1080 baiting program
The Australian Banana Growers’ Council is offering subsidies for 1080 baiting to eligible growers in the Innisfail and Tully regions. Feral pigs are a known vector of Panama TR4, making their management a critical part of reducing Panama TR4 spread and protecting banana farms. ABGC recognises that effective long-term feral pig management requires an integrated approach combining aerial shooting, baiting and trapping.
About the baiting program
Who is providing the 1080 baiting services?
ABGC have engaged Boar Busters to deliver 1080 baiting. Boar Busters, based in Mission Beach, has delivered licensed feral pig control and 1080 baiting programs across Far North Queensland since 2005, with over 20,000 hours of field experience.
Can I get the 1080 baiting subsidy?
The subsidy is available to banana growers within the 38 km buffer zone. This is a zone established around known TR4 infested properties to help monitor and manage the risk of disease spread. It includes Tully and some areas of Innisfail. Contact ABGC’s GS(Bio) team to check your eligibility.
How much support will I get from this program?
ABGC will contribute a percentage of the total 1080 baiting cost to help reduce the financial burden on growers. The level of subsidy will vary depending on the total cost of the baiting program. The table provides an indication of ABGC’s financial contribution to the baiting program.
| Total cost $ (per property) | ABGC's subsidy % (per property) |
|---|---|
| 0-500 | 60 |
| 501-1000 | 37 |
| 1001-1750 | 21 |
| 1751-2500 | 15 |
| 2501-3000 | 12 |
| Above 3000 | Fixed $300 |
If you are interested in the 1080 baiting services on your property, you will need to submit an Expression of Interest. It is on a ‘first come first served’ basis as there is a limited budget. The information you provide will only be used for program administration and will only be shared with the approved service provider where consent has been provided.
Frequently asked questions about baiting
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Baiting is a method used to reduce the population of feral pigs in an area. Poisoned food baits are placed in specific locations where feral pigs are likely to find and eat them, which humanely kills them.
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1080 is a type of poison used in baits to control invasive pests such as feral pigs. Many of Australia’s native animals have a natural tolerance to 1080, while invasive species like feral pigs, are generally more susceptible.
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In Queensland, there are strict laws around using 1080 baits. Under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014, 1080 baits are considered Schedule 7 poison, meaning that only an Authorised Person is allowed to handle, prepare and lay 1080 baits.
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Yes. Baiting is an effective way to reduce feral pig numbers when carried out properly. For best results, baiting should be used alongside aerial and ground shooting, and trapping.
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Yes, however, while most native animals have a tolerance to 1080, the poison is dangerous to dogs. It's recommended that dogs are restrained from roaming freely, muzzled when working, and owners heed warning signs when baiting is occurring.