The Wye to Wongarra Landcare Group recently hosted a highly successful community workshop and on-ground biocontrol release event targeting the invasive coastal weed sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias).
The event brought together 30 participants from across the region to learn about and directly contribute to a new, science-based approach to weed management.
Sea spurge is a significant threat to Australia’s coastal ecosystems, smothering dunes and impacting sensitive habitats, including nesting sites for shorebirds. In response, CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has developed a highly specific biocontrol agent, the naturally occurring fungus Venturia paralias, which reduces plant growth, seed production and spread over time.
Participants attended a seminar at the Wye Beach Hotel on the science behind the biocontrol program before heading to local infestation sites at Petticoat Creek and Sugarloaf, where they were trained to safely prepare and apply the fungal agent. In total, two release sites were established, with multiple applications of the fungus carried out on the day.
The event forms part of a broader national program led by CSIRO and supported by the Australian Government, which aims to achieve widespread establishment of the fungus and long-term suppression of sea spurge populations through coordinated, community-led action.
Beyond the practical outcomes, the day highlighted the power of collaboration between science and community.
“At CSIRO, as Australia’s national science agency, our role is to develop and rigorously test weed biocontrol agents like this fungus. But it is only by connecting with community that we can translate that science into real impact on the ground for conservation," CSIRO's Dr Ben Gooden said.
The strong turnout and enthusiasm from participants underscored the readiness of local communities to play an active role in delivering weed biocontrol outcomes. Events like this not only accelerate the spread of the biocontrol agent but also build local knowledge and long-term capacity for coastal weed management.
Dr Gooden also reflected on the experience of working alongside the group.
“I wish to sincerely thank the local organisers for hosting such a fantastic event. The enthusiasm, hospitality and camaraderie on display made such an enjoyable experience. It was a great example of people coming together outdoors, doing meaningful work, and connecting community with science," he said.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the value of hands-on training and the opportunity to contribute directly to a cutting-edge national project.
With momentum building, further workshops and releases are expected to follow, helping to expand the reach of this promising biocontrol approach and protect coastal ecosystems into the future.