QUARANTINE zones preventing fruit being transported between Riverland towns will be extended into April after a third local outbreak of fruit fly was declared last week.
The State Government last Friday declared a second outbreak of Queensland fruit fly in Renmark West, following a previously declared outbreak in the same area and in Monash.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said a team of more than 70 staff was baiting and testing for fruit fly at local properties.
“We are throwing everything we can at the Riverland fruit fly outbreaks as we recognise the importance of eradicating this pest as fast as possible,” Mr Basham said.
“No stone is being left unturned to protect our $1.3 billion fruit fly vulnerable horticulture industry.
“Officers are already on the ground in the new outbreak area in Renmark West, applying organic bait and removing fruit from affected properties.”
Local fruit growers met with PIRSA representatives at Mirage Citrus in Renmark last Friday to discuss the outbreak.
CitrusSA chair Mark Doecke said the latest outbreak illustrated the importance of all Riverlanders removing potential host material from backyards and orchards.
“The trapping grid is going right across the Riverland,” Mr Doecke said
“Everyone in the Riverland, residents and growers, everyone and anyone, needs to be vigilant to prevent it spreading further.”
It is understood the new outbreak will have no impact on the rest of the Riverland’s fruit-fly free-status.
The State Government declared an initial outbreak of fruit fly in Renmark West on December 23, before another outbreak was declared in Monash on December 30.
Mr Basham said the State Government would assist Riverland growers to ensure fruit could still be transported to markets.
“Residents and businesses within the outbreak areas will be receiving information… about the outbreak and associated quarantine restrictions, detailing what part they can play in preventing the spread of these pests,” he said.
“These outbreaks are impacting the stone fruit and citrus industries right now and we are working with growers to (make sure) they have treatment options available so fruit can still reach market where possible.
“Since the initial outbreak at Renmark West, the Liberal Government has been liaising closely with the Riverland horticulture industry particularly in regard to the movement of produce and quarantine restrictions”
Quarantine areas will remain around the Monash outbreak zone until at least March 22, while the Renmark West quarantine areas will now remain until at least April 6.
Further information regarding fruit fly outbreaks in the Riverland can be found by visiting the PIRSA website (www.pir.sa.gov.au/fruitfly) or by phone on 1800 255 556.