An outbreak of Queensland fruit fly has been detected in Renmark West following the discovery of larvae in backyard fruit trees.
A 15-kilometre suspension area has been established around the detection point and quarantine restrictions apply either partially or entirely in the following areas – Berri, Calperum Station, Chaffey, Cooltong, Crescent, Gurra Gurra, Lyrup, Monash, Mundic Creek, Murtho, Old Calperum, Paringa, Pike River, Renmark, Renmark North, Renmark South, Renmark West, Wonuarra and Yamba areas.
In addition, a 1.5-kilometre outbreak area has been set up covering parts of Renmark West, Renmark South, Renmark and Crescent.
Restrictions now apply to growers, packers, retailers, wholesalers and residents located within the outbreak and suspension areas, and those transiting these areas, regarding the movement of fruit fly host produce. Wineries receiving fruit from the outbreak or suspension areas must also comply with requirements that will be put in place.
Grapes are considered fruit fly host produce.
Further details explaining the restrictions and impacts resulting from the outbreak declaration are available on PIRSA’s website, including general maps of the outbreak and suspension areas. Click here for a map showing vineyards on Vinehealth’s Register within the outbreak and suspension areas.
At this stage, if no further wild flies or larvae are detected it is anticipated the quarantine zone for the Renmark fruit fly outbreak will remain in place until at least 15 March 2021.
Given that restrictions will still be in place when harvest commences in January 2021, quarantine requirements for the movement of grapes within, out of and transiting through the outbreak or suspension areas will need to be complied with. Click here to view a Biosecurity Bulletin which outlines these requirements.
This outbreak has no impact on the fruit fly free status for the rest of the Riverland Pest Free Area or the State.
The State Government has immediately commenced an eradication program to eliminate fruit flies from the outbreak area and nearby surrounds. The Department of Primary Industries and Regions staff are in the Riverland now applying organic bait and removing fruit and vegetables from properties in the affected area.
If you reside in the quarantine area, please help us eradicate the pest by:
- Not moving fruit or vegetables off your property (or giving it away).
- Clean your backyard of all ripe fruit or fruiting vegetables and those lying on the ground.
- If you find maggots in your fruit or vegetables – please call the 24hr Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.
- Do not keep backyard fruit trees unless you are actively managing them.
If you would like further information, please contact the Plant Health Market Access hotline on 08 8207 7814 or PIRSA.PlantHealthMarketAccess@sa.gov.au or contact the dedicated Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.