1080 baiting program

Eligible banana growers in the Tully and Innisfail regions are encouraged to take advantage of a new subsidy program aimed at reducing feral pig numbers.

Feral pigs remain one of the most significant biosecurity threats facing the North Queensland banana industry. In addition to causing extensive damage to crops, fences and the natural environment, they are a recognised vector of Panama TR4, capable of moving contaminated soil between properties as they travel, wallow and forage.

Feral pig damage costs Australian agriculture more than $100 million each year, highlighting the importance of coordinated control efforts and consistent management actions.

The Australian Banana Growers' Council (ABGC) has continued to invest in regional feral pig management, coordinating an industry-funded aerial shooting program in late 2025. Feedback following the aerial shoot highlighted that growers were keen to see additional support for baiting programs, recognising that no single control method is effective on its own.

ABGC is now offering subsidies to eligible banana growers in the Tully and Innisfail regions to assist with professional feral pig baiting services. Eligibility is based on proximity to known TR4 detections, with subsidies calculated on a scaled model. ABGC has partnered with experienced pest management provider Boar Busters to deliver the baiting program.

ABGC recognises that effective long-term feral pig management requires an integrated approach combining aerial shooting, baiting and trapping. Working together across neighbouring properties and using multiple control methods provides the best opportunity to reduce pig numbers and protect banana farms from ongoing damage and biosecurity threats.

Growers interested in participating should first contact ABGC to confirm their eligibility and the level of subsidy available. The team can then advise of next steps.