Fuel the fun, not fruit fly at Loveday 400

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) has issued a fresh warning ahead of the high-octane event, reminding visitors that bringing restricted produce into the region could put local crops at risk from fruit fly.

“Events like the Loveday 400 bring a welcome boost to the community, but they also increase the risk of spreading fruit fly,” said Jason Size, General Manager of the Fruit Fly Response Program. “We’re asking all visitors to play their part by leaving restricted fruit and fruiting vegetables at home, or use the quarantine bins before entering the Riverland.”

PIRSA conducts regular random roadblocks across the region to inspect vehicles for restricted produce. Anyone found carrying restricted fruit and vegetables, including common items like citrus, tomatoes, capsicums or bananas, may face a $420 fine.

With many fans camping or stocking up for the Loveday 400 event, PIRSA is encouraging visitors to shop locally instead of packing their own supplies.

“We know people will be bringing food, but there’s no need to risk it,” Mr Size said. “The Riverland is home to some of the best fresh produce in the country. By buying local, you’re helping keep the Riverland safe from fruit fly and supporting the growers who keep it thriving.”

Restricted fruit and vegetables can still be brought into the Riverland if they’ve been properly treated, including being canned, cooked, dried, frozen, grated or pureed, to eliminate any risk of spreading fruit fly. A full list of approved preparation methods is available at fruitfly.sa.gov.au.

For travel advice, quarantine bin locations, and current outbreak updates visit fruitfly.sa.gov.au or call the 24-Hour Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.

Detections

Below is a summary of the detections of fruit fly for the 12 week period from 21 April to 13 July 2025:

• No flies were detected in 25 of the 56 Riverland outbreak areas.
• Flies were detected in 31 of the 56 Riverland outbreak areas.

Outbreak end dates

The end dates for all outbreaks are as follows:

• The end dates for all outbreaks are as follows:
• Riverland: 23 December 2025
• Ceduna: 11 November 2025
• Glynde: 6 December 2025
• Salisbury North: 6 December2025

Contact

For more information about fruit fly, self-baiting, or the latest outbreak advice, visit fruitfly.sa.gov.au or call the 24-Hour Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.

PIRSA Family and Business (FaB) mentors are available to support Riverland residents through this challenging time. FaB mentors are available for a free, informal, confidential, and independent conversation in person or over the phone.

Riverland and Murraylands FaB mentors include Robyn Cain (0411 633 085), John Chase (0419 848 672), and Brent Fletcher (0439 409 430). Learn more at pir.sa.gov.au/fabs or call the FaB mentors directly.