A new Queensland fruit fly outbreak has been declared in Barmera, following the detection of maggots found in home-grown nectarines.
Restrictions are now in place in the Barmera outbreak area, which takes in parts of the Barmera township. 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.
PIRSA General Manager of the Fruit Fly Response Nick Secomb said residents need to follow the restrictions that are now in place to prevent fruit fly from spreading to other areas.
"Search your address on the fruit fly website to check if you live, work or travel in the Barmera outbreak area and understand the restrictions now in place, such as not moving home-grown fruit from your property," said Mr Secomb.
"Whilst it’s disappointing to be reporting another fruit fly outbreak in the Riverland, it’s pleasing to see residents being vigilant by checking their fruit and reporting suspect fruit fly.
"The earlier that we can find and respond to an outbreak the more chance we have in eradicating it quickly.
"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.
"Fruit fly particularly like stone fruits such as apricots, nectarines, plum and peaches because the skin is soft and easy to pierce. Nobody wants to find maggots in their fruit."
Chair of the Riverland Fruit Fly Committee Jason Size said commercial fruit movement restrictions are now in place for growers in the Barmera outbreak area.
"All host fruit must be treated and certified before leaving the Barmera 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.