An invasive weed known as Spiny Burrgrass has been found in Wilcannia Cemetery, Central Darling Shire Council has advised.

The Council warns the weed has a sharp and clingy burr with ability to spread rapidly and tendency to develop into dense infestations in favourable conditions. It is easily spread due to the small sticky burr which become attached to animals, vehicles and clothing.

It poses risks to both people and animals including:

• Injuries to animals such as swelling and ulcers in the mouth;
• The weed poses a risk by clinging to sheep’s wool and in worst scenarios penetrating the skin of sheep;
• Causing Inconvenience and discomfort to agricultural workers when harvesting crops, vegetables, fruits and when shearing sheep.

The weed has been sprayed by biosecurity officers. However, people visiting the cemetery are being asked to still keep an eye out for the weed and take precautions including:

Park in designated areas at the cemetery;

Do not bring pets to the cemetery;

Do not touch any plants whilst at the cemetery;

Check shoes and clothing before leaving the cemetery to ensure no burrs have become attached;

Any burrs should be removed whilst wearing appropriate gloves, wrapped up in a bag and disposed of in a bin at the cemetery;

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after visiting the cemetery.

The Council says it will continue to monitor the situation.