Greenlife Industry Queensland (GIQ) has formally launched the Fire Ant Ready Program, giving nursery businesses across Queensland access to practical support, tools and on-ground guidance to manage fire ant risk.

This program – and the dedicated support behind it – is the result of sustained advocacy by GIQ to ensure our industry has the resources it needs to respond to the growing fire ant threat.

As part of the program, we’re pleased to introduce Brendan Roe, our new Fire Ant Program Officer. Brendan has already been out on the ground meeting members, attending FEA sessions and Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce (FAST) meetings, and connecting with industry at our recent Brisbane Trade Day.

Access the Fire Ant Ready Hub

The Fire Ant Ready Hub is your central place to understand fire ant risks, your obligations, and the practical steps needed to protect your business.

Through the hub, you can book a Fire Ant support visit – on-site mentoring sessions designed to help you:

• Understand your legal obligations when moving regulated materials
• Identify fire ants and recognise risks to your business
• Learn how fire ants spread through industry activities
• Get guidance on treatment, handling, record keeping and transport requirements
• Take practical steps to reduce risk on your site
• Know what to do if fire ants are suspected or found

These visits are supportive and educational – not audits or compliance inspections. The goal is to provide clarity, confidence, and practical next steps tailored to your operation.

Visit the Fire Ant Ready Hub

Why This Matters

Fire ants continue to spread across Queensland, posing a serious and growing challenge to nurseries and production businesses. The best defence is being prepared before they arrive—or having the right support if you’re already affected.

Who It’s For

• Outside the fire ant zone? Get ahead and protect your business
• Inside the zone? Access support if you’re unsure what to do or need guidance—particularly for smaller or newer businesses

What You’ll Get

• Practical, tailored guidance to become Fire Ant Ready
• Access to tools, resources, and clear next steps
• Direct, on-ground support from Brendan

Meet Brendan Roe, Fire Ant Program Officer

Brendan brings experience across the horticulture and biosecurity sectors, having worked as an agronomist and most recently as a Biosecurity Officer with the Department of Primary Industries.

With a background in agricultural science and strong connections to primary industries, Brendan understands the challenges facing growers and the importance of protecting Queensland’s greenlife sector from biosecurity threats.

He will be working closely with industry to support Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA) preparedness through communication, education and on-site visits.

Take the Next Step

Visit the Fire Ant Ready Hub and book your support today.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your situation, you can also reach out to Brendan directly via email.
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