Don’t forget fruit fly in biosecurity debate
Biosecurity is a hot button issue for regional Australia right now, highlighted by the recent discussion of the threat to the honey bee industry and last year’s equine flu outbreak.
But in the debate about these new threats, the Tri-State Fruit Fly Awareness Committee is calling on regional communities not to forget another constant enemy to Australia’s horticultural production – fruit fly.
“Economic disaster can hitch a ride on anything from a chilli to an orange. One piece of infested fruit or vegetable is all it takes, John Tesoriero, spokesperson for the Tri-State Committee said.
“This risk is here, it’s real and just because we’ve known about it for years doesn’t mean it’s any less of a threat to our communities and livelihoods in regional Australia,” Mr Tesoriero said.
“We continue to call on anyone travelling into the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone, which encompasses areas of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, and on anyone with fruit trees in the surrounding regions to be on the watch for this pest,” he said.
“There are severe fines for travellers ignoring the restrictions because infested produce can look fine on the outside. It’s only when you cut into it that you can see the maggots and you might not be able to see the eggs.
“Home gardeners are critical to protecting these industries as well. It’s important to make sure fallen fruit is not left on the ground, because that’s when the fly can get into it and start to breed.”
The Tri-State Fruit Fly Awareness Committee has established a dedicated website, www.fruitfly.net.au , with information on the pest for travellers and gardeners. It can also be accessed by travellers via their mobile phones at www.fruitfly.mobi . Anyone with produce they suspect may be infested should call the Fruit Fly Hotline on 1800 084 881.
“It’s wise to check before you travel,” Mr Tesoriero said. “Severe penalties apply and random and permanent roadblocks operate in and around the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone. Ignoring the restrictions could cost you thousands of dollars in fines.”
“We can’t overlook the fruit fly risk because of attention being diverted to a higher profile of newer biosecurity hazards, he said. “The livelihoods of thousands of Australians depend on all of us being vigilant and doing the right thing.”
