Residents call for swift action as memo reveals fire ants approaching Burleigh Hill

Visitors to one of the Gold Coast’s most popular picnic spot have been blindsided by the news the area could be infested by fire ants within four short years.

BURLEIGH Hill visitors have been blindsided by the news they could be sitting in a future fire ant infestation site, calling for urgent action by city council.

A shock memo to councillors obtained by the Bulletin has revealed fire ants could infest the iconic spot and force its closure within four years unless drastic measures are taken.

Fire ants have now reached as far south as Surfers Paradise, but Oxenford resident Jayde Davis said she was unaware the pests were even in the city.

Fire ants have been spotted as far south as Surfers Paradise.

“It would be pretty concerning (if they took over Burleigh) because most people come here with children, and it’s such a beautiful place,” she said.

“If there’s going to be fire ants, you’re not going to want to bring your child here. I hadn’t heard about this at all.

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“They should do everything (to keep them out). Nobody wants them here.”

Also picnicking on Burleigh Hill yesterday, Reedy Creek resident Lee Fisher said she wanted to see swift action by officials.

“They should act swiftly,” she said.

Liliya Novekova from Robina and Lee Fisher from Reedy Creek. Picture: Glenn Hampson

“It would make us reticent to put down our picnic blankets. I think they should be proactive.

“I haven’t been bitten by one. I guess if you haven’t been bitten by one you don’t really understand it.”