Attachment 2 - Noosa Biosecurity Plan 2026-2031

2. Context
Local biosecurity impacts
Noosa Shire is valued for its rich biodiversity and well-connected ecosystems of subtropical
rainforests, eucalypt woodlands and coastal ecosystems. These natural areas provide habitat
for an abundance of native plant and animal species including threatened animals such as the
koala, glossy black-cockatoo and marine turtles. A total of 185 species of conservation
significance persist in Noosa Shire and 5 threatened ecological communities. Protected areas
make up over 44% of the shire and over 55% of the shire is covered in native vegetation. The
health of these natural ecosystems is vital for community wellbeing, productive landscapes,
clean drinking water and nature-based recreation and tourism. Invasive species are a key threat
to these values.

Noosa Shire faces a complex and evolving biosecurity landscape that requires constant
vigilance and proactive, regenerative management to ensure valued ecosystems are protected
and repaired. Alongside, the impacts of development, infrastructure works and recreation,
invasive species present a growing risk to our natural environment.

Invasive plants such as Cat’s Claw Creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati), Madeira Vine (Anredera
cordifolia) and Singapore daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata) can transform natural ecosystems,
reduce natural habitats and impact rural production. Coastal weeds such as Asparagus spp.,
Glory Lily (Gloriosa superba) and Groundsel bush (Baccharis halimifolia) are problematic in
coastal dunes and wetlands. Aquatic weeds such as Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) chock natural
waterways, affecting water quality and stock watering.

Garden escapees at the urban-bushland interface put pressure on bushland reserves by
spreading exotic species beyond residential boundaries which can outcompete native plants
and change vegetation structure and habitat quality.

Pest animals including feral deer, feral pig, fox and wild dog, pose a range of threats. Feral deer
can cause vehicle collisions on roads, impact crops and fencing. Wild dogs predate stock and
native wildlife. European foxes threaten native wildlife and livestock, preying on small
mammals, birds, reptiles and sea turtle hatchlings/eggs. Feral pigs destroy habitat and water
sources, spread invasive plants and prey on marine turtle eggs.

Fire ants are a concerning biosecurity threat across southeast Queensland with active
infestations detected just outside the Noosa Shire boundary and in small, contained areas
within the shire. Infestations are a serious risk to public safety, lifestyle and the environment.

Rust and fungal disease can cause native species decline and dieback, reduce habitat for
fauna, and affect agricultural crop yields.

Many invasive plant and animal species are now naturalised and are unlikely to ever be
eradicated from Noosa Shire. While still problematic ecologically, they can perform incidental
benefits and ecosystem functions. For example, Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora)
stabilises riverbanks and gullies and Lantana (Lantana camara) provides nesting habitat for
small native birds.

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Noosa Biosecurity Plan