Skip Navigation LinksConference  /  Speakers  /  Speakers Stream 2

Speakers

Speaker Profiles – Stream 2

Thursday 7th August 2025

Andrew Critchley

Stream 2: 11:00 – 11:30

“Possums”

Andrew Critchley
Founder & Director, Instinct Pest Management | Darwin Possum Man

Andrew Critchley began his career in 2002 as a labourer, quickly discovering that crawling under houses in search of termites was far more exciting—and rewarding—than life working in a kitchen. That early curiosity about pests laid the foundation for a career that would span over two decades and take him across the country.

Over the years, Andrew built his expertise working with small and medium-sized pest control businesses. His skill and leadership eventually led him to a supervisory and management role with a large multinational company. In this position, he travelled nationally, auditing technicians and ensuring top-tier service delivery for major clients.

After a period as a subcontractor working with various branches in NSW, Andrew and his family made the move to Darwin—drawn by the challenge and adventure of pest control in the Top End. It was here that he saw a clear gap in the market for high-quality, reliable pest control services. That insight led to the launch of Instinct Pest Management, a company built on expertise, integrity, and a passion for problem-solving.

Noticing another underserved niche, Andrew also founded Darwin Possum Man, providing innovative and humane possum management solutions. His unique approach has not only earned trust from customers but also recognition from wildlife carers and government environmental agencies, proving that pest control and animal welfare can go hand in hand.

Despite his leadership roles, Andrew remains hands-on in the field, working alongside his two senior technicians and supported by a dedicated office team who keep the business running smoothly. His commitment to service, quality, and innovation continues to drive both businesses forward—largely through word-of-mouth and referrals from satisfied clients.

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Overview of possums in urban areas, their behaviour, and legal protections.

Impact and Risks: Possums’ potential to cause structural damage, noise, and issues for homeowners.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Exclusion Techniques: Best practices for roof-proofing, including materials, installation, and long-term maintenance.

Deterrents: Use of lighting, sound devices, and scent-based repellents.

Humane Relocation: Safe trapping methods and compliance with relocation regulations.

Client Education: Advising clients on garden changes to reduce possum attraction (e.g., removing fruit trees or using physical barriers).

Curtis Thew

Stream 2: 11:30 – 12:00

Strategy in Termite Management

Curtis Thew
Technical Services Manager – BASF Australia & NZ

With 28 years of experience in the pest management industry, Curtis possesses extensive practical expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the field. Beginning his career as a trainee nearly three decades ago, Curtis has held various positions including technician, supervisor, state manager, branch manager and business owner over a span of 28 years. His diverse roles have provided him with insights into both operational and strategic aspects of the industry.

Curtis currently serves as the Technical Services Manager for BASF Australia and New Zealand, providing pest professionals across the region with technical training, product support, and practical solutions. Additionally, Curtis plays a vital role in the Global BASF technical community.

He has successfully executed thousands termite treatments utilising both chemical and baiting methods. Over the years, he has been entrusted by chemical manufacturers to conduct trial work that has contributed significantly to advancements within the industry. He currently undertakes important trial work with BASF as part of his current role.

He has worked across all Australian states and travelled to the United States and Sweden, gaining invaluable industry insights. With over 16 years as a business owner, he provided termite and pest services to domestic and commercial customers, including high risk sensitive sites such as Australia's largest theme park and its zoo- a true test of long-term reliability and adaptability.

Curtis holds Timber Pest Accreditation, a Certificate III qualification, and is an AEPMA Field Biologist. His previous business was recognized as Australia's Pest Manager of the Year. With extensive business experience, Curtis consistently offers practical solutions and evolves with the industry while aiding others in developing their technical and business skills through education and dialogue.

When he’s not talking termites, or supporting pest managers, you’ll find him spending time with family, walking his Staffordshire bull terrier, or relaxing at the beach.

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Types of termites and their lifecycle.

Impact and Risks: Structural damage and high repair costs for property owners.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Termite Barriers: Installation of physical and chemical barriers, with a focus on long-term maintenance.

Baiting Systems: Selection, deployment, and monitoring of bait systems for colony elimination.

Chemical Treatments: In-depth on the use of termiticides (e.g., termidor), application techniques, and safety protocols.

Inspection Techniques: Training on early detection, use of thermal imaging, moisture meters, and reporting methods for effective client communication.

