A SENIOR State Government representative says removing potential fruit fly host material from Riverland orchards is “crucial” to eradicating the pest, after two outbreaks occurred on commercial properties within a week. 

PIRSA last Wednesday declared a new fruit fly outbreak at Waikerie following the detection of maggots in commercially grown apricots.

General manager of the fruit fly response Nick Secomb said properties within the outbreak area – known as Waikerie B – would be checked and baited by PIRSA officers. 

“The number of fruit flies and maggots being found in the Riverland at the moment is of concern and now more than ever it is crucial that people follow restrictions and do not move locally grown fruit from properties in red outbreak areas,” Mr Secomb said. 

“Fruit fly is posing a real risk to locally grown fruit – both commercially and in your backyard.

“We’re lucky maggots at this property were found before they became breeding flies. PIRSA fruit fly officers are now visiting the property and will be able to eradicate the hot spot.”

The detection of maggots in commercially grown apricots also led to a new fruit fly outbreak being declared at Swan Reach on Friday. 

Riverland Fruit Fly Committee chair Jason Size said growers needed to follow restrictions on the movement of fruit and the management of fruit waste. 

“At risk fruit and vegetables cannot move off commercial properties in red or yellow outbreak areas unless they meet market access accreditation requirements,” Mr Size said. 

“Growers are reminded that if you grow fruit and vegetables within a fruit fly-affected area you must obtain approval from PIRSA through certification before fruit is sold within the fruit fly-affected area, moved from your property within the red area… or moved outside of the yellow area.”

Primary producers impacted by current fruit fly outbreaks are encouraged to contact the free Family and Business (FaB) support program by visiting the website. 

Further information regarding current Riverland fruit fly outbreaks is available by visiting the website.