With the 2020 Tour Down Under fast approaching, we’ve written to vineyard owners with properties along the route to advise that the race will pass within 50 metres of their vineyards.
We encourage all vineyard owners in the race zones to manage the increased biosecurity risk that accompanies major events.
As Australia’s premier cycling event, the Tour Down Under offers entertainment and action in central Adelaide and surrounding wine regions. This event will bring an increased number of tourists to our regions, who may attempt to watch the race near or even in vineyards.
Pests, diseases and weeds can be unknowingly picked up on shoes, clothes or tyres and taken from one vineyard, region or state to another.
To protect vineyards from unwanted pests, diseases and weeds, we remind vineyard owners not to let unauthorised people into vineyards during the TDU, as there is no way of knowing where these tourists have been in the days and weeks prior.
There are some simple protocols that can help to keep vines safe:
- Put up signs: we have created popular biosecurity signs for vineyard owners. There are two styles of signs available – one style for operational entrances and one sign for tourist entrances.
- Create a barrier: vineyards can be separated from roads and paths, either temporarily in the form of bunting, or with a permanent structure such as a fence or hedge.
- Be present during the race: ensure there is someone present on the day of the race to remind tourists not to drive or walk into vineyards.
If you would like to order a sign, please contact us quickly on (08) 8273 0550 or admin@vinehealth.com.au to ensure your signs will be ready in time.
Further information about TDU dates, times and route maps can be found at www.tourdownunder.com.au.