David Arnold

Stream 2: 12:00 – 12:30

“Spiders”

David Arnold
Technical Sales Manager – (Professional Pest Management) ANZ
ENVU

David Arnold is the newly appointed Technical Sales Manager ANZ for Envu’s Professional Pest & Termite Management business, based in QLD.

David has over 20 years of Pest Control experience, from working in small family-based business, large multinationals, global chemical companies and running an award-winning local business in Brisbane.

Running a local award-winning family business (2021 Pest Manager of the Year winner- Micro Business) and working within multinational companies has enabled David to gain extensive experience in managing many common aspects of pest control, including Termite management (pre and post-construction), General insect control, Rodent management, Mosquito Management, and Bird Management.

During his time in the industry, he has gained many skills in most facets of Pest management from identification of building construction, customer resolutions and relationships building, sales methods for domestic and commercial sites, implementing pest management programs for specific sites, and managing workloads and staff.
 

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Common spider species and their risks.

Impact and Risks: Fear, bites, and infestations.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Insecticides: Selection of appropriate insecticides for spiders, focusing on contact and residual sprays.

Treatment strategies: Pest harbourages, Treatment protocols and habitat modification to reduce spider presence.

Treatment equipment and strategies to get the most out of the treatment

Managing Client Expectations: Educating clients on preventive measures, such as reducing clutter and web removal.

Steve Broadbent

Stream 2: 12:30 – 13:00

“Cockroaches”

Steve Broadbent
Ensystex Australasia

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Overview of the most problematic cockroach species.

Impact and Risks: Health risks through contamination and allergens.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Techniques for sanitation, exclusion, and habitat modification.

Chemical Treatments: Strategic placement of baits and gels, rotation of insecticide classes to prevent resistance, and appropriate use of IGRs (Insect Growth Regulators).

Monitoring: Setting up bait stations and regular inspections to track infestation levels and success of treatment programs.

Commercial and Domestic Applications: Customised strategies for residential versus large-scale facilities like restaurants or warehouses.

Nick Jones

Stream 2: 14:00 – 14:30

“Rodent Management: Source over Symptom – Effective Strategies for Lasting Control”

Nick Jones
Technical Services Representative Australia & New Zealand
Bell Laboratories

Nick brings a unique blend of field experience, product knowledge and customer-focused problem-solving to his role as Technical Services Representative for Bell Laboratories across Australia and New Zealand.

Based in Brisbane, Nick supports pest management professionals offering technical guidance on rodent control strategies, product selection and integrated pest management solutions.

Before joining Bell Labs in 2020, Nick spent over 14 years in the turf and pest distribution industry with Globe Pest Solutions, managing client relationships and supplying pest control solutions to operators throughout Victoria and Tasmania. His career began as a Turf Manager at Beacon Hills Golf Club in Melbourne before transitioning into chemical and product distribution.

Now, with Bell Laboratories, Nick is committed to helping pest control professionals elevate their rodent management programs through smarter, more sustainable, and more effective solutions.

ABSTRACT View more...

Rodent infestations continue to pose serious risks to health, safety, and infrastructure in both residential and commercial environments. This session begins with an overview of common rodent species, their behaviours, and how to identify them in the field. Attendees will then explore the significant impacts rodents can cause, including structural damage, fire hazards, and disease transmission.

The session emphasises a strategic shift from reactive treatments to proactive, source-focused control. Key topics include robust exclusion and proofing methods, client engagement to address sanitation and structural issues, and best practices for designing and monitoring effective baiting programs and trapping techniques.

Participants will leave with practical knowledge to tackle rodent issues at the source for long-term, sustainable results.

Charles McClintock

Stream 2: 14:30 – 15:00

“Mosquito Biology and Control”

Charles McClintock
Manager Public Health & Professional Products
Sumitomo Chemicals Australia

Charles has been with Sumitomo Chemical Australia for 23 years and currently holds the position of Manager Public Health and Professional Products.

Prior to joining Sumitomo Chemical Charles ran a mixed farming business in southern NSW. Charles holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics Degree and has held board positions with agribusinesses marketing woollen apparel into the UK and meat products into Southeast Asia.

In his current role, Charles manages various business units including Vector Control, Ant Bait, Grain Protection, Turf and Pest Control.

ABSTRACT View more...

This presentation will introduce the mosquito lifecycle, freshwater and saltmarsh habitats and their impact both as disease vectors and nuisance insects within the community and broader environment.

