecurity Officers, who assist with eradication strategies and compliance measures.

“In response to the current situation in Taroom, DPI staff are actively conducting tracing and risk assessment activities to guide surveillance and support local property owners,” the spokesperson explained. A community meeting has been arranged at the Taroom Town Hall on Friday, 13 February.

Furthermore, it was noted that a Biosecurity Officer would be available in Taroom from Monday, 9 February, until Friday, 13 February.

Calls for DPI Review

Another Taroom cattle producer, Rob Lethbridge, advocated for a thorough review of the DPI’s management of biosecurity outbreaks. He remarked, “At the moment, it seems the Department doesn’t have the management systems in place to control any biosecurity issues.”

Lethbridge stressed the importance of understanding the root cause of these issues, whether they stem from budget constraints, staffing shortages, or a lack of experience within the department.

He warned, “If there are no changes made soon, we will lose the small amount of experience we have left within. The agricultural industries deserve a Department fit for purpose that works collaboratively with them.”

Examining Outbreak Frequency and Effects

Producer Jock Douglas raised pertinent questions about the number of tick outbreaks occurring prior to the Labor government’s relaxation of inspection protocols along the tick line. “It’s vital to investigate how many outbreaks could have been prevented,” he asserted.

As of now, the DPI has designated 213 properties within the Queensland Cattle Tick Free Zone as restricted. Over the last 12 months, 65 new restrictions were noted, while 39 properties were successfully cleared.

Concerns Over Management Systems

Douglas criticized the ‘self-inspection’ system implemented in 2016 for tick management, stating, “This system was never going to work effectively.” He emphasized that organized efforts from producers, supported by official inspections, were responsible for successful tick management in the past.

Who Bears the Cost of Tick Management?

Fred Chudleigh, a former Agricultural Economist with the Qld Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, highlighted the economic implications of cattle tick management. According to his evaluation from 2010, the annual cost of tick control to the Queensland economy was approximately $10 million, a figure likely larger today.

Chudleigh argues, “Cattle ticks will never be eradicated from Queensland, meaning those producers north of the line must continue managing the issue. It’s time to re-evaluate the current situation for equitable outcomes.”

In light of recent complications, some producers have suggested that those unable to manage ticks without government assistance should reconsider their involvement in the industry.

• Beef Central will be attending Biosecurity Queensland’s upcoming community information session on Friday at the Taroom Hall at 1:30 PM.