Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance—they're a serious health threat, especially in regions like Greater Geelong, where they carry diseases like Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis. But here's where it gets controversial: how do we balance public health with environmental protection in sensitive areas like the internationally recognized Ramsar wetlands? The City of Greater Geelong is tackling this challenge head-on with its innovative mosquito management program, which includes a groundbreaking use of drones for control measures. Geelong stands alone in Victoria for this approach, a result of a meticulous five-year application process to ensure safety and compliance with environmental regulations. Mayor Stretch Kontelj emphasizes, 'We’ve taken every step within legal boundaries to minimize health risks while safeguarding our precious ecosystems. Our drone and ground treatment programs are designed with safety as the top priority, especially in such environmentally significant areas.' And this is the part most people miss: the community plays a crucial role in this effort. Council Chair Elise Wilkinson advises residents to inspect their properties for standing water—common in bird baths, pet dishes, and gutters—and to maintain lawns and gardens to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. 'Simple actions like emptying water containers weekly or keeping gutters clear can make a big difference,' she notes. For personal protection, wearing light-colored clothing, using repellents with DEET or Picaridin, and avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk are recommended. Here’s a thought-provoking question: With the use of drones in such sensitive areas, are we setting a new standard for environmental stewardship, or does this technology pose risks we’re not yet fully aware of? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective. Meanwhile, if you spot the mosquito management team in action, remember to keep a safe distance for everyone’s well-being.
