For fruit growers across Far North Queensland, some insects are far more than an unpleasant surprise. Hidden amongst orchard canopies, the banana-spotting bug (Amblypelta lutescens lutescens) has been quietly damaging valuable crops for decades, leaving scars beneath the skin of avocado, citrus, mango, passionfruit, custard apple and more.
The Gulf’s rugged ranges have revealed another remarkable secret, with scientists formally describing three previously unknown species of rock monitor after years of fieldwork and genetic research.
Work is continuing to tackle invasive weeds across the Mitchell River catchment, with aerial surveys helping land managers identify priority infestations left in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
From restoring threatened ecosystems to improving agricultural productivity, many of the decisions shaping Australia’s landscapes begin with a single question: what is the data telling us?
In North Queensland’s remotest corners, drone technology is giving conservationists and graziers an unprecedented view of the Great Artesian Basin (GAB) springs, helping guide restoration across some of the region’s most fragile ecosystems.
As Varroa mite continues to sweep the globe and threaten beekeeping businesses everywhere, Gulf Savannah NRM is preparing locals with the support of renowned industry experts.
Recently appointed Agriculture Project Officer Karen Dugmore said the project aims to help producers better understand regenerative farming practices while supporting the long-term sustainability of enterprises across the region.
Delivered by Gulf Savannah NRM (GSNRM) in partnership with Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC), the program reinforces growing evidence that aerial shooting can be significantly more effective than traditional on ground methods and should play a central role in feral pig management across Australia.
The Gulf Savannah NRM field team has hit the ground running, completing two successful field trips to the Gilbert River, near Georgetown, to survey the landscape, identify access points, and map native vegetation as part of a project to tackle threats from invasive neem trees along the Gilbert River.
Northern quolls are endangered carnivorous marsupials found only in Australia and are considered one of the country’s most struggling native predators. Once widespread across northern Australia, the species has experienced significant declines over recent decades due to threats including cane toads, habitat loss, feral predators, and inappropriate fire regimes.
