Submit cattle tick dip samples for testing

We offer free testing on samples of the plunge dip used to treat cattle for cattle tick, to assess if the active chemicals are within the recommended levels.

Collect appropriate samples

You need to collect dip samples of between 200mL and 250mL.

Collect the dip samples as described on the supplier label for the chemical you use.

Make sure the dip is thoroughly mixed when sampling to give the best analysis results.

These should be sent in 250mL plastic containers. These are available from your chemical supplier or your local Department of Primary Industries (DPI) office. Do not use glass bottles or plastic drink bottles.

The chemicals used in your dip sample have been assessed as NOT Dangerous Goods if sent in sample containers that are less than 250mL.

Option 1: Submit in-person at a DPI office

You can submit your dip sample at one of these DPI offices:

Only these offices will accept dip samples.

If you cannot get to one of these locations, you can submit your samples by post.

Cloncurry office only

If you are submitting your sample to the Cloncurry office, you need to request a drop-off time.

First, call 13 25 23 and give us your contact details. A staff member will then call you and organise a suitable time to drop off your sample.

This process does not apply to any other DPI office.

Option 2: Submit by post

Your samples can be sent via:

  • Australia Post (preferred if possible)
  • or
  • courier service.

The chemicals used in your dip sample have been assessed as NOT Dangerous Goods if sent in the size specified of less than 250mL.

When sending a dip sample, you must ensure the sample does not leak in transit.

Choose the right container

  1. Collect sample in provided plastic containers:
    • sourced from your local produce store or local DPI office
      • or
    • provided with purchase of dip solution.
  2. Seal the bottle with tape around the lid edge.
  3. Do not use glass containers or plastic drink bottles.

Include sample details

Complete the sample submission form (PDF, 152KB).

On the bottle, write the:

Package correctly

  1. Place the taped dip bottle within at least 2 sealed plastic bags.
  2. Place the completed submission form into a separate sealed plastic bag.
  3. Wrap sealed dip sample bottle and paperwork in newspaper or other absorbent material.
  4. Place everything into a post bag or post pack.

Send your samples

Send your samples to:

Sample Receipt – Chemical Residue Laboratory
Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Primary Industries
Health and Food Sciences Precinct
Block 10, 39 Kessels Road
Coopers Plains  QLD  4108

Receiving results

If the sample is within the recommended levels, then you can continue to use the dip as a preventative treatment for cattle tick.

If the test results show that the active chemical levels are too high or low (plus or minus 10% of the recommended level), we will send you instructions on how to correct these levels. You will then need to send us a new sample for testing, to confirm that the chemical levels are correct.

Cost

The testing service is free.

If you submit your sample at a DPI office, we will provide the free sample bottles. If you drop these back to us, we will send the samples to the lab.

If you submit by post directly to the lab, you will need to pay for postage.

Timeframes

There is a 10 working day turnaround for results from when the sample is received at the laboratory. Analysis is normally performed on a Thursday, with results typically being reported by the following Tuesday.

If you need the results urgently, make a note on the submission form and send the sample directly to the laboratory.

Help

Call (07) 3708 8824 for more information or help with preparing your dip sample for testing.