First identified in NSW in August 2010, Tropical Soda Apple is a highly invasive weed with the ability to dominate farming properties and threaten livelihoods.

The aggressive, prickly, perennial shrub stands at roughly 1 to 2 metres high, and if measures aren't taken immediately after it takes root, a few plants can form a hectare sized thicket in 6 months, with each plant producing 200 fruit containing 45 000 seeds each year.

The Upper Macleay has fallen prey to the weed through flooding and stock eating its fruit, despite attempts to wipe it out in the past, the plant has proven to be an extreme survivor and is currently flourishing.

Council General Manager, Craig Milburn, said this grant funding, which can only be used on crown land, will be used to assist in reducing the spread of the invasive weed in the riparian zones along the length of the river and neighbouring private lands.

"Tropical Soda Apple has been wreaking havoc on farming properties across the Macleay Valley," he said.

"It is critical that local contractors be engaged to undertake direct control of Tropical Soda Apple on riverside and crown land areas to try and prevent this weed from spreading further.

"To control it, you need to spray four times a year, or the other way farmers get rid of it is to dig it up and either deep-bury it or burn it. So the process is quite labour intensive."

The funding for control of Tropical Soda Apple on public lands is part of a broader council strategy to support private landowners fighting the weed.

Kempsey Shire Council is calling on the community to work as a team to eradicate this plant from our areas, if you find it on your land, notify council's Weeds Officer on 6566 3200 for assistance in its removal.

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