REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR PESTICON 2024!!   

Planning is well underway and already Pesticon 2024 is shaping up to be bigger and better than last year!  This year’s conference will be held on 14-16 August 2024 at The Star, Gold Coast, QLD.  

We are thrilled to announce, Dr Cathy Nguyen, Senior Research Fellow and a Senior Marketing Scientist at the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute. The Ehrenberg-Bass Institute is the world’s largest centre for research into marketing and considered THE authority on marketing by Fortune 500 Companies. 

Cathy’s research focuses on co-branding, advertising effectiveness and cause-related/charity marketing. Her research has been published in a number of leading marketing journals including the Journal of Business Review, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services and the International Journal of Market Research.   She has worked alongside and presented to global marketing teams from companies including Facebook, Coca Cola, Coles, Kellogg’s, Red Bull, Uber, Glaxo Smith Klein, SC Johnson, Danone and Exxon Mobil. 

Cathy will be “Debunking the Pest-ering Myths of Marketing & How Brands Grow”.  Turning marketing thinking as we know it upside down.  Dr. Cathy Nguyen will introduce the fundamental scientific laws that govern brand growth, for any product in any market. She presents research on how the brain works and buying behaviour that will overturn conventional thinking, exterminating some popular marketing myths along the way.

Pesticon will be filled with education and knowledge, practical tips and advice, and along with our special social events, provides an ideal learning and networking opportunity.  Whether your business is large or small, Pesticon 2024 will give your business a winning edge.  

Don’t delay! Secure your place early - BOOK NOW & SAVE!!  It’s an event not to be missed!!!   For further details regarding the conference, and to register online, simply visit the AEPMA Conference Website

We look forward to seeing you on the Gold Coast!

Thank you to our major sponsors
Ensystex
Garrards
Rapid Solutions
Sentricon
Syngenta

Vale David Ahern

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of David Ahern. David, former Chairman of the Western Australia branch of AEPMA, dedicated himself to the pest management industry. He and his family ran the respected pest control company ALLPEST. Later, David joined Bayer, where he contributed significantly to the team and product launches in Western Australia. His enthusiasm, warmth, and unwavering support will be dearly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Carol, son Nathan, and all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, David.

Have you renewed your membership? 

The renewal invoices have been sent to all members. 

If you have not received your renewal invoice please contact the AEPMA National office info@aepma.com.au 

1. Go to www.aepma.com.au
2. Click on Account Portal
3. Log in with your username and password (valid for current members)
4. Click on “Manage My Account”, then go to “Memberships”, click  on “Renew/Upgrade” button 
5. Fill in the online payment form
6. Your membership will automatically be updated
 

IMPORTANT – Check your profile details and amend if necessary.

AEPMA Victoria - Branch Update

As you may be aware Katherine Smith, Team Leader, Pesticide Safety, Department of Health, has accepted a separation a package with her final day, 18th January, 2024. 

We extend our sincere thanks to Katherine for her steadfast support of AEPMA and of the wider Pest Industry. 

The Department of Health has undergone significant transformation to align with its new strategic plan and state budget commitments. 

Although, Elouise will continue in the role of pesticide safety officer it is envisaged customer service and license administration will be managed by a separate team. 

At this stage we have not  received advice regarding who will replace Katherine. 

However, we look forward to working closely with the new Team Leader and/or management team. 

The best contact continues to be, pesticidesafety@health.vic.gov.au

Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit – June 4-6, 2024

The Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit is dedicated to advancing the crucial mission of safeguarding against the adverse effects of pests on health and food safety. It recognises the vital role pest management professionals play in preserving the health and safety of communities worldwide.
The global summit runs over the three days of June 4-6, 2024 and is to be held at the Eden Roc hotel in Miami, Florida USA.

The joint organisation of this event extends across the entire global pest management industry. From the USA, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), from Europe the Confederation of European Pest Management Associations (CEPA) and from Asia and Oceania, the Federation of Asian & Oceania Pest Managers Associations (FAOPMA).

It promises to be a unique gathering of industry pioneers, thought leaders and professionals committed to safeguarding food safety and public health. With a line-up of international speakers, delegates can participate in the dynamic programme that blends cutting-edge research with strategic insights and collaborative discussions.

