Central Coast Council’s biosecurity officer, Paul Marynissen, was called to collect and identify the unwanted tourist after a local business discovered it in a shipment from the sunshine state.

“This was a great pick-up by a vigilant employee, who understood the importance of keeping our local wildlife safe,” Mr Marynissen said.

“It’s important for all local businesses, particularly those involved in moving landscaping supplies and fresh foods, to be vigilant when purchasing products from interstate.

“These shipments can contain pests, such as the cane toads or even native species that just don’t belong here.”

Last summer, cane toads were found at Summerland Point and Mirrabooka. Authorities believe the animals had also hitched rides in shipments from Queensland.

Mr Marynissen said cane toads, in particular, were a major threat to native animals because they can consume large numbers of native wildlife.

“They are also poisonous to many native animals and pets and can harm humans with their toxin,” he said.

Businesses that think they may have spotted one of these unwanted guests are encouraged to contain it (never handle them without gloves).

Mr Marynissen said cane toads could easily be confused with native frogs, so locals who think they have located a cane toad should never kill it.

“Call your local vet or council immediately to assist with identification,” he said.

If you see an amphibian you suspect is a cane toad: