No new Queensland fruit fly outbreaks or outbreak boundary extensions have been declared in the Riverland from 15 to 28 August 2023.
Restrictions remain in place for existing outbreak and suspension areas and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) staff continue to visit properties to inspect yards, apply organic bait and provide residents with information about what they need to do.
Warmer weather is on its way and now is the time to undertake proper hygiene on your property and join up to the PIRSA fruit fly baiting program.
PIRSA General Manager of the Fruit Fly Emergency Response Program, Paul Dowsett, said we are working together with growers, industry and our Riverland community to meet the goal of eradication. Together we can increase the effort of applying baits and lures now, to increase our chances of getting ahead of peak fruit fly season.
'We're already facing a rapid spike in fruit fly numbers because of the warm weather around the corner,' said Mr Dowsett.
'PIRSA are providing free bait and lures for growers in the priority red outbreak areas, which are areas that are up to 1.5km from where outbreaks have been detected.'
These free bait and lures include Male Annihilation Technique devices, also known as MAT cups.
'Growers can hang MAT cups in trees on their property,' said Mr Dowsett.
'MAT cups are safe around humans and animals, but lure and kill male fruit flies.'
There are 3 ways growers can register for the PIRSA free self-baiting and lure program:
- online at self-baiting program
- email fruitfly@sa.gov.au
- call the Fruit Fly Hotline to request a registration form on 1300 666 010.
Riverland Fruit Fly Committee Chair and local grower Jason Size said that growers can do 2 important things to help eradicate fruit fly from the Riverland.
'One, make sure you’ve got good hygiene practices. This means disposing of all unwanted, fallen, or hanging fruit in the correct manner for securing any potentially infected fruits.'
'Two, manage the movement of fruit and vegetables from your property using the PIRSA guidelines on accessing Market Access for Riverland growers.'
To discuss options and become accredited to move restricted fruit and vegetables, contact the market access team:
Phone: 1800 255 556
Email: marketaccessrenmark.aaslocal@sa.gov.au