The third day, June 6, is also World Pest Day to be hosted by the Global Pest Management Coalition.
Details can be found on the Summit website at www.npmapestworld.org/food-safety

Exciting Updates and Initiatives from AWPMA

We are thrilled to share some exciting updates and initiatives that are currently underway within the Australian Womens Pest Management Assocation community. As we move forward into the new year, we are committed to enhancing opportunities, fostering collaboration, and recognizing excellence within our industry.

Merger Finalisation Under Way:
We are pleased to announce that the merger process is progressing smoothly, and we anticipate finalisation in the coming weeks. This consolidation will strengthen our organisation's capabilities, enabling us to better serve our members and the pest management industry as a whole.

FMC Networking Breakfast Planning Started:
Preparations for the FMC Networking Breakfast are well underway. This event promises to be a valuable opportunity for members to connect, share insights, and cultivate professional relationships within our community. Stay tuned for further details on dates and registration.

BASF Excellence Award Opening Soon:
Mark your calendars! The BASF Excellence Award will be opening for nominations at the end of March. This prestigious award recognizes a female who has shown outstanding contributions and achievements within the field of pest management. We encourage all eligible members to consider submitting nominations and celebrating excellence in our industry.

Transition from Admin and Trainee Awards:
In our ongoing efforts to streamline and optimise our recognition programs, we have made the decision to discontinue the Admin and Trainee Awards. Instead, we aim to focus our resources on initiatives that have a broader impact and provide greater value to our members.

Building a Taskforce for AWPMA:
We are actively seeking dedicated individuals to join a taskforce aimed at advancing the mission and objectives of AWPMA. If you are passionate about empowering women in pest management and contributing to meaningful initiatives, we encourage you to express your interest and become involved in shaping the future of our organisation. Email: info@awpma.org.au 

Accessibility Fund Creation Underway:
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all members, we are in the process of establishing an Accessibility Fund. This fund will support initiatives aimed at removing barriers and creating opportunities for women in our industry facing challenges related to participation in AWPMA activities and events.

As we embark on these endeavours, we remain committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community where every member has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Your continued support and engagement are integral to the success of AWPMA, and we look forward to the positive impact we can achieve together.

Thank you for being valued members of AEPMA and stay tuned for further updates and announcements.

Warm regards,  the AWPMA board

Try Fastrac Blox today, for FAST results!

As an exclusive manufacturer of rodent control products, at Bell Labs we have a keen interest in the weather conditions, and what impact that will have on rodent pressures.

The much discussed El Niño appears to have peaked in November, and the intensity didn’t ever quite match that of other El Niño events in recent decades.  Rainfall has been well above average across the eastern seaboard, and with less than a month of summer left, the heat has yet to hit as hard as anticipated.

Above average rainfall through spring and summer generally leads to a notable increase in rodent pressure.  We only have to look back to 2021 where strong spring and summer rains let to the mouse plague experienced in western New South Wales that made headlines around the world.  Whilst the plague out west was generating column inches and television coverage, rodent pressure around cities and the suburban fringe also greatly increased, with large numbers of rats reported in many areas.
Where does that mean for 2024?  Of course, that’s very hard to answer, but fortunately we have some new tools in our arsenal that we didn’t have available in 2021, so we can be better prepared in the event of another rodent onslaught!

After years of regulatory work, Bell Labs launched Fastrac Blox in January 2022, bringing a brand-new active ingredient and mode of action to the Australian market.  Containing the acute neurotoxin bromethalin, Fastrac Blox delivers faster results compared to anticoagulant rodenticides, with the time to death after consuming a lethal dose typically between 18 and 36 hours.

An added benefit of bromethalin is that rodents cease feeding entirely after consuming a lethal dose, meaning that more rodents can be controlled using less bait compared to traditional anticoagulants.
These unique features distinguish Fastrac Blox from every other rodent bait on the market, providing pest managers with an ideal tool for faster knockdown and faster results!

If you haven’t tried Fastrac Blox yet, visit your distributor and arm yourself with a 4kg pail today!
For further information, contact your Bell Labs representative, or visit www.belllabs.com
 

Online HomeGuard® accreditation 

Become a HomeGuard® installer, anywhere, anytime, with the FMC online training, FMC Learn.
Existing accredited applicators need to update their knowledge in conjunction with the New manual, 5D. This is now easy to do at your convenience.

