Drones could be used within five years to help Redland City Council manage mosquito numbers across Redlands Coast.

Mayor Karen Williams said this was an option being explored as part of Council’s Mosquito Management Action Plan for 2019-2024.

“The health and wellbeing of Redlands Coast residents is a priority for Council and this includes managing and reducing mosquitoes in our region,” Cr Williams said.

“The onset of summer brings with it an increase in mozzies and this Action Plan includes a variety of activities to help reduce mosquitoes across Redlands Coast.

“Council employees are currently working with the Queensland Mosquito and Arbovirus Research Committee on Pannikin Island to explore the effectiveness of drones in enhancing mosquito treatment practises.

“While traditional methods to control mosquitoes with environmentally safe chemicals are important, drones can collect aerial images of mosquito breeding pools, allowing the use of aerial treatments to be more targeted and effective.”

“Other infield software and technology are also a big part of the Action Plan, with Council investigating the use of tidal sensors to gather data on tide and rain events, as well as Biogent traps, to provide live data on mosquito numbers and species across the city.“

Regional Mosquito Management Group chairman and Division 3 Councillor Paul Golle said the Action Plan, endorsed by Council, was the blueprint for effective mosquito control over the next five years.

“The Action Plan supports better community education and engagement regarding Council’s pest management activities, with Council liaising with local businesses and residents through site visits and at local events,” he said.

“While Council is committed to working with Queensland Health and neighbouring Councils to do our part, residents can help reduce mosquito numbers on their property by removing containers such as empty garden pots, saucers and wheelbarrows where water can pool.”