A control order has just come into force for the invasive weed Chinese violet, thanks to the perseverance of weed authorities in the Hunter region.
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Chinese violet poses a serious threat to our environment and agricultural industries as it can completely smother other vegetation, removing habitat and reducing biodiversity and productivity.
It is a rapidly growing perennial creeper that spreads by seed and plant fragments and can flower and fruit all year round.
There are established infestations around Stockton, Anna Bay and Nelson Bay, but there are also known isolated incursions in Lake Macquarie and Maitland council areas.
Hunter Regional Weeds Committee recently applied for and successfully had the control order gazetted by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, to provide strengthened legal support for the weed's eradication.
Hunter Local Land Services general manager Brett Miners said it's a great success for the committee and local weeds authorities.
"This is the first gazettal of its kind in NSW since the creation of the Biosecurity Act in 2015 and will provide additional clout in the fight against Chinese violet," Mr Miners said.
"On top of the gazettal, Hunter Local Land Services is supporting local councils to implement a collaborative eradication plan for our region, investing $85,000 this year in control activities and community awareness.
"Targeting priority weeds and working together across the community is the best chance we have at containing and eradicating invasive species such as Chinese violet."
Hunter weeds authorities are also working closely with neighbouring regions to stop the spread of this weed across the State.
"Weeds officers from the North Coast are visiting our region to learn more about Chinese violet, to help in their identification and eradication planning for their region," Mr Miners said.
"Under the Biosecurity Act every landholder, large or small, has a responsibility to control pest animals and weeds - and this has never been more important as we seek to contain and eradicate damaging invasive species such as Chinese violet from our region."
For more information about Chinese violet, visit the Department of Primary Industries web site.