Sign up today at www.fmclearn.com.au

Protecting Yourself, Your Team, and Your Customers

We talk a lot about safety at work (and rightly so!), however there are some safety risks that we don’t always think about or may not have considered how to handle them.

These include vulnerable people on site – how would you respond if your customer says “I need to head out for a while – I’ll leave my young daughter in the house whilst you complete your work”?
What about people’s beloved “fur babies”, dogs and other animals that can pose a risk to your safety, not to mention the increasing instance of pets ingesting baits and chemicals that can cause serious harm or even death.

Customers themselves can be a safety risk. We’ve had plenty of clients share stories of aggressive behaviour, threatening emails and even physical abuse when their expectations of pest treatment haven’t been met.

We talk about this and more in our most recent blog Safety At Work. It’s an easy read, with practical tips and hints  to help you be on the lookout and take good care of yourself, your employees and your customers whilst on the job.

Take a look here

BASF's Latest Addition to the Expert Technical Services Team

The team at BASF would like to introduce you to their new team member, Curtis, who joined in January as their new Technical Services Specialist. Curtis is no stranger to the pest control industry, having founded and built one of the largest independent pest control businesses in Brisbane. He has over 25 years of industry knowledge and experience with products and clients will be instrumental to our wider team and greatly benefit customers.

Therefore, we have no doubt that his experience will indeed complement BASF and its existing well-established team members such as Scott Morphew, Northern Sales Manager QLD/NT, Andrew Glenn, Key Account Manager NSW/ACT/WA and Adam Rickerby Southern Sales Manager – Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania & New Zealand.

Pest IT Pty Ltd marks two decades of excellence in pest management solutions.

Pest IT, a leading provider of innovative pest and bird management solutions and long-time AEPMA supporter, proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of unwavering commitment to excellence in the industry.

Since its inception in 2004, Pest IT has emerged as a trailblazer in the field, consistently delivering cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive pest control products and training for the professional industry. Led by Peter McCarthy, the company has built a stellar reputation for its commitment to sustainability, customer satisfaction, and technological advancement.

As Pest IT commemorates this significant milestone, the team reflects on the journey of growth and success. From humble beginnings, the company has evolved into a trusted partner for clients seeking efficient and effective pest solutions. Through continuous innovation and a dedicated workforce, Pest IT has stayed at the forefront of bird management and industry trends, adapting to the evolving needs of its diverse clientele.

The 20th-anniversary celebration serves as a testament to Pest IT's resilience, adaptability, and dedication to fostering a pest-free environment. The company expresses gratitude to its clients, partners, and employees who have played pivotal roles in its success.

Looking ahead, Pest IT has released a new company logo, which will be followed by new developments in bird management and IoT solutions. Peter McCarthy reaffirms the company’s commitment to excellence, promising continued innovation and unparalleled service as it embarks on the next chapter of its journey. 

Later in 2024 our primary event will be a full day education session on Bird Management Innovations in multiple cities. This will coincide with the release of new developments in bird management, LED technology and IoT solutions. Exciting times at this ever evolving innovator in pest management products and training.

Globe Pest Solutions Announce New National Technical Sales Manager  

We’re pleased to announce that Mark Wilson has been appointed to the role of National Technical Sales Manager at Globe Pest Solutions. Please join us in welcoming Mark to our team!

With an extensive background in pest management covering both residential and commercial sectors, Mark brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Globe. Mark recently held the role of Technical & Development Manager for a multinational innovator of pest solutions where he provided technical support and training to technicians. Prior to this, he held roles in sales, management, and operations across pest control companies. Mark’s hands-on experience combined with his breadth of expertise and qualifications in pest management will undoubtedly help provide real value and benefits to Globe’s customers.

As our National Technical Sales Manager, Mark will play a pivotal role at Globe in partnering with pest managers to understand their unique needs and challenges and help them discover innovative solutions that deliver the best results for their business.

Ensystex Launch the EXTERRA EVER-READY® Termite Colony Defence System

Advanced Elimination of Termite Colonies – Active on Install

EXTERRA EVER-READY is the latest advance in termite colony elimination from Ensystex. EXTERRA EVER-READY brings together all the benefits of the EXTERRA Termite Colony Elimination System in a totally new package that is Active on Install. 

