Queensland fruit fly maggots found in a home-grown nectarine in Loxton North has triggered a new outbreak called Loxton North E.
Restrictions are now in place in the Loxton North E outbreak area. Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) staff will be visiting all properties within the new 1.5 km red outbreak area to inspect yards and provide residents with information about what they need to do.
With the new detection found outside of original outbreak lines, PIRSA General Manager of the Fruit Fly Response Nick Secomb said it has been a while since Loxton North has had a fruit fly outbreak which suggests that the controls that we originally applied in the area are continuing to have an effect.
"When we identify a fruit fly hotspot, we are able to treat it and eventually get on top of the problem at that site. We have seen this during the series of outbreaks in Loxton North last year which are still tracking well and which shows that we are able to get on top of sites like this with baiting, sterile fly releases and ongoing targeted larvae checks," said Mr Secomb.
"It’s important for people to remain vigilant in maintaining their backyard fruit trees as PIRSA cannot do it alone – make sure you continue to pick, check, collect and call if you suspect fruit fly.
"I urge all Riverland residents to pick their ripe home-grown fruit now, to remove the opportunity for fruit fly to sting it and lay eggs.
"We know our fruit fly eradication efforts work so let’s keep an eye on our backyard stone fruit during the summer and stop fruit fly in its tracks."
Chair of the Riverland Fruit Fly Committee Jason Size said commercial fruit movement restrictions are now in place for growers in the Loxton North E outbreak area.
"All host fruit must be treated and certified before leaving the Loxton North E outbreak area," said Mr Size.
"I encourage growers who are feeling overwhelmed and not sure on where to start in dealing with fruit fly to reach out to a local Family and Business (FaB) mentor for free, confidential support and advice."
Growers can learn more at Family and business (FaB) mentors or call a Riverland FaB directly: Robyn Cain 0411 633 085; John Chase 0419 848 672; Brent Fletcher 0439 409 430.
For the most up to date outbreak advice and other information visit fruitfly.sa.gov.au or call the Fruit Fly Hotline 1300 666 010.