Fire ants almost cancel Qld Anzac service

A regional Queensland Anzac dawn service and re-enactment of the Gallipoli landings has gone ahead after the discovery of a fire ant infestation almost caused it to be cancelled.

Ant nests were found near the Goodna boat ramp on the Brisbane River, where the event was held, late on Friday.

But the action of biosecurity agents who rushed in dozens of hay bales to keep the ants away from the public saved the day.

Goodna councillor Paul Tully says it's lucky the area didn't have to be sealed off, cancelling the event.

"This is the first time in Australia fire ants have almost forced the cancellation of an Anzac Day service," Cr Tully said.