Restoring Land Health by Managing Invasive Weeds

Hub Node Reef Catchments, in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and supported by the TNQ Drought Hub, recently delivered a two-day Invasive Weeds Workshop in Mackay on 25–26 June, helping local landholders and industry professionals build practical skills to manage invasive grass species and improve land condition. 

The workshop brought together DPI experts, local landcare groups, council representatives, agronomists, and landholders to tackle the challenges of invasive grass weeds, including Giant Rats Tail Grass, Grader Grass, and Gamba Grass—species that can reduce pasture productivity and increase drought vulnerability.

DPI Senior Principal Scientist Wayne Vogler led sessions on identifying key invasive grasses and understanding their ecology and management, while DPI Scientist Katrina Hodgson-Kratky shared updates on biocontrol research currently being trialled to help reduce the impact of these species. DPI Beef Extension Officer Grayson Jones highlighted the importance of monitoring and maintaining land condition to support pasture resilience, even during dry times.

Day 1 saw around 40 industry professionals attend, gaining in-depth insights into species identification, fire risk, and integrated management approaches, including a field trip. Day 2 welcomed 20 local landholders, who engaged in practical discussions on weed control using herbicides, biocontrol, and improved pasture management, sharing challenges and experiences across the room.

The event showcased years of DPI research while equipping attendees with the tools and knowledge to manage invasive grasses effectively within their farming systems, supporting healthier pastures and better drought preparedness across the region.

Reef Catchments Drought Resilience Coordinator, Louise Fitzgerald said, “With a successful two day event and identifying a need for more information for our local landholders around Invasive grasses identification and management, we look forward to being able to partner with the DPI in future to bring another event to the region.”

JULY 2025