News

Queensland fruit fly outbreaks declared in Winkie

Thursday 23 March 2023

New Queensland fruit fly outbreaks have been declared in Winkie after maggots were found in backyard peaches from separate properties.


The maggots were discovered outside the existing Winkie outbreak area, causing two new outbreak areas, called Winkie B and Winkie C. The maggots were discovered after members of public reported suspect fruit fly to the Fruit Fly Hotline.

Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) staff will be visiting all properties within the new 1.5 km red outbreak areas to inspect yards, apply organic bait and provide residents with information about what they need to do.

PIRSA General Manager of the Fruit Fly Response Nick Secomb said stone fruit is highly appealing for fruit flies and needs to be picked urgently.

"Most of our recent outbreaks have started after fruit fly maggots were found in stone fruit like peaches, plums and apricots. Please, if you have these fruits growing in your yard, pick them as soon as they are ripe," said Mr Secomb.

"I encourage all Riverland residents to attend the fruit fly community meetings being held across the Riverland from 29–31 March to hear about the fruit fly response and to ask questions.

"It’s positive to see the community actively looking for and reporting fruit fly. It means PIRSA can pinpoint and proactively treat outbreaks early before they become established. It also means right now with finding a lot of fruit fly we have a growing number outbreaks.

"We are still on track with eradication but it is going to take time. Fruit flies become very active in the warmer months and they generally are less active over winter."

Chair of the Riverland Fruit Fly Committee and local grower Jason Size said we can fight fruit fly if we all work together.

"The more everyone plays a part the quicker we will be able to get back to being fruit fly free – that means continuing to successfully grow our own fruits without treatment, sharing our fruits, lower grower costs and lucrative trade opportunities," said Mr Size.

"It's as simple as removing ripe fruit promptly, cleaning up yards and particularly collecting fallen fruit, and if you’re a grower, being part of PIRSA’s self-baiting program."

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 at Family and Business 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 www.fruitfly.sa.gov.au or call the Fruit Fly Hotline 1300 666 010.

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