Broome bug buster commended for quarantine commitment

Pest controller Scott Trudgian is a man who takes his work very seriously — luckily for the people of Western Australia.

Scott, an employee of Kimberley Bug Busters, was called to a Broome home in November last year when the owner noticed insect damage in the wooden beading under a windowsill.

“The unusual damage gave me initial cause for concern”, Scott says. “When I manage to extract live insects from the timber, I realised that this was something that needed immediate attention from the experts.” 

Quarantine entomologists proved Scott’s instinct correct when they identified the pest as Heterobostrychus aequalis, the lesser auger beetle, known for its voracious appetite for sapwood. 

Normally found in India, Asia, South Africa and the Middle East, the lesser auger beetle is a regular hitchhiker to Australia. It has yet to become established, however, with the last recorded outbreak in Queensland in 1959, where it has since died out.

Craig Brockway, Senior Quarantine Officer in Broome, says, “Scott’s discovery triggered an immediate, and thorough examination of the rest of the timber in the house, and a trace back of the original timber consignment.

“Fortunately, in this instance, our investigations proved that the beetles Scott recovered were travelling solo and were confined to the single piece of timber."

Scott’s actions have earned him a nomination for a Quarantine Certificate of Commendation, which is the first step in the process to the prestigious National Quarantine Award. 

“Scott’s efforts illustrate that quarantine is an important responsibility shared between AQIS and the local community,” says Craig. “Our task is made easier by the co-operation and support of all Australians.”

Scott was delighted to hear of his nomination, saying, “I knew an incident like this could prove serious – the last thing we want is a new wood boring insect munching its way through the Kimberley!”

Quarantine Certificates of Commendation are presented throughout the year and recognise the special efforts of individuals, groups and companies who help to protect Australia’s unique natural environment and valuable agricultural industries from exotic pests and diseases.

For more information about the awards, or to nominate someone who has made an important contribution to quarantine, contact AQIS on 9311 5333 or visit the website at www.aqis.gov.au/awards

Media contact:

Jen O’Reilly DAFF Media +61 2 6272 3232

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