Central Highlands Regional Council, Media Release, 14 July 2025

Council has been aware of a confirmed detection of fire ants at the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance Broadmeadow Coal Mine site in Moranbah on Wednesday 9 July 2025.

The detection was identified and managed by the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, who acted swiftly to destroy the nests using direct nest injection treatment. Further surveillance and broadscale treatment are underway across the impacted area.

Fire ants pose a serious risk to communities, agriculture, and the environment. This detection, which is outside the Southeast Queensland eradication zone, reinforces the importance of strict compliance with fire ant biosecurity regulations, especially when moving materials that can carry fire ants.

Genetic testing and tracing are being conducted to determine how the ants reached Moranbah. When breaches of biosecurity protocols are identified, the program may take compliance action.

Council encourages all residents and businesses to stay vigilant.

To learn how to identify fire ants and their nests, or to report a sighting, call 13 22 68 or visit www.fireants.org.au.