Native to Central and South America, Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata) is an aggressive invader that has become a significant environmental threat in Queensland.

• Fast-growing and highly adaptable, Siam weed forms dense thickets that outcompete native plants for vital resources such as light, nutrients, and space.

• It drastically alters the structure of plant communities and the natural landscape, severely impacting native wildlife that depend on native plants for food and shelter, leading to a decline in biodiversity.

• Siam weed poses a huge fire risk, accumulating large amounts of biomass and increasing the intensity and frequency of bushfires.

Its ability to regrow from root fragments and produce large numbers of seeds that can spread by wind, water, animals, and human activity makes it a challenging pest to manage using purely traditional weed control methods.

Ranger Charlie is no stranger to Siam weed and recently joined forces with Gudjuda Land and Sea Rangers

Working together, Natural Resource Management (NRM) Ranger Charlie and the local crew teamed up with the Gudjuda Land and Sea Rangers who worked tirelessly to remove thousands of Siam weed plants from key areas around Mount Elliott, including the Alligator Creek day-use area and nearby walking tracks, both popular locations with visitors. The team worked diligently to eradicate the weed in these highly visited areas before it had a chance to flower and seed—an essential step in preventing its spread to other parts of the national park.

The Gudjuda team, consisting of 5 Rangers, brought valuable local knowledge and expertise to the project, and Ranger Charlie’s experience in pest management ensured the team employed the most effective techniques for controlling the invasive plant. The collaborative approach demonstrated the power of partnership in protecting Queensland’s national parks and preserving their biodiversity.

The effort to control Siam weed in Bowling Green Bay National Park is part of QPWS' broader commitment to the protection and management of Queensland’s national parks. Invasive species like Siam weed present a constant challenge to park Rangers and land managers, but through collaboration, strategic planning, and community involvement, we can protect the health of these valuable landscapes.

By working alongside traditional owners and local Ranger groups, QPWS is ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy Queensland’s rich biodiversity and unique natural environments. Together, we can help safeguard the future of our national parks and the species that call them home.

To stay in the loop about QPWS’ conservation efforts in our national parks, consider subscribing to our monthly newsletter. For ways you can get involved in your local area, check out ‘volunteering opportunities’.

Most importantly, join us in supporting the protection of Queensland’s natural heritage and helping prevent the spread of pest species by ensuring you come clean, go clean.