With the recent discovery of a small area of parthenium weed seedlings at CQU Rockhampton, control measures have been implemented in accordance with government recommendations.

The area has been roped off to prevent the entry of people or machinery, and the entire area has been sprayed, using recommended herbicides.

The area will be monitored regularly over the next few years, for early detection of any new outbreaks. Any new parthenium plants will be sprayed immediately, before they set seed.

If staff members or students see any suspected parthenium weeds or seedlings on campus, please contact Justin Cagney, Technical Officer, Plant Sciences Group, via j.cagney@cqu.edu.au or 4930 9796.

Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus) is a declared class 2 noxious weed (under the Land Protection Act 2002), considered one of the worst weeds in Australia.

Suspected to have been introduced during World War II, the weed is now a major problem in some areas of Australia, due to its invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts.

Photos courtesy: Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Water information website.