Mosquito warning across Tweed

With the recent heavy rain, Council is calling on residents to do their bit to reduce the impact of mosquitoes in the region.  

Council’s Program Leader Environmental Protection Elleni Stewart said the wet weather had created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.  

“Mosquitoes need water to breed, and some mosquitoes can breed in very small amounts of water,” Ms Stewart said.  

“To reduce mozzies around your home, empty all water-holding containers such as buckets, old tyres, poorly aligned roof gutters and pot plant holders. It is very important you don’t let your home become a haven for mosquitoes and their larvae.” 

Residents are also encouraged to take action to avoid mosquito bites during summer and warmer months. 

“Cover up as much as possible with long loose-fitting clothing and use an effective repellent on your skin or cover your clothes with repellent,” Ms Stewart said.

Other things you can do to make your house and yard mosquito safe are: 

• Keep your yard well-maintained, mow lawns regularly and limit areas of dense vegetation
• Ensure you cover all windows, doors, chimneys, vents and other entrances with insect screens that are in good condition 
• Clean up your yard and remove all water-holding containers or rubbish and keep house gutters clean and properly aligned 
• Ensure all openings to water tanks and septic tanks are screened securely 
• Place sand or fine gravel in pot plant trays, or flush them out weekly 
• Empty and refill pet water bowls and bird baths weekly 
• Keep ornamental ponds stocked with native fish species that will feed on larvae.

For more information visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes