Two Queensland councillors have been named among the state’s nine new Biosecurity Ambassadors, who will help to champion the protection of Queensland from plant and animal pests and diseases.
The Queensland Biosecurity Ambassador Program selects key individuals from a variety of backgrounds to play a critical role in raising awareness and encouraging community participation in biosecurity measures.
The nine ambassadors have been selected from across regional Queensland and for the first time, two young ambassadors (aged 18 – 25 years) will take up the role. They will participate in up to four key events, including workshops, community meetings, agricultural shows, and industry conferences over their 18-month tenure.
Gympie Regional Council biosecurity officer, James Hannon and Goondiwindi Regional Councillor, Susie Kelly, were among the new ambassadors named.
Mr Hannon is a senior biosecurity officer with the Council, with a strong background in biosecurity awareness and preparedness, particularly in pest, weed and disease management.
He has extensive experience engaging landholders, industry, and the community through workshops and events, has a clear understanding of biosecurity threats in Queensland and promotes a shared responsibility in managing biosecurity risks.
As a Biosecurity Ambassador, he will foster partnerships across government and community sectors, advocating for protecting Queensland’s environment and industries.
Cr Kelly carries rural services and biosecurity within her Council portfolio. Her diverse background in public relations, teaching, economic development and commodity marketing with leadership roles in disaster management makes her a valuable Biosecurity Ambassador, said Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett.
“Our Biosecurity Ambassadors are passionate and engaged people who will join government to inspire others to take action, to protect our state from not only existing, but new and emerging biosecurity threats,” Minister Perrett said.
“These ambassadors represent a diverse cross-section of Queensland, including young leaders and regionally based advocates, ensuring a variety of perspectives and voices are heard.
“Biosecurity is the linchpin of Queensland’s primary industries, and the work of these new ambassadors will amplify government’s reach to raise awareness across industries and our state.
“Their work will help communities better understand the importance of biosecurity in protecting Queensland’s industries, environment, and way of life.
“Through their advocacy, our ambassadors will show Queenslanders how everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment, economy, and communities from biosecurity threats.
“I congratulate them on their appointment I have no doubt they will inspire others to adopt best practices and take practical steps to reduce risks, ensuring we safeguard Queensland’s future for generations to come.”
The full list of ambassadors can be viewed here: https://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/news-media/campaigns/biosecurity-ambassador.
Biosecurity Officer, Gympie Regional Council
