Sailboats spark spike in exotic pests sneaking into Australia
Darwin, Airlie Beach flagged as first points of entry for sailboats travelling in from international watersThe Australian Government has flagged a crackdown on cruising sailboats entering Australian waters after finding an increasing number of weird and wonderful creatures were hitching a ride.
The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment said today about 500 boats sailed into Australian waters every year, with a marked recent increase in the number of boats arriving with biosecurity risks on board.
“Just recently biosecurity officers found a live gecko, an exotic ant, a spider and termites during an inspection of a yacht arriving into Darwin,” DAWE biosecurity head Lyn O’Connell said.
“Live geckos are a risk because they may carry pests or disease that could affect our unique native reptiles.
“Exotic ants, spiders and termites are a risk because they could damage infrastructure, affect our homes and way of life and damage our natural environment.”
O’Connell said the pests stowing away onboard yachts were usually small and well-hidden.
“Sailors should keep an eye out for them and report before or on arrival anything they see.
“The Australian Government is always exploring opportunities for yachts to help manage the associated biosecurity risks.”
First point of entry
The government has established Coral Sea Marina at Airlie Beach as the first point of entry for non-commercial vessels such as sailboats that have been cruising international waters.
“First points of entry are ports that have facilities and procedures that are critical to prevent pests and diseases entering and establishing in Australia,” O’Connell said.
“This means international yachts and superyachts are now able to have their first Australian port of call in Airlie Beach.”
Improvements to the Port of Darwin has also set it up as a first point of entry for cruising yachts.
“There are strict biosecurity conditions for all boats that arrive into Australia, including entering through a designated first point of entry, mandatory reporting and inspection by biosecurity officers,” DAWE said.
“All vessel operators, both recreational and professional, should familiarise themselves with Australia’s biosecurity and reporting requirements.”
Australia has recently cleared red tape for foreign superyachts keen to tap into Australia's coastline in time for this year's Japan-based Olympics and next year's America's Cup challenge.
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