Grant delivery commences, combatting invasive weeds - Kudzu and Red Cestrum.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council has commenced on-ground works for two projects funded by Local land Service’s Good Neighbours Program, targeting priority weed species in both the Comboyne district and the Killabakh Nature Reserve locality. These projects, delivered in partnership with North Coast Local Land Services, aim to reduce the impact and spread of Kudzu near Comboyne and Red Cestrum around Killabakh – two invasive weeds that pose significant risks to native vegetation, private landholders, and downstream environments.
Work has commenced
Work is now underway using a combination of mechanical, manual and herbicide-based control treatments, with all methods selected to suit local site conditions and minimise off-target impacts. Mechanical removal, targeted spraying, cut‑and‑paint techniques and follow‑up suppression works are being applied with support from specialist contractors and participating landholders.
Both projects include detailed monitoring to define the full extent of each infestation, supported by collaborative partnerships with affected landowners, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, MidCoast Council, and other stakeholders. This coordinated approach strengthens cross‑tenure management, which is an essential part of meeting each landholder’s General Biosecurity Duty and protecting the ecological values of the Hastings region.
Over the coming months, Council will continue delivering staged treatments and follow‑up visits to maintain momentum and help prevent re‑establishment of these invasive weeds. The Good Neighbours Program provides valuable support for shared biosecurity outcomes, and these current projects represent an important step toward long-term protection of our local landscapes.
Interested in reading more about Kudzu or Cestrum? Read our blog articles:
Weed of the Month: Kudzu
Weed of the Month: Cestrum
