This notice is of interest to importers of timber and timber products arriving from New Zealand.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (the department) will commence its annual heightened surveillance regime for managing the risks posed by Burnt Pine Longicorn (BPL) beetles (Arhopalus ferus) on vessels and imported cargo arriving from New Zealand.

Timber and timber products loaded on vessels departing New Zealand from 00:01 hours (NZST) on Friday 1 November 2024 through to 23:59 hours (NZST) on Wednesday 30 April 2025 must meet the conditions of the BICON case: Timber and timber products imported from New Zealand during Burnt Pine Longicorn (BPL) flight season

The BPL beetle is likely to enter Australia on vessels and imported cargo, including timber and machinery, arriving from New Zealand during the BPL flight season.

Look for adult beetles seeking shelter in dark secluded areas during daylight and in imported cargo or vessels. Adults are active from dusk to dawn and are attracted to light.

Adult beetles range from 12 to 30 millimetres in length and are reddish brown to black in colour. The length of their antennae is about half their body length in females and three–quarters of their body length in males. Female beetles lay eggs in groups of five to 50. The mature larvae are about 25 millimetres long, creamy white in colour and cylindrical in shape.

Timber and timber products (as well as some machinery shipments) may be subject to inspections & possibly require onshore treatment such as fumigation or heat treatment. Addtional charges will apply for these services.

The DDWL Team

Story courtesy of IFCBAA & DAFF

Picture courtesy of NSW Dept. of Primary Industries