In late June, the Australian Plague Locust Commission, part of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, released an Autumn update and Spring outlook bulletin.
It is unusual to have an update in June. The commission reported that most locust habitats remained in good conditions during autumn and favourable conditions for locust breeding continue during winter, meaning a high likelihood of regional infestations developing in spring.
Furthermore, Spur-throated Locusts are expected to develop swarms with a moderate-high risk in winter across some parts of Queensland and New South Wales.
This does not bode well for both Australian Plague Locusts and Spur-throated Locusts for spring and summer 2024/25.
The situation is vastly different for Migratory Locusts which are expected to be a very low risk through spring 2024.
By comparison, the April 2023 bulletin had all three locust species as being at low risk for Summer 2023/24.
Growers are asked to remain aware of the locust situation in your region.
Vinehealth Australia will continue to monitor the locust situation carefully, but if you are noticing swarms, please reach out to the ALPC on 1800 900 090 or online at Online enquiries.