Mosquitoes

The City is involved in mosquito research and management on public land but residents are responsible for management on their own property. 

Mosquitoes pass on diseases including Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus. Pets are also at risk of contracting heartworm from parasitic worms passed on by mosquitoes.

Minimise the impact of mosquitoes

Take simple preventative safety measures whilst outdoors such as:

• Applying personal insect repellent (read directions for safe application)
• Covering up by wearing light coloured loose-fitting long sleeve shirts and long pants
• Avoiding outdoor exposure to mosquitoes from dusk and the first few hours after dark

Minimise breeding sources on your property such as: 

• Stagnant fish ponds and swimming pools
• Pot plants that hold water
• Inside stems of certain plants
• Containers like wheel barrows, wading pools, bird baths and tyres
• Turn over small boats or cover with a tarp and ensure it does not collect water
• Keep drains and gutters clean so water will drain

Deter mosquitos by:

• Ensuring fly screens are fitted and well maintained on doors and windows
• Aerate ornamental pools with a fountain or stock them with fish
• Use yellow light bulbs for outdoor lighting during times of high mosquito numbers
• Planting mosquito deterant plants such as Catnip (Nepata cataria), Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), Basil, Lavender (Lavandula species), Marigolds, Oregano, Parsley or Thyme. Effectiveness of plants as a natural mosquito deterrent requires more scientific evidence and may vary between mosquito species

For more information on how to minimise the impact of mosquitoes please view the documents below.