Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC) has moved its battle against noxious weeds on-line. The Weed Authority’s inspectors have noticed a number of people setting up business selling plants over the internet using services such as eBay. HRCC Operations Manager, Mr Chris Stanfield says “We routinely inspect traditional plant outlets such as nurseries and aquariums, but we now have to keep watch on the sale of live plants over the internet”. “These plants can cause devastating impact on our agriculture and natural environment”, Mr Stanfield said. “Noxious species such as Salvinia and Water Hyacinth can be sealed in plastic and shipped to the buyer within two days. However, Weed Authority inspectors have found good will amongst plant retailers, in both traditional and online forms. “Most are small business people only too happy to do the right thing if provided with good advice”, Mr Stanfield said. “The small number of people selling illegal weed species has stopped immediately once they have been contacted by our staff, and in most cases it appears to be a case of mistaken identity. HRCC Chairman, Clr. Bob Porter said “This is an example of how our weed authority is adapting to the modern market place.” “The County Council is continually on the lookout for new weed incursions, so if you think you have spotted one, please report it immediately.” Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC) is the local weed authority for the Council areas of Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Penrith and The Hills Shire. HRCC has a list of all Noxious Weeds on its website at www.hrcc.nsw.gov.au, or call 4574 9600 to report a weed. For media enquiries please contact: Mr Chris Dewhurst, General Manager T: 4574 9603 E: gm@hrcc.nsw.gov.au
