Campaign shows tough approach to fruit pest

Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone launched the revamped campaign with industry members who helped shape the new campaign.

"There are zero strikes and zero excuses for bringing fruit and vegetables into SA," he said.

"If travellers try to bring fruit or vegetables into SA or into a pest-free area, they will receive a $375 fine.

"Fruit fly is one of the world's most destructive pests and we continue to send the travelling public the strong message: don't ignore the signs. Bin fruit before the border or you'll pay for it."

Mr Whetstone said the campaign had been revamped to keep the existing law front of mind to help protect the state's $1.3 billion horticulture industry.

"Farmers interstate spend millions on control measures to suppress fruit flies," he said.

"Our farmers, particularly those in the Riverland, enjoy premium markets overseas because SA is fruit fly free."

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Riverland Fruit Fly Committee member Jason Size said it was exciting to see the new campaign being launched.

"Fruit fly awareness with members of the public is critical, we need to educate travellers about SA's quarantine requirements," he said.

"As a grower, we have many benefits being in a fruit fly free state, and especially the internationally recognised Riverland Pest Free area.

"It enables us to grow our fruit without the need for pesticides and allows us to export our produce to markets without the need for treatments."

The importance of the State Government's zero tolerance approach was highlighted by the two outbreaks of fruit fly in metropolitan Adelaide at Blair Athol and Croydon Park.

There is a large contingent of biosecurity officers on the ground going door to door inspecting trees and fruit to control the outbreak.

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