Who We Are

Introduction

Where Science Meets Pest Management

At NatureWise Pest Control in Port Macquarie, we believe effective pest management is about more than eliminating pests, it’s about understanding ecosystems, reducing risk, and protecting the people, pets, and environments that matter most.


Our identity is shaped by a deep respect for nature, reflected in our dragonfly logo. The dragonfly is a beneficial insect and a symbol of balance in natural ecosystems. They are natural enemies of mosquitoes and other small pest insects, helping maintain population control without chemicals. Much like the dragonfly, our approach focuses on working with the environment, not against it. You’ll also see references to the Eastern Water Dragon, another native species that plays an important role in healthy Australian ecosystems, reminding us that every habitat has its own built-in protections.


Our team combines scientific precision with genuine care for the natural world. We don’t just treat pests, we help clients understand how to support healthier ecosystems around their homes. For clients interested in natural solutions, we can provide advice on increasing beneficial insect populations in their gardens using non-chemical, biological methods. Natural enemy species such as parasitic wasps and ladybirds offer powerful, chemical-free alternatives for controlling veggie-garden pests and supporting long-term ecological balance.


Every treatment plan we create is designed with care, evidence, and accountability, ensuring results that are both effective and environmentally responsible. Visit our blog to learn more about beneficial insects!

Clint McManus

Clint McManus - Owner

EPA PMT Licence Number: 5203665


NatureWise Pest Control was founded in Port Macquarie by Clint McManus, who recognised that pest control needed a more analytical and science-based approach. With academic training in chemistry, biomolecules, physiology, anatomy, mathematics, and scientific communication, Clint applies advanced knowledge to every inspection and treatment.


After completing higher studies and facing challenges in the traditional job market, Clint saw an opportunity to apply his expertise in an industry that benefits from evidence-based, safety-focused methods. By integrating laboratory-grade protocols and precise application techniques, NatureWise has redefined what eco-conscious pest control can look like in everyday practice.

Our Mission

Our mission is simple — to deliver scientifically informed pest control that protects properties while prioritising the well-being of families, pets, and the environment.


We believe pest control should balance effectiveness with environmental responsibility, combining proven scientific principles with an understanding of how chemicals interact with natural systems.

Our Science-Based Approach

Our background in chemistry and biomolecular science allows us to make informed decisions at every stage of treatment. This means we can:


  • Select the most suitable treatments for each pest species
  • Reduce chemical use while maintaining strong results
  • Anticipate and prevent chemical resistance
  • Understand environmental breakdown pathways and long-term impacts


This foundation gives us an edge: every treatment is backed by real scientific understanding, not guesswork.

Laboratory-Grade Safety Standards

We set our standards higher than the industry minimum. Our team uses advanced PPE protocols, rigorous contamination prevention, and precision application techniques that focus on risk minimisation and targeted control.



Each treatment includes a detailed risk assessment and comprehensive documentation, ensuring transparency, accountability, and consistency across every property we service.

Physiology & Safety Knowledge

With training in human and animal physiology, we understand how different treatments can affect both target and non-target species. This allows us to:


  • Tailor every treatment with controls that reduce risk to families and pets
  • Consider behavioural and habitat factors specific to each pest
  • Apply solutions designed to protect sensitive environments and non-target species


This knowledge underpins our approach to pest control: measured, informed, and conscientious.

Our Commitment to Excellence

We never stop learning, refining, or improving. Our commitment extends beyond results to the way we communicate, operate, and innovate.


  • Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest in entomology, chemistry, and environmental science.
  • Transparent Communication: Providing clear explanations and open dialogue at every stage of service.
  • Innovation: Constantly refining methods using the latest research and data.
  • Accessibility: Offering inclusive services shaped by lived experience and community understanding.

Why Choose NatureWise Pest Control?

When you choose NatureWise, you’re choosing:


  • Scientific expertise, not just traditional methods
  • Enhanced safety protocols for families, pets, and properties
  • Targeted, low-toxicity solutions that address root causes, not just symptoms
  • Eco-conscious treatments that respect local ecosystems
  • Clear explanations and transparent service from start to finish
  • Our difference lies in our balance of science, care, and commitment — ensuring every client receives effective, informed, and environmentally conscious pest control.


