Gold Coast locals are concerned the federal government’s fire ant treatments are making people and animals sick.
Dozens gathered at a forum to voice their concerns, despite repeated evidence the chemicals are safe.
Lin Sutherland claims she and her dog were “poisoned” after visiting the Palm Beach area in March.
“After the rain, the toxins entered the water supply, and that week both myself and my dog got violently ill,” she said.
She held a forum for others to share their experience with the baits.
Several reported the loss of chickens and guinea fowl after consuming the pellets.
The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has engaged an independent expert toxicologist which confirmed the treatments have “low toxicity” to mammals, based on previous studies, and are not classified as poisons.
Despite the assurances, the concerned group want investment into natural eradication treatments.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
