One-week SIT release starts early in Riverland

From Monday 21 July, the Fruit Fly Response Program will carry out a one-off, early release of sterile Queensland fruit flies in parts of the Riverland.

The release will target Renmark, Renmark North, Cooltong and Chaffey, with additional coverage in parts of Barmera, Berri and Glossop using vehicle-mounted units and strategically placed static bins.

This short, targeted effort is based on:

• a surplus of available sterile flies
• local areas with suitable winter ground cover
• recent fruit fly detection and mapping data.

“Rather than hold or dispose of the extra flies, we’re using them strategically while conditions still support a response,” said John Trappel, SIT Rear Out Facility Manager.

What’s happening this week?

• Vehicle-mounted releases will take place on mapped roads in selected hotspots.
• Static release bins will be placed in orchards or properties with adequate vegetation.
• After this one-week effort, aerial SIT releases will resume as scheduled.

Locations have been identified using detection data and satellite-based land surface temperature mapping, which help us understand where winter conditions may still support fruit fly activity.

Why static release?

While aerial release is our standard method, static release is occasionally used in specific situations—like when conditions favour early action on the ground.

The bigger picture

This activity is part of a broader strategy to drive down wild Queensland fruit fly numbers and support market access for Riverland growers.
The use of Sterile Insect Technology (SIT) has already played a significant role in South Australia's ongoing response efforts.

More information

• What is SIT? Sterile insect technique (SIT)
• Where are the outbreaks? Fruit fly outbreak map
• Need to report fruit fly? Call 1300 666 010.