Helicopters buzzed over Tingalpa Creek, as the first aerial mosquito sprays of the season took place across Brisbane’s bayside suburbs. Around 500 hectares were sprayed to curb early outbreaks of saltmarsh mosquitoes that had emerged after recent rainfall.
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The operation, which took off from Myrtletown Reserve on 30 October 2025, focused on coastal and creek areas including Port of Brisbane, Tingalpa, Hemmant, and the waterways around Bulimba and Tingalpa creeks. Mud Island, St Helena Island, and Green Island were also included in the program.
Brisbane’s entomology team said the sprays were scheduled when mosquito hatching activity was detected. The work was part of an extensive mosquito management programme that ran throughout the year to keep pest numbers under control and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Chief Entomologist Dr Martin Shivas said mosquito activity tended to rise sharply once the warmer months arrived. He explained that the combination of heat, rainfall and king tides between December and March created ideal conditions for breeding, and that the timing and intensity of each season depended on these environmental factors.
Dr Shivas added that while the team worked continuously on ground treatments across more than 2,400 freshwater breeding sites, aerial spraying was carried out whenever there was a significant saltmarsh hatch. Each year’s mosquito season, he said, presents different challenges depending on rainfall, tides and temperature, with aerial and ground treatments scheduled accordingly.
Last season, Brisbane conducted 12 aerial treatments between October and March, covering more than 16,000 hectares. With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting above-average rainfall for southeast Queensland over the following months, local residents were encouraged to do their part in minimising breeding grounds around their homes.
How residents can prepare for the mosquito season
Residents can take simple but effective steps to reduce mosquito numbers over the coming season. They should empty water-holding containers such as buckets, pot plant saucers and bird baths, which can quickly become breeding sites after rain. It also helps to ensure gutters are clear of leaves and that rainwater tank openings are properly screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
When mosquitoes are active, residents are advised to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs, and to apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Limiting time outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active can further reduce the risk of bites. Additional protection can come from using mosquito coils, lanterns or insecticide emanators during outdoor activities.
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By following these steps, bayside residents, from Manly to Tingalpa, Hemmant and beyond, can help reduce mosquito numbers over the summer and enjoy the outdoors with fewer of the season’s unwelcome visitors.
Published 3-November-2025
