In very sad news, Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) has struck again at Read Park along Albany Hwy.
The park has been under surveillance since early 2024 to monitor the presence of the invasive pest, with previous interventions undertaken to contain it.
Since first being identified in Fremantle in 2021, PSHB has now spread to much of the metro area, aided by the moving of green waste such as pruned trees and firewood from one place to another.
Signage has been erected across the Town's parks to help raise awareness, complemented by free community workshops hosted with DPIRD late last year.
Why is PSHB such a problem?
PSHB carries and farms a fungus in infested trees. The spread of the fungus within the tree disrupts the flow of water and food causing dieback, which over time causes the tree to decline and, in some cases, die.
PSHB is considered both an agricultural and environmental pest, with more than 400 host species including ornamental, fruit, nut, native and amenity trees. Mated female PSHBs can fly and spread the infestation, on top of being aided by human activities.
Want to help?
You can help by checking your yard and keeping an eye out for the symptoms shown below when visiting the Town's green spaces!

Any suspected signs of PSHB damage should be reported to department via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app (currently unavailable on latest Android operating system) or via the Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080 or padis@dpird.wa.gov.au
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