South Australians must remain vigilant against the threat of fruit fly, which can be spread through the movement of infested fruit and vegetables, including grapes, by travellers or in commercial consignments (1).
There are three current Mediterranean fruit fly outbreaks in Adelaide being actively managed by Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) – Biosecurity SA: at Blair Athol, Croydon Park and Angle Park.
Blair Athol
- As at 16 March, movement conditions remain in place until at least 17 December 2020.
- For further information including maps, refer here.
- One semi-commercial vineyard currently falls into the suspension area and was advised of the movement controls that apply.
Croydon Park
- As at 16 March, movement conditions remain in place until at least 17 December 2020.
- For further information including maps, refer here.
- No commercial or semi-commercial vineyards on Vinehealth Australia’s Vineyard Register currently fall into the outbreak or suspension areas.
Angle Park
- As at 16 March, movement conditions remain in place until at least 17 December 2020.
- For further information including maps, refer here.
- No commercial or semi-commercial vineyards on Vinehealth Australia’s Vineyard Register currently fall into the outbreak or suspension areas.
Reminders for industry
- For carriers transporting winegrape loads during vintage while movement conditions are in place, it is preferable to choose a route that avoids transiting the fruit fly affected area. Where this is not possible, a truck must not stop, backload or unload while transiting through the fruit fly affected area.
- Winegrape growers are reminded to ensure that every load is consigned to prevent spillage (i.e. by retaining at least a 200mm gap between the top of the load and the top lip of the truck or bin). While this is relevant to fruit fly outbreaks, it is also best practice for general biosecurity and, of course, safety.
- To report suspected fruit fly, phone the 24-hour Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.
References