01 October 2007

Recent monitoring around the City has shown that the following areas have moderate levels of mosquito infestation:

Areas of Lake Connewarre surrounding Wallington and Ocean Grove
Swan Bay Jetty
Stacey's Rd in Barwon Heads
Pt Henry Foreshore

Mosquito breeding sites on Pacey's Island near Wallington and Ocean Grove, the Barwon Heads Levee Bank and Stacey's Road in Barwon Heads and the Pt Henry foreshore were treated via helicopter on 24 and 26 September. Other areas that were treated during the past fortnight by the ground crew include: The St Leonards Lake, Swan Bay Jetty, saltmarshes in Breamlea, wetlands around Jirralingha in Barwon Heads, Hovells Walk in Limeburners Lagoon, and various drains in St Leonards, Queenscliffe, Collendina, and Lara. Light trapping results showed relatively high numbers of mosquitoes in Barwon Heads, Breamlea, Wallington, and Woodlands Estate in Ocean Grove. Moderate levels were found in St Leonards and Pt Lonsdale, and low numbers of mosquitoes were trapped in Portarlington and Old Ocean Grove. Areas around the recreation reserve in St Leonards, caravan parks in Barwon Heads, and the Woodlands Estate in Ocean Grove were fogged by the ground crew.

Recent rainfall and high tides around the Bellarine Peninsula will flood many mosquito breeding sites and make prime conditions for mosquito breeding. Council contractors will be monitoring all the known breeding sites and treating the areas when necessary. However, you may experience a higher level of mosquito infestation over the next fortnight.

People can protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing clothing that is light coloured and loose fitting, and covers their arms and legs, and by using an effective insect repellent.

If you have any queries regarding the City of Greater Geelong's mosquito control program, please contact Health Services on 5227 0411.

Mozzie Fact: Mosquitoes can fly 2.2-3.3 kilometres per hour!