Stop the sharing of home-grown produce

Jason Size, Incident Controller of the Fruit Fly Emergency Response for the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) said this crucial step is one of the most effective ways to control the spread of fruit fly – alongside the important practice of keeping produce off of the ground.

“For many in the Riverland, sharing home-grown goods with family and friends means a lot to many people – it’s a cherished tradition,” Mr Size said.

“However, to safeguard our community, it’s essential that we are more cautious during periods of outbreak – so if you want to share it, you’ll need to process it first to ensure that it’s safe.”

Mr Size encouraged residents to visit fruitfly.sa.gov.au for guidance and recipes on safely processing host fruit and vegetables to make them safe to move.

“If your home-grown host fruit and veg are fresh, please don’t sell, share, or donate them if you’re in these affected areas,” he said.

“Our website offers a variety of recipes that allow you to enjoy and share your home-grown restricted produce safely – and using these recipes to process the food makes it possible to share delicious foods and meals with loved ones without compromising safety.”

Reflecting on South Australia’s unique position among other mainland Australian states and territories, Mr Size remarked on the challenges posed by different varieties of fruit fly found in neighbouring regions.

“We’re committed to protecting our horticultural industry and the livelihoods of those who depend on it, which is why we need everyone to follow these guidelines during the outbreak,” he said.

“It’s safe to move produce if it’s store-bought, as it’s undergone all the necessary treatments – but when it comes to home-grown, it’s something we have to keep at home to reduce the risks.”

In positive news, no new Queensland fruit fly outbreaks have been reported in the Riverland over the past two weeks, keeping the total number of outbreaks stable at 56.

PIRSA will continue to release sterile flies at Lindsay Point, Loxton, Murtho, New Residence, and Pyap until 23 February 2025. Visit sterile insect technique (SIT) for more information.

Total Riverland outbreak data breakdown

As of 17 February:

• 27 of the 56 outbreak areas did not have detections in the preceding 12 weeks.
• 29 of the 56 outbreak areas did have detections in the preceding 12 weeks.

As of 9 February:

• 27of the 56 outbreak areas did not have detections in the preceding 12 weeks.
• 29 of the 56 outbreak areas did have detections in the preceding 12 weeks.

Outbreak end dates

The end dates for all outbreaks are as follows:

• Riverland: 06 May 2025
• Glynde: 09 May 2025
• Salisbury: 09 May 2025

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

• Robyn Cain – 0411 633 085
• John Chase – 0419 848 672
• Brent Fletcher – 0439 409 430.

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