Our Promise


Every treatment we deliver is backed by scientific knowledge and applied with precision. We don’t just remove pests — we do it responsibly, sustainably, and with a genuine focus on care for our community.


Fully licensed and insured, we proudly serve Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Kempsey, Lake Cathie, and Forster with trusted pest management services that prioritise performance, professionalism, and protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do you offer emergency pest control?

    Yes, we provide emergency pest control in Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.


    If you're dealing with urgent problems like wasp nests, severe infestations, or rodents inside your home, we can respond quickly to keep your family safe and comfortable.


    We offer our services during usual working hours, as well as flexible times including weekend treatments.

    Request Urgent Inspection
  • What makes NatureWise Pest Control eco-friendly in Port Macquarie?

    At NatureWise Pest Control, we specialise in eco-friendly pest control in Port Macquarie by implementing both non-chemical and low-toxicity chemical solutions that are carefully tailored to each unique situation, backed by laboratory grade safety and science products.


    Our environmentally conscious methods aim to reduce risks to people, pets, and native wildlife while still delivering effective results against pests such as ants, cockroaches, spiders, and rodents.


    By avoiding unnecessary chemical use, and offering tailored non-chemical options, we provide safer, sustainable pest management that protects both your home and the environment.


    Interested in more eco-friendly options?

    More Info
  • Do you service rental properties and real estate requirements?

    Yes, we work with tenants, landlords, and real estate agencies to provide end-of-lease pest control treatments, including flea treatments for rental agreements.


    We supply the required paperwork for your property manager to ensure everything is compliant and stress-free.

    Request Your Free Inspection
  • What does "non-chemical" mean vs chemical? What is a chemical?

    What is a chemical?


    In science:

    A chemical is any substance made of matter with a defined composition. That includes everything: water, oxygen, sugar, salt, vinegar, essential oils, pesticides, plastics, even your own body.


    Example:

    • Water = H20 (a chemical)
    • Table Salt = NaCI (a chemical)
    • Pyrethrum from Flowers = a chemical

    So, technically all pest control methods use chemicals, because every substance is made of them.


    What "Chemical" Means in Pest Control


    In everyday pest control language (and for most clients), "chemical" means synthetic pesticides or manufactures formulations — things mixed, bottled, and applied as sprays, dusts, gels, etc.


    Chemical methods (industry usage)

    • Residual sprays (pyrethroids, neonicotinoids)
    • Dusts (permethrin dusts)
    • Baits (blocks, gels, ant granules)
    • Fumigants

    These are regulated under pesticide laws and come with labels, PPE requirements, and safety data sheets.


    What "Non-Chemical" Means


    In pest management, "non-chemical" means control methods that don't involve applying synthetic or formulated pesticides.


    Examples

    • Environmental control: reducing food, moisture, and shelter: waste management.
    • Physical control: vacuuming pests, installing door sweeps, sealing entry points, using traps.
    • Biological control: introducing predators/parasites (e.g. lady beetles against aphids)
    • Heat/cold treatments: steam, freezing, or heat chambers for bed bugs.

    These are often grouped under IPM (Integrated Pest Management) and are valuable because they reduce reliance on pesticides, lower resistance risks, and appeal to eco-conscious clients.


    Key Difference in Plain Language

    • Chemical: Using pesticide products (in sprays, gels, dusts, etc.) to kill or repel pests.
    • Non-chemical: Using physical, mechanical, biological, or environmental methods that don't involve pesticides.

    Need advice? Reach out for more information!

    Contact Us
  • What areas do you service for pest control in Port Macquarie?

    NatureWise Pest Control proudly provides local pest control services in Port Macquarie and surrounding Mid North Coast areas. With a pet-aware approach, we aim to provide safe pest control to all our clients.


    We service locations within a 45-minute radius, include Wauchope, Lake Cathie, Kempsey, Bonny Hills, and Beechwood, ensuring residents and businesses receive fast, reliable, and tailored pest solutions.


