Parthenium weed is an unwelcome visitor to the Tamworth region, but we're winning the fight

This year has seen the highest number of parthenium outbreaks across the state in more than two decades, up to about 30 incursions from the yearly average of one or two, according to the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI).

DPI state priority weed coordinator Philip Blackmore said the increase was partly because hay for livestock had been transported across the Queensland border more frequently.

"Unfortunately we had the combined occurrences of an extreme drought over all of NSW and a half-decent season in central Queensland, where the worst of the parthenium incursions are," he said.

Bendemeer farmer James Hook contacted authorities after he discovered an outbreak of parthenium weed on his property a few weeks ago.

"I think it's so important that when these issues do arise, as a community we take a very open and transparent approach to this," he said.

The weed had been found growing on a Tamworth property and on roadsides. All outbreaks in NSW are under control and the DPI expects to eradicate the weed.

Locals who spot what they think is parthenium should not touch it, and call the DPI biosecurity helpline on 1800 680 244, or Tamworth Regional Council.