NATIONAL AWARD TO LOCAL GROUP RECOGNISES VALUE OF GRASSROOTS BIOSECURITY

Media release|12 October 2025

Local not-for-profit Peel Harvey Biosecurity Group, has been awarded the 2025 Australian Biosecurity Award - Community. The awards, issued by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, recognise and celebrate those who have shown a commitment to supporting and promoting Australia’s biosecurity and the systems that underpin it. 

PHBG Executive Officer Teele Hooper-Worrell said she was proud of what the team had accomplished.

“We’re a small team and our operational area is fairly unique - it’s heavily populated and has the full mix of properties, from rural to peri-urban to urban, from inland farms and lifestyle properties to smaller coastal blocks. It can be quite challenging to make sure we can stay in touch with, and deliver our services to, such a diverse community. This award recognises the impact our group has delivered since incorporation in 2014.”

One of 14 recognised biosecurity groups in WA, PHBG helps landholders in their operational area manage declared pests, including invasive weeds and feral animals, through a combination of community workshops, expert advice, practical resources, control program co-ordination, and a free equipment loan system.

Teele said the National Biosecurity Award recognised the importance of biosecurity champions across Australia, who raise awareness and inspire action. The community category highlights the need for effective community-led biosecurity services that connect high level strategies with on ground delivery. 

“The PHBG have always striven to deliver an innovative service that matches the dynamic nature of our operational area. Keeping the biosecurity sector strong will only get tougher as the impact from established pests increases against shrinking agricultural and natural areas. Being recognised through this award will inspire the team and voluntary committee to keep working hard on behalf of the Peel Harvey region,” she said. 

“Landholders can feel confident in knowing that their PHBG has been recognised nationally for the quality of its service, and I encourage those looking for information and support on biosecurity to reach out to the team. By working together we can protect our patch.”

Landholders can be kept up to date with the activities of the PHBG by following the group on Facebook, visiting the website www.PHBG.org, and subscribing to receive the quarterly seasonal newsletter, which provides information on seasonal control activities, upcoming events and emerging biosecurity threats.

ENDS

Media enquiries: media@phbg.org