August 20, 2026
Five feral pig traps are being built in a partnership between local students and Western Downs Regional Council in a bid to help manage the spread of phytophthora in the Bunya Mountains.
Phytophthora is a fungus-like microorganism found in the soil which has been linked to dieback in Bunya pine trees.
Students and teachers from Dalby State High School’s Trade Centre have designed and made the pig traps.
A WDRC spokesperson said that once complete, the traps would be deployed in the Bunya Mountains.
The foraging behaviour of feral pigs disrupts soil structure and microbial diversity, resulting in the spread of pathogens such as phytophthora.
Cr Kylie Bourne said the collaboration was an excellent opportunity for trade students to gain real-world experience.
“This is a fantastic initiative where students can step beyond the classroom and develop hands-on skills that will set them up for future careers, all while supporting a project that truly benefits the region’s ecosystem,” Cr Bourne said.
“Students are developing highly transferrable skills in fabrication, planning, and critical problem solving, setting them up for success when they join the workforce.
“Protecting the Bunya Mountains ecosystem is vital, and this project plays an important role by reducing the impact feral pigs impose on our iconic Bunya Pine trees.”
