In a bid to continue to safeguard SA against a Queensland fruit fly outbreak, the government helped to release millions of sterile flies at Lindsay Point, Vic.
The on-ground operation within the 1.5 kilometre outbreak area will involve the release of fruit flies produced at the Port Augusta-based National Sterile Insect Technology facility.
Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone said releasing sterile flies at Lindsay Point was a key tool in the cross-border eradication response.
"Working with our team on the ground, as well as Agriculture Victoria, we have taken a pro-active approach to the eradication of Queensland fruit fly at Lindsay Point with the release of millions of sterile flies into the outbreak area," he said.
"It is important to emphasise that releasing SIT fruit flies in the outbreak area over the next month is just one component of the eradication program which also includes hygiene and baiting operations."
The state government has been working with growers in the Victorian outbreak area and Riverland citrus growers in the suspension area as part of the eradication response.
Mr Whetstone said ensuring SA maintained its fruit fly free status was vital for the state's international market access.
Without further detections, the Lindsay Point quarantine zone will be lifted on December 22.
