Mosquito spray will not be trialled

Gosford Council has resolved not to proceed with a pilot trial of mosquito larvicide on the wetlands of Empire Bay due to concerns from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

It has also resolved that due to the large parcels of land in the area under the responsibility of the State Government, the Government be asked to approve and fund a mosquito control program in the Empire Bay area.

Council considered a report by the Westmead Hospital Department of Medical Entomology on May 2, examining the findings of a "comprehensive mosquito risk assessment" of the estuarine wetlands and the surrounding residential areas of the south-eastern end of Brisbane Water.

The study area included Bensville, Empire Bay, Daleys Point, Killcare Heights, Killcare, Hardys Bay, Pretty Beach and Wagstaffe.

After considering the report, council resolved to defer the matter and seek further advice from other sources, including the NPWS, regarding the implications of BTI pilot spraying on the surrounding national park area.

Council deferred the matter again at its September 5 meeting, until after the presentation of medical entomologist for Brisbane Council Mr Mike Muller, which was held on September 19.

Mr Muller provided studies regarding the toxicity of bacillus thuringiiensis isralensis (BTI), one of the most "commonly used larvicide control agents in Australia", to non-target species.

The product has been used successfully to reduce mosquitoes in saltmarsh environments at Sydney Olympic Park and South East Queensland, according to the studies.

All reports provided by Mr Muller advised that BTI was effective against mosquitoes without causing adverse effects on non-target species.

A council report stated that all documents said that further research was necessary to fully evaluate the acute and chronic sub-lethal effects of insecticides on non-target fauna.

Council has also resolved to ask the Hunter Regional Coordination Management Group (Premiers Department) to allow council to be an active member of its mosquito working group to ensure a "consistent and regional approach to issues/management options for mosquitoes".

It also resolved to, as part of its environmental education program, develop an information package and website for residents and visitors encouraging the use of personal protection measures to minimise exposure to mosquitoes and modification of activities around their properties to reduce breeding opportunities.

Council agenda ENV.103, October 3