Mosquito Management

The Shire of Dardanup participates in a comprehensive mosquito management program to help reduce mosquito numbers and minimise the risk of mosquito-borne diseases within the community, including Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus.

The Shire is a member of the Leschenault Contiguous Local Authorities Group (CLAG), a partnership between the Shire of Dardanup, Shire of Harvey and City of Bunbury. Through this partnership, resources are pooled to deliver coordinated mosquito monitoring and treatment programs across the region.

For more information about mosquito treatment or Ross River Virus, please refer to the following link:

Fight the Bite info

Protecting yourself from mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk and can transmit diseases such as Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus. To reduce your risk of mosquito bites:

  • Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity periods, particularly at dawn and dusk.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and long trousers.
  • Apply an insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, following the manufacturer's instructions. Only use insect repellents suitable for children and follow the product label instructions. The best protection for babies and young children is protective clothing, bed nets or other forms of insect screening.  

Reducing mosquitoes around your home

Residents can help reduce mosquito numbers around their property by:

  • Removing standing water from around the home.
  • Cleaning gutters and emptying containers that collect water.
  • Changing water in bird baths, pet bowls and stock troughs regularly.
  • Ensuring rainwater tanks are fitted with mosquito-proof mesh.
  • Keeping lawns and vegetation well maintained.
  • Installing insect screens to doors, windows and outdoor living areas.

By taking these simple steps, residents can help reduce mosquito breeding and minimise mosquito activity around their homes.

 

Pests

Rodents

Rodents can pose a health risk and may cause damage to buildings, gardens and stored goods. Property owners can help prevent rodent infestations by reducing access to food, water and shelter.

To reduce rodent activity around your property:

  • Remove unwanted materials, rubbish, timber piles and other items that may provide harbourage.
  • Keep vegetation trimmed and remove overgrown areas where rodents may shelter.
  • Collect fallen fruit, nuts and vegetables from gardens and yards.
  • Ensure compost bins and heaps are covered and protected from rodent access.
  • Keep pet feeding areas clean and avoid leaving excess food out overnight.
  • Store pet food, poultry feed and bird seed in sealed, rodent-proof containers.
  • Regularly clean chicken coops, aviaries and animal enclosures.
  • Use traps where rodent activity is suspected.
  • Seal gaps and entry points around buildings, including around pipes, air-conditioning services and electrical conduits. Do not block weep holes or ventilation openings.
  • Install wire mesh or similar screening to open eaves and other access points where rodents may enter roof spaces.

If rodent activity continues despite preventative measures, consider engaging a licensed pest management technician to undertake professional pest control treatments.