Thanks to community vigilance and our ongoing biosecurity protocols, evidence of mouse activity has been detected and confirmed in five general goods consignments delivered on the recent Island Trader voyage (B178). This included a total of five mouse droppings and minor signs of chewing on packaged items. All affected consignments were from a single supplier on the mainland.

The Island Trader vessel, jetty area, and all properties that received goods from these consignments have been thoroughly inspected and intensively monitored since Monday. 

Measures undertaken include:

• Installation and daily checking of bait stations, snap traps, and motion-sensor cameras
• Daily Biosecurity Detection Dog (BDD) searches of all relevant areas

We are pleased to report that no further signs of mouse activity have been detected on the island or aboard the Island Trader.

Evidence strongly suggests that this mouse activity originated at the supplier’s facility on the mainland. The supplier has confirmed a recent increase in mouse activity following severe weather events in the Wauchope and Port Macquarie region. Our local biosecurity team in Port Macquarie has since conducted an onsite visit to the supplier’s warehouse, observed minor mouse activity, and provided guidance and tools to improve rodent control measures.

Additionally, routine inspections before and during loading of voyage B178 identified minor rodent activity in the Birdon shed, which is believed to be unrelated to the mainland incident. The shed is subject to a comprehensive, daily pest control program, managed by contracted Biosecurity Officers.

What we’re doing in response:

To maintain biosecurity standards and prevent rodent establishment, we are:

• Continuing intensive monitoring and BDD searches at all affected sites for a minimum of five days, with a follow-up within 14 days
• Maintaining close communication with the supplier to ensure risk reduction measures remain in place
• Reviewing and strengthening BDD protocols at Birdon and during unloading operations on the island

How you can help: 

Please report any signs of rodent activity, including:

• Small, dark droppings
• Chewed packaging or food items
• Nesting materials such as shredded paper or fabric
• Strong musky odours
• Sightings of live or dead rodents

If you observe any of the above sign, or have any other concerns, please contact Team Leader Biosecurity, Darryl Birch and the LHIB Biosecurity Team immediately:

Phone: (02) 6563 2066 ext. 28

Email: [email protected]

We sincerely thank the property owners involved for their cooperation and understanding during this investigation.