City of Canning Leads the Way with State-First Trial to Combat PSHB Infestation

The City of Canning is proud to announce the launch of Western Australia’s first-ever Systemic Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) management trial, marking a significant milestone in the fight against this destructive pest. The trial will leverage an innovative chemical injection method to manage and potentially eradicate PSHB infestations, offering new hope for the protection of Perth's urban forests.
Over the past nine months, the City has explored various methods to manage and control PSHB. The City has recently partnered with Bioherbicides Australia and Queensland University to adapt the unique application method.
The trial will involve injecting PSHB-infested trees , as well as nearby at-risk trees, using a specialised insecticide and fungicide mix. This is the first time such a treatment has been used in Perth. The goal of these trials is to determine the effectiveness of the chemical’s ability to control or eradicate existing PSHB infestations and inoculate susceptible trees to prevent further spread. Dr. Ben Phillips from Curtin University has reviewed our methodology to validate its scientific rigor, and we are collaborating with Beaver Tree Services and arboriculture experts from ArbWest, the City of Perth and the City of Vincent to share (data) learnings from each other's experiences.
The first trial site is Bicentennial Adenia Park, Riverton . It marks the first systemic chemical application for PSHB in Perth. Bioherbicides Australia’s partnership grants the City exclusive Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) licence use for these experimental trials, which are informed by research from California, South Africa, and Poland.
Mayor Patrick Hall expressed pride in the City's leadership in pioneering this trial, emphasising its importance for both the community and the broader environmental health of Perth's urban forests.

“This trial, the first of its kind in WA, is an exciting moment for the City of Canning, and an event of statewide significance. While we recognise that managing PSHB is a complex issue, we see this trial as a vital step in protecting our trees and green spaces,” said Mayor Hall. “As we lead the way in the PSHB response, we’re focusing our efforts on preserving tree health, not just eradicating pests, and our partnerships with experts highlight our commitment to making a long-term positive impact for the community - and the environment.”

This trial is part of the City of Canning’s commitment to sustainable urban forest management and aims to set a precedent for other local government municipalities. While not a complete solution to PSHB, it is a key step in an integrated pest management approach, combining tree health initiatives, pruning, and innovative control methods.

The trial will run

for several months with ongoing monitoring and adjustments.
For more information, please contact: Taryn Gelder, Marketing & Communications Advisor l taryn.gelder@canning.wa.gov.au