    Whether you need a general pest inspection, cockroach treatment, termite protection, or rodent control, our team delivers eco-friendly and effective results across the region.


    Ready to book your free inspection?

    Book Now
  • How do you manage risks when applying pesticides?

    At NatureWise Pest Control, safety and precision are our top priorities. We use targeted application methods, only treating pests

    that have been correctly identified during inspection.


    Our warranty and free service period also cover absent pests you specifically requested treatment for.If those pests weren’t active or visible at the time of service (such as a real estate–required flea treatment), we avoid unnecessary blanket spraying. Instead, if they appear later, we’ll return to treat them under warranty.


    To further reduce risks, we follow strict protocols including targeted application methods, protective equipment, spill prevention and emergency kits, exposure monitoring, and low-toxicity product selection.


    Non-chemical options such as pest proofing, specialised vacuuming, silica dust, eco oils, steam and heat treatments are also

    incorporated as pesticide alternatives.


    We also advise clients on product safety, re-entry times, and pet safety.


    This responsible, science-based approach ensures effective pest control in the Port Macquarie area while protecting your family,

    pets, and the environment.

    Book My Free Inspection
  • How safe are your pest control treatments for children, pets, and families?

    Our low-toxicity pest control treatments are carefully chosen and applied using safe techniques with care and consideration for

    children, pets, and sensitive environments.


    We specialize in non-chemical eco-friendly pest management solutions whenever possible, and when chemical use is

    necessary, we apply only approved, in-date products at the correct rates to minimize risk.


    This makes our services ideal for homes, schools, hospitals, childcare centres, and aged care facilities across Port Macquarie

    and the Mid North Coast. We’ll walk you through the treatment choices and trade-offs, apply controls to minimize exposure, and keep you fully informed with step-by-step guidance and re-entry times.


    We avoid making claims such as "safe for children" or "safe pest control service", with an honest approach to minimizing

    potential risks. Click below to request your free inspection, advice, and quote.

    Request Inspection
  • Why choose NatureWise Pest Control?

    At NatureWise Pest Control, our focus goes beyond simply eliminating pests — we take a triple-protection approach: protecting

    our technicians, protecting your property and family, and protecting pets and the environment.


    1. Protecting our Technicians


    Our technicians follow strict lab-level safety procedures to ensure safe chemical handling and application. This includes:


    • Wearing full PPE, including disposable overalls that are not laundered, preventing any pesticide residues from contaminating other clothing or entering drains/waterways.
    • Using reference flash cards, reminder signs, safety data sheets (SDS), and chemical labels before every treatment to guarantee correct usage.
    • Daily Pre-Service Checks – technicians log respirator condition, PPE integrity, chemical storage condition, and vehiclesafety before starting the day.
    • PPE Contamination Protocols – contaminated PPE is bagged, sealed, labeled and disposed of safely; clean PPE is stored separately and labeled.
    • Decontamination Zone in Vehicle/Workstation – designated “clean” vs “dirty” storage areas in service vehicles for tools and PPE, clearly marked and separated.
    • First Aid & Emergency Preparedness – all technicians carry first-aid kits, on site portable eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, and are trained in immediate response for spills, splashes, or inhalation.
    • Ongoing Health Monitoring – technicians undergo bi-monthly blood tests to track key pesticide exposure indicators (such as cholinesterase enzyme levels). Results are used proactively to identify any hidden or cumulative exposure risks, with job rotation and recovery plans in place to allow safe detox and reduce long-term health impacts.

    2. Protecting Your Property and Family


    We treat your property with care and integrity by:

    • Using pest-specific, targeted treatments instead of blanket spraying.
    • Applying gel baits on Pestie Dotz non-damaging stickers, preventing stains on walls or furniture and allowing for easy removal.
    • Using "re-entry period" door signs with "safe to enter" time clearly visible.
    • Providing both a detailed digital report (via email or text) and a simple service card in person after every visit.
    • Ensuring clear signage, client notifications, and authority reporting (including the EPA) in the unlikely event of a spill or exposure.
    • Precise Application Practices – sprays and dusts are applied with controlled, even coverage to avoid overuse or mess. We avoid spraying glass and windows, ensuring a clean finish with no smears or chemical residues left behind.

