| Page 34 hen it comes to managing weeds, early action can make all the difference – not just for today, but for the future of our region’s farms and landscapes. Not too long ago, biosecurity and weeds services were delivered through the New England Weeds Authority. Today, those services sit directly within Armidale Regional Council, with the same experienced staff now part of council’s dedicated Weeds and Biosecurity team. For landholders, that transition has meant simpler access to advice and on the ground support when it matters most. For Michael Jackson, a property owner near Guyra, that support has been invaluable. When Michael noticed weeds emerging near the front entrance of his property, he knew early identification was critical. Weeds at property entrances are often the first point of spread carried in by vehicles, stock, machinery or visitors. And if left unmanaged, they can quickly move deeper into paddocks and neighbouring land. “I was pretty unsure of what I was looking at,” said Michael. “I contacted council and Anne, a council biosecurity officer, helped me identify the plants and talked through practical options for controlling them early.” Rather than waiting until the weeds became widespread and difficult to manage, Michael chose to act straight away. “Protecting the value of the property and ensuring it remains productive and healthy for the generations who will inherit it is a priority for me,” said Michael. “By managing weeds early, I can prevent them from spreading further across the farm and beyond, reducing longterm impacts on agriculture, neighbouring properties and the local environment.” This proactive approach reflects the core aim of council’s biosecurity service: working alongside landholders to inspect, identify and advise on practical control options for weeds before they take hold. Council encourages landholders across the region to regularly check property entrances, fence lines and high traffic areas, and to contact council if they need help identifying or managing weeds. Early action is key to stopping the spread and safeguarding our region for generations to come. W Weed How early action can help protect farms, neighbours and the environment watch Weeds advice available at the customer service desk This service allows landholders and residents to ask questions, seek advice, and get help identifying weeds all before problems escalate. To make support even more accessible, council’s biosecurity and weeds officer is available to assist residents in person at both Guyra and Armidale. Guyra Civic Administration Building Last Wednesday of each month. 10am – 12noon. Armidale Civic Administration Building Second Thursday of each month. 9am – 11am. Tip: If bringing a weed sample, please keep it sealed in a bag or container.
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