With the tough conditions being experienced in the wine industry, some growers might think protecting their vineyards from pest and disease threats is a waste of time.
In fact, one vineyard owner recently told us, “At the moment it wouldn’t worry me if my vineyard got Phylloxera.”
While this concerning position may reflect the sentiment of a small number of growers who were unable to sell their crops, difficult industry conditions do not absolve vineyard owners and managers – or anyone in the South Australian grape and wine industry – from their obligations of keeping phylloxera out of South Australia.
“We know these are difficult times and shortcuts might be taken on biosecurity. But it is at these times when we need to be most vigilant in keeping SA phylloxera free. Biosecurity should remain as a core vineyard activity, along with pruning, fungicide treatments and harvest,” said Warren Birchmore, Technical Assistant at Vinehealth Australia.
“It only takes one phylloxera insect to start an outbreak, which could spread between vineyards and regions and make industry conditions even harder.
“While one grower may have this stance, the majority of growers appreciate the work Vinehealth Australia undertakes, which is reflected by most having already paid their 2023/24 Vinehealth Australia levy.”
In recognition of the difficult industry conditions, the Vinehealth Australia Board restricted the 2023/24 levy increase to 3% rather than the allowable 4.8% of the SA Government indexation rate or the 7.9% annual inflation increase. The Vinehealth Australia Board also carefully considered the 2024/25 levy increase, which was recently gazetted at 3%.
The levy enables the small team of four at Vinehealth Australia to carry out biosecurity work to keep South Australian vineyards free of harmful pests such as phylloxera.
“If vineyard owners make the tough decision to cease production, we encourage them to either sell the vineyard to pass the baton of vineyard management to a new owner, or to remove the vines to eliminate the biosecurity risk,” Warren said.
“We also encourage growers to help and support each other, as we navigate these difficult industry times.”
Support services
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