“Expanding the quarantine area will provide an additional buffer zone where we are increasing surveillance for the borer and taking immediate action to manage the pest in this area,” Dr. Lanoiselet said.
Government workers have inspected millions of trees looking for the beetles.
Picture: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

The borer does not grow in lawn and grass clippings.

“As the weather warms, we urge everyone to check their trees for signs of the borer, particularly those host trees at highest risk such as box elder maples, coral trees, Moreton Bay and Port Jackson figs, and London plane trees,” he said.

“Signs of borer activity include tiny holes the size of a ballpoint pen in the tree trunk or branches, staining or discolouration of the wood, gumming and frass, as well as signs of dieback in the tree.”