Who We Are
Proudly Family Owned & Locally Operated
Tropical Pest Control has been ridding homes of pests since 1982. Owned and operated by the second generation of Mackay locals, the Laister family, son Todd now running the business and father Graeme supporting him. Built on a reputation for delivering fast, friendly, and efficient service, we set the standard for professional pest control in Mackay.
We use the most up-to-date techniques, the latest technology, and products that are safe for you and your loved ones. Tropical Pest Control offers free quotes for both domestic and commercial applications. We can provide you with verbal and written reports, including photos, for pre-purchase inspections. We can also carry out annual treatments and inspections to ensure no pests move in.
We use only trusted brands to ensure the safety of your home and family. We follow all Australian Standards for pest control operators and are fully accredited providers of Termidor, Sentricon, and many other solutions, such as Term-Seal.
Termites cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage to homes every year, and they are particularly prevalent in coastal areas such as Mackay and further north. As your home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make, it is important to protect it. We conduct thorough inspections to detect termites within your home to ensure your pest problem is dealt with properly the first time.
If you need pests controlled at your home or business, be sure to contact Todd or Graeme at Tropical Pest Control.
Meet the Team
Name
Todd Laister - Owner/Manager
Favourite Quote
“You only get out what you put in.”
My background
Since 2014, I have been married to my lovely wife, Teneale, and we have a boisterous son, Leo, who loves camping, jiujitsu, and anything boy related.
Before Tropical Pest Control, I spent approximately 10 years in the finance industry helping clients achieve their goals, until Graeme, aka Dad/previously owner of Tropical Pest Control, wanted to grow the business. I saw this as a great opportunity to change career paths and start helping clients in a new way – looking after their homes. In October 2018 I purchased the business from Dad and have never looked back.
What I do when I’m not working
I love fishing, camping, and jiujitsu. My goal since being a kid has been to have a Black Belt in a martial art and, in November 2022, I was lucky enough to be awarded my Black Belt in jiujitsu.
Values that drive me
Karma – I believe what you put out is what you get back.
Name
Graeme And Margaret Laister - Previous Owners
Favourite Quote
"Do it once do it right."
My background
I purchased Tropical Pest Control from Mike Connelly in roughly 2007 after running a pest control and carpet cleaning business down in the Sunshine Coast.
To help keep up with demand and help grow the business, Todd came on board and since then we have enjoyed amazing growth and have had many laughs together.
What I do when I’m not working
When needed, I occasionally help Todd and the team. When not helping, Marg and I are travelling around the countryside in our caravan seeing the best of what Australia has to offer.
Name
Robyn Giles - Office Administration
Favourite quote
"We are born in one day, we can change in one day, We can fall in love in one day. Anything can happen in just 1 day."
My background
20 years ago my two young daughters and I moved back to Mackay where my family is. Now they are all grown up, one is in childcare and the other is a paramedic.
I have worked in multiple administrative jobs. E.g. Schools, Airlines, Banks, Aged Care.
And now I find myself in pest control. As they say, “A change is as good as a holiday.”
What I do when I’m not working
When I’m not working, I like playing table tennis, which I took up at age 55 (so you’re never too old for anything). I am also a local artist. And I like to catch up with friends and family regularly.
Values that drive me
I live by: A stitch in time saves 9. (THIS IS SO TRUE. Never let things get too big. Deal with them when they’re small, even if you don’t want to.)
Name
Lorrine Taylor - Office administration
Favourite quote
"That which does not kill us makes us stronger"
My background
Originally from Biloela, moved to Mackay in 1978, married to Greg – two children, Ryan & Tegan and now four grandchildren.
My working life has included many varied roles, but mostly banking, administration, running my own small business & now the opportunity to be part of Tropical Pest Control.
Values that drive me
Treat people how you want to be treated
Integrity, Honesty, Respect, Compassion
Name
Damian Ackhurst - Termite and Pest Technician
Favourite Quote
“The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now.”
My Background
Originally from Newcastle, I played rugby growing up and later got into the gym. I’m building my career in pest control in Mackay—and keen for it!
What I do when I’m not fishing:
I like spending time outdoors taking my dog for walks, staying active at the gym, and working on personal projects.
Values that drive me:
Being reliable, straightforward, progressing, and making sure the job is done properly the first time.
