Hiptage Management Program – Mossman Area

Douglas Shire Council (DSC) is continuing its targeted management of Hiptage benghalensis, a highly invasive environmental weed affecting parts of the Mossman area.

Listed as a restricted invasive plant under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014, Hiptage poses a serious threat to local rainforests, waterways and ecosystems. It spreads rapidly, smothering native vegetation, disrupting habitat, and causing long-term environmental damage if left unmanaged.

DSC is actively controlling known infestations through coordinated surveillance, treatment and monitoring, working closely with landholders and key stakeholders. Early detection is critical to stopping its spread and protecting high-value natural areas.

To strengthen detection efforts, Douglas Shire Council will soon trial drone surveys across the Mossman area. These trials will assess how effectively aerial imagery can be used identify Hiptage infestations. Flight dates will be confirmed and published here on this webpage.

Funding to conduct the trials is being provided by the Queensland Government’s Natural Resources Investment Program, through Terrain NRM.

Residents can play an important role in managing this destructive weed. This Fact Sheet provides more information about the plant, and tips on how to spot it on your property.

If you believe you have identified Hiptage either on your property, or in the neighbourhood, please report the location by calling 4099 9444 or emailing enquiries@douglas.qld.gov.au

Dates for drone trials will be published here.