Environment · Brisbane Beacon news brief

Fire ant warnings increase as south-east Queensland enters wet season

Original report: ABC News · 30 October 2026 at 6:33 am (Brisbane time)

Illustrative photograph of Brisbane — Illustrative Brisbane location photograph. Not an image of the reported event.

What we know so far

Residents across south-east Queensland have been urged to watch for invasive fire ants as wet-season rainfall increases. According to ABC News, the insects can bind together into floating rafts when water rises, helping colonies survive and potentially spread. The National Fire Ant Eradication Program says people should keep their distance from suspected nests or floating clusters, rather than attempt to handle them. The warning comes as surveillance and eradication work continues around Brisbane and neighbouring regions. People who encounter suspected fire ants should use the official reporting channels for advice.

Original reporting

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