A new Queensland fruit fly outbreak has been declared in Waikerie, called Waikerie C, after fruit fly maggots were found in a peach on a residential property.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) staff will be visiting all properties within the new 1.5km red outbreak areas to inspect yards, apply organic bait and provide residents with information about what they need to do.
PIRSA Incident Controller of the Fruit Fly Emergency Response, Rob Baker said it is disappointing that we have another fruit fly outbreak in Waikerie and restrictions are now in place for growers and residents in the Waikerie C area.
“The Waikerie community, both residents and growers, have been doing a great job checking for and reporting cases of fruit fly,” said Mr Baker.
“With the continued support of the Waikerie community in identifying fruit fly, PIRSA is able to treat hot spots quickly and we are confident that by treating existing and new outbreaks we will eventually eradicate the pest.
“Whilst there are currently over 30 outbreaks in the Riverland, fruit fly activity in a quarter of these areas is very low. The eradication response is being managed in a way that allows growers to securely move fruit certified by PIRSA across outbreak areas, making it possible for them to still do business.
“Under current arrangements, all outbreak areas remain in place until we reach the single end date or as we are advised by national authorities.
“Search your address on the fruit fly interactive map to see how fruit and vegetable movement restrictions affect you, depending where you live, travel, work or go to school.”
Chair of the Riverland Fruit Fly Committee and local grower Jason Size encourages growers in the new Waikerie C outbreak area to apply for the self-baiting program.
“If you are a commercial grower in the Waikerie C outbreak area, go to the fruit fly website to understand the fruit movement restrictions now in place and please consider applying for PIRSA's self-baiting program, where you will receive free bait and lures that attract and kill fruit fly,” said Mr Size.
“If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to start, contact a Family and Business Support (FaBS) mentor. It is free informal, confidential and independent conversation with a local Riverland mentor – by phone, or in person.”
Growers can learn more about FaBS or call a Riverland FaB mentor directly:
- 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 for the most up to date outbreak advice:
- see fruitfly.sa.gov.au
- call the Fruit Fly Hotline: 1300 666 010.
