Senior veterinary officer Dr David Pitt said the survey was launched in August 2009 as part of an Australian Biosecurity CRC (Cooperative Research Centre) project, which targeted 15 Regional Council Shires adjacent to the coastline from Rockhampton to the Northern Territory border.

“Our officers have greatly appreciated the cooperation of the 243 respondents representing stock numbers from two to 50,000 head who were selected at random to participate in the 10 minute questionnaire,” Dr Pitt said.

“Screw worm fly is endemic in neighbouring Papua New Guinea and South-East Asian countries so it was gratifying to learn that more than 70 per cent of the producers surveyed are well aware of the immediate threat.

“Any kind of wound in domestic livestock, native or feral animals is at risk of screw worm fly strike if this pest invades our country.”

Queensland Biosecurity and private veterinarians rely on the vigilance and husbandry experience of our front line livestock producers to report suspected exotic disease problems including screw worm fly.

Dr Pitt said the survey showed that cattle producers were most concerned at the increasing incidence of dingo attacks on more remote properties in Cape York and the Gulf Country where a screw work fly invasion could go unnoticed for some time.

“There are similar risks from dog attacks around cities and along the coastal strip near export ports,” he said.

“By looking at the wide range of influencing factors such as on-farm management practices, the regional environment and reporting options, the survey will help identify how and where the screw work fly risk is greatest.

“We will also gain information on how screw worm fly could be relocated to other areas and this will enable Biosecurity Queensland officers to better target on-farm extension activities and media alerts.”

Dr Pitt said analysis of the survey results was underway and should be finalised early next year to progress proposed extension programs.