RIVERLAND growers are being urged to participate in a fruit fly baiting program after the region’s 28th current outbreak was declared. 

PIRSA declared a new fruit fly outbreak at Chaffey on February 15, after male specimens were found in a trap on a commercial property. 

Riverland Fruit Fly Committee chair Jason Size said it was crucial local growers registered for PIRSA’s self-baiting program. 

“Commercial Riverland growers in red outbreak areas are eligible to be part of the fruit fly self-baiting program and will be supplied with free fruit fly bait and lures to use on their properties,” Mr Size said. 

“Wine grape growers in red outbreak areas are also being offered Entrust to mix with their sulphur sprays. 

“I urge growers to check their eligibility and sign up for the self-baiting program that is available to them, don’t leave it up to others to do the right thing – you have to.” 

PIRSA general manager of the fruit fly response Nick Secomb said an increased number of outbreaks were expected during warmer conditions. 

“If your block or house is in the Chaffey red outbreak area, please keep your fruit and vegetables on your property and don’t share, sell or give them away,” Mr Secomb said. 

“By identifying fruit fly in the Riverland and implementing our eradication processes quickly we maximise our chance to eradicate this pest.”

Meanwhile, the detection of fruit fly in traps has extended the boundary of the existing Barmera outbreak area to now include some properties on either side of Thiele Road, Swinstead Road and Bassham Road.

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 Riverland fruit fly outbreaks is available by visiting the website.