The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has confirmed a detection of fire ants in Moranbah — marking the pest’s arrival in the greater Mackay region and signalling a serious biosecurity threat to Central Queensland.
On 9 July 2025, program officers responded rapidly to the detection at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Broadmeadow Coal Mine site, destroying fire ant nests using direct nest injection treatment.
This detection has triggered an urgent response, with eradication officers set to carry out intensive surveillance and broadscale treatment across the area to ensure any remaining ants are eradicated.
Moranbah falls within the Burdekin state government electorate, placing this detection uncomfortably close to areas that had, until now, avoided the spread from South East Queensland.
Michael Homden, Executive Program Director of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, said cooperation with local industry was key.
“The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working closely with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance to contain, treat, and eradicate this significant detection swiftly,” he said.
“This detection is a strong reminder that community and industry vigilance can, and does, stop the spread of fire ants.
“Eradicating fire ants is a shared community responsibility – and BHP’s cooperation demonstrates how industry partners contribute to this critical national effort.”
Tracing and genetic testing are currently underway to determine how the ants arrived in Moranbah — which sits well outside the South East Queensland eradication zone.
The spread underscores the risk posed by the movement of materials like soil, mulch, quarry products and machinery from fire ant biosecurity zones. Businesses must ensure they comply with legal obligations when moving such materials. Breaches may result in regulatory action.
Residents and businesses alike are urged to remain vigilant. Learn to identify fire ants and their nests, and report any sightings online at fireants.org.au or by calling 13 22 68.
Eradicating fire ants is a national priority — and now it’s right on our doorstep. It will take all of us to stop the spread.
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