Perth Councillor Battles Council Over Mosquito Outbreak Leaving Residents Injured
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A growing mosquito and midge outbreak in Perth’s northern suburbs is sparking a fierce debate between a local councillor and the City of Wanneroo, with residents reporting painful bites and concerns over potential disease transmission.The issue, centered around Warradale Park in Landsdale, stems from prolonged rainfall since late September that has created stagnant pools of water – a breeding ground for the insects.
The situation has escalated to the point where children are being bitten, and a memorial playground remains unusable due to the infestation. Councillor Hugh Nguyen is leading the charge for immediate action, accusing the council of inaction and a failure to prioritize public health.
Stagnant Waters Fuel Insect Surge
High levels of rainfall have led to water pooling in low-lying areas of Warradale Park,creating an ideal environment for mosquitoes and midges to breed.The stagnant water, near a local lake, has persisted for weeks, despite attempts by the City of Wanneroo to treat it with a government-approved chemical.
“It gave me goosebumps when I was down there looking at it,because it’s like maggots,” Nguyen said,describing the sheer number of larvae he observed during an inspection of the affected swales. Residents have echoed these concerns, reporting a significant increase in bites and a foul odour emanating from the standing water.
Playground Memorial Impacted
The outbreak is particularly distressing as it has rendered unusable a playground built in memory of two-year-old Sam Trott, who tragically drowned in 2014 after wandering from his Landsdale home. The playground serves as a poignant reminder of the community’s loss, and its current state adds to the frustration felt by local families.
“We’re faced with an outbreak and the last thing we want is for mosquito-borne diseases to be breaking out in the community,” Nguyen stated, emphasizing the potential health risks.
Council Response and Councillor’s Dissatisfaction
The City of Wanneroo maintains it is actively addressing the issue, stating it is “continuing to monitor the site and will take further action if required.” A council spokesperson acknowledged that some odour may occur as organic matter decomposes,but noted that managing odour from natural water bodies is not typical practice.
However, Nguyen argues the chemical treatment has proven ineffective due to ongoing rainfall and the continued proliferation of larvae. he claims the outbreak is now affecting not only Landsdale but also neighboring suburbs like Darch and Madeley.
Urgent Action Demanded
Nguyen is pushing for more drastic measures,specifically the draining of the accumulated water. He believes this is the most effective immediate solution while the council explores long-term strategies.
“The City has got to do something now,” Nguyen insisted.”There is, at the very basic level, a duty of care owed by the city to the residents. How do you expect residents to just put up with the smell for possibly months?”
To escalate the issue, Nguyen plans to introduce a motion at the next council meeting requesting the urgent removal of the water from the swales. He will also be contacting Landsdale MP Daniel Pastorelli and Health Minister Meredith hammat to seek their intervention.
“It’s not being taken seriously at all,” Nguyen said. “All we need is just a solution. We don’t care what it is, but the option of leaving the water there to dry and evaporate by itself is not an option from the community’s outlook.”
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