PROMINENT signage warning of South Australia’s ‘Zero Strikes’ campaign will be carried on interstate routes as part of the State Government’s initiative to retain its fruit fly free status.
Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone visited Nippy’s in Waikerie last Tuesday to unveil the latest zero tolerance warning in the State Government and Citrus SA initiative.
Mr Whetstone said travellers have “no excuse” for bringing possible fruit fly host material into the state.
“The prominent ‘Zero Strikes’ signage on the back of trucks travelling across the country is another great way to get the zero tolerance message across,” he said.
“Citrus SA approached us with the idea to promote the fruit fly campaign on the back of trucks and this move follows increased signage on the Sturt Highway, reminding travellers to dispose of their fruit and vegetables at the quarantine bins before reaching the Yamba quarantine station.
“There are zero strikes and zero excuses for bringing prohibited fruit and vegetables into South Australia.
“We have a global reputation to protect, so it is critical everyone does their bit to keep SA fruit fly free.”
Trucks fitted with the signage include Nippy’s, Venus Citrus, Hentschke Transport and Sprint Freight, in collaboration with Citrus SA. Twenty buses in Adelaide have also been fitted with the campaign signage.
Nippy’s joint managing director Jeff Knispel said fruit fly free status saves hundreds of thousands of dollars in the exporting market.
“Fruit fly free status gives us a great credibility of stock into the market,” he said.
“We’re acutely aware of the benefits of the status, and this new signage will help boost that status, awareness, and bring further profit to the market and industry.”
Citrus SA chairman Mark Doecke said four trucks are being fitted with the new artwork.
“The horticulture sector is working with the State Government to get the message about zero tolerance out to the public,”
he said.
“The zero tolerance stance to fruit fly is absolutely necessary for our citrus industry, as being fruit fly free is one of our market advantages.
“It would be devastating if fruit fly hit the Riverland region. That’s why we do everything we can to keep it out.”