Tasmania’s fruit fly control area has been extended to the East across the Tamar River.
Biosecurity Tasmania general manager Lloyd Klumpp confirmed on Tuesday that five adult fruit fly and larvae had been detected in fruit at George Town via ongoing surveillance activities.
“This monitoring has identified four additional fruit fly and larvae which indicates there is an active population in the vicinity of this site,” Dr Klumpp said.
The Greater Devonport control zone was expanded from the original Spreyton zone last week, with the new boundary now encompassing much of the Tamar mouth region.
With the top edge covering between Ulverstone in the North West and Beechford in the North East, and bounded by Sheffield, Port Sorrell and Batman Bridge, the zone has almost doubled.
Dr Klumpp said the department was liaising directly with growers in the new control area.
“We have been speaking directly to Wine Tasmania, Fruit Growers Tasmania and the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association and will also be liaising with other fruit and produce growers within the new control area. Currently we are also arranging a forum for growers so they can talk directly to the department,” Dr Klumpp said.
“We recognise that the implementation of this new control area impacts on both industry and the wider community. However we want to acknowledge the industry and community vigilance and support that has been provided so far and encourage you to continue to work with us as we undertake this work,” he said.
For more information about fruit flies visit dpipwe.tas.gov.au/fruitfly or report sightings to Biosecurity Tasmania Fruit Fly Hotline on 6165 3774.
Johanna Baker-Dowdell
Johanna has more than 22 years experience as a journalist for newspapers, magazines and online publications.
Johanna has more than 22 years experience as a journalist for newspapers, magazines and online publications.
