FRUIT fly quarantine restrictions have been imposed on another Riverland town, after the detection of larvae in backyard fruit caused a new outbreak to be declared. 

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) last week declared an outbreak of Queensland fruit fly at Loxton. 

Chaffey MP Tim Whetstone said quarantine requirements would have economic impacts on local growers throughout winter. 

“These detections are disappointing as we know that fruit fly is one of the world’s most destructive pests and the Riverland horticulture industry has spent decades working to achieve and maintain a fruit fly free status,” Mr Whetstone said. 

“The fruit fly detections trigger suspension zones and growers in these suspension zones cannot get their fruit to market without expensive treatment.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of the community’s co-operation in preventing the further spread of fruit fly, and I encourage everyone to visit the PIRSA website for suspension zone information and what your responsibilities are during this outbreak.

“I urge the incoming (state) government to continue to support this fight against fruit fly. The economy of a premier food bowl region like the Riverland relies on the fruit fly-free status and the government must maintain this status.”

Fruit fly outbreaks are also ongoing at Renmark West and Pike River. 

PIRSA fruit fly response general manager Nick Secomb said it was vital all members of the community followed restriction guidelines. 

“Our teams in orange overalls are contacting residents with information about what to do now they are in a red outbreak area, and will be regularly applying organic bait to suitable foliage in properties, as well as checking fruit for signs of fruit fly,” Mr Secomb 

“If you are in a red outbreak area, please keep your fruit and vegetables on your property and don’t share, sell or give them away. Search your address on the map on the fruit fly website to check if you’re in a red outbreak area.

“I urge everyone in the region to keep gardens and properties tidy. Collect fallen fruit and don’t let fruit rot on the ground – this is essential in fruit fly prevention to stop the lifecycle.

“These actions are an essential tactic, in combination with the work of our field teams, to protect South Australia’s $1.3 billion horticulture industry at risk from fruit fly and the tens of thousands of jobs it represents.”

Local primary producers impacted by the fruit fly outbreaks are encouraged to contact the Family and Business Support program by phone on 1800 931 314, or by visiting the website. 

Further information regarding fruit fly outbreaks in the Riverland can be found by visiting the PIRSA website.

RIVERLAND QUARANTINE DATES IN PLACE UNTIL:

• Renmark West – Queensland fruit fly – 17, November 2022
• Pike River – Queensland fruit fly – 17, November 2022
• Pike River West - Queensland fruit fly - 17, November 2022
• Loxton - Queensland fruit fly - 22, November 2022.