This caravan unleashed a massive biosecurity scare – Learn what NOT to do!

Caravanning across the beautiful landscapes of Australia is a cherished pastime for many, especially among our seasoned adventurers over 60 who have the time and passion to explore the nooks and crannies of our vast country. However, a recent incident has highlighted a less-discussed aspect of interstate travel: the potential for inadvertently transporting invasive species, which can pose significant biosecurity threats.


The incident in question unfolded when a tourist visiting a lavender farm in Port Arthur, Tasmania, snapped a seemingly innocent photo of a frog on 27 December. The image once posted online, caught the eye of a sharp observer who recognized the frog as Peron's tree frog – an invasive species not native to Tasmania. This discovery set off alarm bells and prompted an urgent response from biosecurity authorities.


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Caravans are urged to be checked for pests before crossing state borders to prevent biosecurity risks. Credit: Australian Museum


While common in southeastern states and the ACT, the Peron's tree frog is a rarity in Tasmania and could wreak havoc on the local ecosystem if it were to establish a population. Introducing non-native species can lead to competition with indigenous wildlife, potentially displacing or even leading to the extinction of native species. Moreover, these invaders often carry diseases to which local species have no immunity, further endangering their survival.


This particular frog's journey to Tasmania is believed to have been an accidental one, likely hitching a ride on a vehicle or caravan crossing state borders. Clare Dean from Port Arthur Lavender, where the frog was found, told Yahoo News that the proximity of the sighting to the car park suggested vehicular transport. This mode of travel for pests is not new; cane toads, for example, have expanded their territory in Australia by catching rides on interstate vehicles.

The incident underscores the importance of thorough vehicle checks before embarking on interstate travel. The Invasive Species Council has advised caravanners to inspect both the interior and exterior of their vehicles before crossing state lines. Biosecurity Tasmania, which cannot inspect every vehicle entering the state, relies on travellers to ensure their vehicles are clean and free of stowaways.

The story took a surprising turn when, against all odds, the elusive frog was found two weeks after the initial sighting. Thanks to the keen eyes of a 13-year-old girl, Estelle, who accompanied the biosecurity team, the frog was located and captured. The team, including Debbie from Biosecurity Tasmania, was astonished by the successful retrieval of the frog, which was safely contained for further examination.


For our readers who enjoy caravanning, this serves as a cautionary tale and a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect Australia's unique biodiversity. Before you set off on your next adventure, take a moment to check your caravan for any unwanted hitchhikers. It's not just about keeping your vehicle clean; it's about safeguarding the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
Key Takeaways
  • An invasive Peron's tree frog was discovered in Tasmania, highlighting a significant biosecurity risk.
  • The frog was believed to be a stowaway, possibly carried over on a vehicle or caravan from mainland Australia.
  • Caravanners and vehicle owners are encouraged to check for any stowaways before crossing state borders to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
  • Biosecurity Tasmania was alerted through social media, and the frog was successfully captured, highlighting the importance of public vigilance and reporting.
We at the Seniors Discount Club encourage you to share your experiences and tips on how you ensure your vehicle is pest-free when traveling. Your insights could help others prevent similar biosecurity scares and contribute to the preservation of our natural heritage. Have you ever encountered a stowaway on your travels? Let us know in the comments below!
 

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