Biting Midge and Mosquitoes

Mosquito Management and Prevention

Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance, they can carry and spread infectious diseases, including Ross River virus. To help reduce the risk to the community, Council's Vector Control Officers conduct regular surveillance through weekly mosquito trapping program. They also inspect public watercourses, reserves, and commercial areas, applying treatments as needed to prevent mosquito breeding.

Under public health legislation, property owners and residents also have a responsibility to assist in preventing mosquito infestations on their own premises.

 Tips to Help Reduce or Eliminate Mosquitoes on Your Property:

• Regularly dispose of any accumulated water.
• Place sand around the base of pot plants to absorb excess water.
• Remove or dispose of any items that can collect and hold water (e.g., old tires, buckets, containers).
• Empty and refresh birdbaths and pet drinking water frequently.
• Wipe the inside of water-holding containers to eliminate mosquito eggs.
• Ensure all openings to water tanks, wells, or large containers are properly screened.
• Clean leaves and debris from roof gutters regularly to prevent water pooling.
• Keep swimming pools properly chlorinated and maintained.
• Stock ornamental ponds with fish that feed on mosquito larvae.

By following these simple but effective steps, you can help prevent mosquitoes from breeding and protect your household and the wider community from mosquito-borne diseases.  For more information, CLICK HERE

Biting Midge Awareness and Prevention

Biting midges are small flying insects attracted to human activity. They often rest on screens, fences, and vegetation, especially near homes and gardens.

In the Fraser Coast region, biting midges are most active during the warmer months from September to April with peak activity occurring at dawn and dusk.

The discomfort caused by biting midges is due to allergens in their saliva, which can trigger reactions in people with varying levels of sensitivity or immunity. These reactions can range from mild itching to more severe allergic responses, affecting overall health and wellbeing.

Tips to Help Reduce Exposure to Biting Midges:

• Wear light-coloured, protective clothing when outdoors during peak activity times.
• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing when outside.
• Install fine-mesh screens on windows and doors to prevent midges from entering your home (look for mesh with a smaller gauge than standard fly screens).
• Use mosquito coils or insecticide burners (tablet or liquid) to deter midges in outdoor areas.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and your family from the discomfort and irritation caused by biting midges, especially during the high-activity months.  CLICK HERE for more information.

Managing Non-Biting Midges

Non-biting midges are harmless but can become a significant nuisance especially in residential areas near wetlands due to their attraction to light.

During the summer months, these insects seek out cool, shady areas during the day and are often drawn in large numbers to artificial lights at night. Their presence can lead to stains on light-coloured surfaces and clogging of vehicle radiators, headlights, and air-conditioning units.

Tips to Help Reduce the Impact of Non-Biting Midges:

• Use darker colours for external walls, fences, and outdoor surfaces to minimize visible staining.
• Shield or screen light sources wherever possible to reduce attraction at night.

While non-biting midges do not pose a health risk, taking these simple steps can help reduce their impact on your home, vehicles, and daily comfort during peak activity periods.