Some key species will be discussed reflecting on their historical or potential impact as vectors for disease in Australia and chemical control options will be detailed with respect to both larval and adult control.

Mark Wilson

Stream 2: 15:00 – 15:30

“Battling Bed Bugs”

Mark Wilson
National Technical Sales Manager
Globe Pest Solutions

Mark Wilson is the National Technical Sales Manager at Globe Pest Solutions. He has an extensive background in pest management, covering both residential and commercial sectors. Before joining Globe Pest Solutions, he held roles in technical support, training, sales, management, and operations across various pest control companies. His expertise includes developing solutions, supporting teams, and staying ahead of industry trends.

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Biology and resurgence of bed bugs in urban areas.

Impact and Risks: Psychological impact and allergic reactions.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Heat Treatments: Effective use of heat treatment machines to reach lethal temperatures in infested areas.

Chemical Treatments: Selection of residual insecticides and dusts for application in cracks and crevices.

Inspection Techniques: How to use detection tools like dogs, UV lights, and monitors to identify infestations early.

Prevention Tips for Hotels and Residential Settings: Proactive management strategies for high-risk locations.

Peter McCarthy

Stream 2: 15:30 – 16:00

“Birds”

Peter McCarthy
Pest IT

ABSTRACT View more...

Introduction: Overview of common pest bird species and behaviours.

Impact and Risks: Health risks and structural damage.

Advanced Management Strategies:

Exclusion Methods: Use of spikes, nets, and electric tracks for long-term prevention of bird nesting.

Deterrents: Use of sound and visual deterrents such as reflective tape, bird scarers, and lasers.

Trapping and Relocation: Humane trapping techniques and the legalities of bird relocation.

Nest Removal: Safe removal of nests from structures and addressing hygiene issues caused by bird droppings.

Stream 2: 16:00 – 16:30

“Red Imported Fire Ants: Australia’s High-Stakes Invasion – What You Need to Know”

David Priddy – Sundew Solutions
Charles McClintock – Sumitomo Chemicals Australia

ABSTRACT View more...

Join Charles McClintock (Sumitomo Chemical Australia) and David Priddy (Sundew Solutions) for an essential presentation on one of Australia’s most serious biosecurity threats — the Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta). This session will explore the history of fire ant incursions in Australia, the alarming potential consequences if they become endemic, and an up-to-date overview of the current outbreak in Southeast Queensland. Learn about the tools and strategies being used to combat this pest, including targeted baiting, chemical treatment options, and how pest control operators can play a role under current biosecurity orders. Whether you're in the field, managing compliance, or simply want to understand what’s at stake — this is a must-attend session for anyone in the pest management industry.

DAVID PRIDDY – CEO, SUNDEW SOLUTIONS

David Priddy is the C.E.O. and Founder of Sundew Solutions Pty Ltd, an Australian-owned company specialising in the research, development, and supply of innovative pest management technologies. With more than 25 years of experience in the agricultural and professional pest control sectors, David brings a unique blend of scientific insight, regulatory expertise, and commercial acumen to the business.

Before establishing Sundew Solutions in 2009, David held senior roles at Bayer CropScience, where he was involved in product development, technical support, and the strategic rollout of pest solutions across Australian and New Zealand markets. His time at Bayer provided a strong foundation in global regulatory frameworks, high-performance product innovation, and stakeholder engagement—skills that continue to underpin Sundew’s success.

Under David’s leadership, Sundew Solutions has grown into a much respected and trusted brand across Australia. The company maintains a R&D-focused business model, allowing it to rapidly develop and register APVMA-approved solutions tailored to Australia’s unique pest challenges. David’s vision, industry knowledge, and commitment to quality continue to drive Sundew’s growth and market position.

CHARLES MCCLINTOCK – MANAGER PUBLIC HEALTH & PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS, SUMITOMO CHEMICALS AUSTRALIA

Charles has been with Sumitomo Chemical Australia for 23 years and currently holds the position of Manager Public Health and Professional Products.

Prior to joining Sumitomo Chemical Charles ran a mixed farming business in southern NSW. Charles holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics Degree and has held board positions with agribusinesses marketing woollen apparel into the UK and meat products into Southeast Asia.

In his current role, Charles manages various business units including Vector Control, Ant Bait, Grain Protection, Turf and Pest Control.