    3. Protecting Pets and the Environment


    Our eco-conscious approach includes:

    • Promoting non-chemical controls (such as pest proofing, specialised vacuuming, and habitat modification) as the foundation of every program.
    • Advising clients on beneficial insects and animals that naturally control pest species.
    • Avoiding treatments on flowering plants to protect pollinators.
    • Avoiding applications where rainwater could carry chemicals into waterways.
    • Avoiding chemical treatments to veggie gardens, water tanks and other sensitive locations as well as avoiding spray drift and providing guidance on organic/eco-based alternatives.
    • Using only reduced-risk, targeted products when chemical treatments are necessary.
    • Carrying spill kits, drain covers, and a portable wash station that collects all rinse water from tools, PPE and hands.
    • Collecting and containing all chemical waste: dry waste is disposed of via approved facilities, and liquid waste is collected by ChemClear (at our expense) for safe disposal.

    Choosing NatureWise means choosing a pest control provider that values safety, integrity, and sustainability — protecting

    people, property, pets, and the planet while delivering reliable results.

    Request Free Inspection
  • How often should pest control be done in Port Macquarie?

    For most homes, annual pest control treatments are recommended to keep common pests under control.


    However, properties near bushland, waterways, or coastal areas may require more frequent visits.


    Businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and rental properties often need quarterly treatments to meet health and safety

    requirements.


    Our team can recommend a schedule tailored to your property and risk level.


    We offer 12 and 24 month service plans with locked-in rates and discounts aimed at businesses and problem locations.


    Due for a service?

    Book A Free Inspection
  • Do you treat termites?

    At present, NatureWise Pest Control focuses on general pest treatments.


    In NSW, termite inspections and treatments require a specialised timber pest license.


    Until we add this service, we can refer you to trusted local partners for termite control. This ensures you always get the right expertise for your property.


    Need reputable recommendations?

    Contact Us
  • Do you provide possum or bird proofing?

    We provide advice and assistance with possum and bird proofing, including sealing entry points and preventing animals from

    roosting in your roof.


    Where relocation is required, we work with licensed wildlife handlers and bird control specialists to ensure it is done legally and

    humanely.


    These services may be offered directly or through our trusted partners.

    Book Free Inspection
  • About "Pet-Safe Pest Control" and SEO

    No pesticide can ever be considered 100% safe for pets. Some rodent baits do have an antidote that veterinarians can administer if treatment is sought quickly, while certain modern rodenticides are designed to reduce the risk of secondary poisoning—especially important for protecting native wildlife.


    At NatureWise Pest Control, our pet-aware approach always starts with non-chemical methods first. Only when necessary do

    we carefully use baits in locked bait-stations, selecting products that either have an antidote available or that lower the risk of

    secondary poisoning.


    To further reduce risks, we strongly recommend improving hygiene and removing conditions that attract pests:

    • Minimise food and water sources.
    • Clear away clutter such as wooden pallets or old outdoor furniture.
    • Keep garbage secured and regularly removed.

    This integrated approach not only keeps your pets safer but also makes your home less attractive to pests in the long term.


    Phrases such as “pet-safe pest control” or “safe pest control” are commonly searched terms online, and many businesses use

    them heavily for SEO.


    At NatureWise Pest Control, we take a more transparent approach. While we want to reach customers searching for those

    terms, we also strive to avoid making misleading claims. Instead, we focus on wording that reflects our genuine practices, such as:

    • “Pet-aware pest control”
    • "Pet-friendly service"
    • “Low-toxicity treatments”
    • “With an aim to provide safe pest control”

    By combining accurate, honest language with careful SEO strategy, we ensure that people searching for pet-safe pest control in

    Port Macquarie (or similar terms) can still find us—while also being confident that we are upfront about the real risks and our

    responsible methods to minimise them.


    Want more information about safe pest control options?


    Check out our blog.

    Blog