The popular Gamba Action Program (GAP) to control the growth and spread of the invasive weed Gamba Grass through herbicide and spray equipment loans to landholders is set to close on 29 April 2017.

More than 1500 Territorians have already obtained free herbicide and spray equipment loans through the GAP.

Freds Pass Reserve is one of the most popular outlets, which is open from 7.30am to 5.30pm today for the last full day.

Further opportunities to collect herbicide will still be available in the mornings and afternoons up until 29 April 2017.

“The critical time for treating Gamba grass is fast running out,” said Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) weed management acting director Brett Easton.

“The grass will be flowering soon and then spreading seed.

“It is pleasing to see there has been an enormous increase in treatment across the Top End this year.”

Uncontrolled Gamba Grass poses a serious threat to life, property and native wildlife from the devastating effects of wildfires.

“Every inch of control is worth it”, said Mr Easton, who thanked those Territorians who have made the most of the GAP so far this Wet Season.

“We’ve had one of the wettest Wet Seasons on record and this can lead to severe and intense wildfires across the Top End this Dry Season.”

Landholders can still help avoid wildfires by controlling the growth and spread of gamba grass, and eradicating all isolated plants and outbreaks on their property.

Limited herbicide and spray equipment loans are still available from:

·        Freds Pass Sport and Recreation Reserve, Bees Creek - 0427272586

·        Douglas Daly Research Farm - 89782442

·        Katherine Weed Management Depot - 89738857

·        Coomalie Community Government Council, Batchelor - 89760058

·        Bushfires NT, Batchelor - 89760098

·        Territory Wildlife Park, Berry Springs - 0401114912

·        Beatrice Hill Volunteer Fire Brigade - 0447074432

·        Dundee Beach, Paul Brown – 89782107

·        Wagait Shire Council, Garry Zikan - 0427133959

“Fuel loads will reach dangerous levels without active control in the Wet Season, so please act quickly by accessing the resources provided through the GAP.”

Go to www.nt.gov.au/gamba for more information about free herbicide and equipment loans.

Ends

Media Note - For further information / interview please contact Brett Easton on 8999 4414.