Ensystex’s Regional Director, Mr Steve Broadbent, advises that, “EXTERRA EVER-READY is an environmentally responsible solution, defending homes from termite infestations right from the moment of install." EXTERRA EVER-READY uses our newly designed EZ In-ground Stations. These are slimmer than the Quarterra In-ground Stations used with EXTERRA®, so they are much easier to place in the ground. These EZ Station come pre-loaded with the EVER-READY REQUIEM® Bait Disk Sacks, so pest managers simply take the Stations out the carton and place them in the ground.

The Bait Disks themselves are encased in a natural jute sack, to provide extended, continuously active protection. Unlike other active on install systems where baits are contained in plastic cassettes, the REQUIEM Bait Disks are secured within a natural jute fibre Sack, that termites enjoy feasting on too. This means the EVER-READY Disk Sacks are fully biodegradable, making EXTERRA -EVER-READY better for the environment.

Each Sack holds six 40 g compressed REQUIEM Bait Disks, so pest managers are using the same bait they have known and trusted for over twenty years.

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The Problem with Fermentation Flies

There are several small fly species that can become a major problem, particularly in commercial accounts such as food and beverage service areas, food preparation and processing facilities, commercial kitchens, garbage areas but also public toilets, showers or animal housing areas.
Small fly control can be a big challenge. Since small flies breed within the premises and have a short life cycle, they can multiply quickly when their food source and breeding sites are available. Even small amounts of organic debris can support a significant small fly population.

The key to successful control is breaking the lifecycle – and probably the most critical part of the integrated program is removing the breeding areas – thorough cleaning of the premises and removal of organic matter – particularly in drains.

Invade Bio Drain Cleaner and Invade Bio Foam are specialized drain cleaners that use natural microbes and citrus oil to cling to the sides of drains, break down and destroy the organic build-up and therefore eliminate the potential breeding site on drain walls.

Regular insecticide treatment will kill off the adults, but will not take care of the eggs or larvae. The Py-Matic automatic Insecticide mister is a great option for on-going adult fly control.

In Summary, it has to be a holistic approach – to get effective control thorough inspection and then removal of all stages of the life cycle is imperative.

Visit our website 

Amsterdam to Detroit flight turns back as maggots rain down on passenger

A flight from Amsterdam to Detroit was forced to turn around after maggots fell from the overhead bin onto a passenger.

Passenger Philip Schotte told Fox 2 that the woman sitting next to him on Delta Flight DL133 "was freaking out" when at least 12 live maggots fell on her.

"She was just trying to kind of fight off these maggots," he said.

"I don't really know what was going through my mind. I was trying to process it – disgust is one thing of course," Mr Schotte said.

He said the passengers had to wait for flight attendants to come, who tracked the critters to a passenger's bag in the overhead compartments.

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Credit - ABC News 

Worst fall armyworm incursion on record costing farmers millions

Farmers are grappling with the most damaging incursion of fall armyworm (FAW) on record, and have likened the destruction to that caused by a bushfire. 

"Our area was hit pretty heavily with bushfires this season and a lot of the farmers are describing this as identical to a bushfire," Queensland grower Cameron Rackemann said.

"They're losing entire crops and complete losses on inputs and there's no government subsidy or support for these farmers who've basically lost everything."

Experts say the invasive insect, which originated in the Americas and reached Australia in 2020, is being detected at unprecedented levels in grain crops across Queensland and northern New South Wales.

The 2023-24 summer sorghum crop, worth an estimated $1.5 billion, has been most affected, but other crops are also being targeted.

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Extra half-a-billion-dollars being spent in attempt to eradicate red imported fire ant

Another half billion dollars will be spent on attempting to eradicate the Queensland outbreak by 2032, with nearly $300 million coming from the federal government.

Ashley Bacon, the program director of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, says that despite the spread of the ants the program has been successful.

In Australia the ants are moving approximately four kilometres per year compared to 48km per year in the United States and 80km per year in China, where attempts to control them are costing billions of dollars annually.

Getting recruitment right is very much a two way exchange and how you present the facts in your ad can have a lasting effect on a potential employee.

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Credit ABC News 

SAVE THE DATE!!

• Pesticon 2024 - 14th - 16th August  

AEPMA welcomes any contributions or suggestions for articles that you feel are relevant to the industry. Simply forward to info@aepma.com.au.

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