Third Riverland Qfly outbreak discovered at Cooltong

The latest discovery came through the detection of larvaeu in backyard peaches and apples at Cooltong.

PIRSA, has acted swiftly to set up restrictions on the movement of fruit fly host produce and begun eradication within the red outbreak area, encompassing Cooltong and Calperum Station.

Primary Industries and Regions Biosecurity executive director Nathan Rhodes said authorities were working with stone fruit and wine grapegrowers in the affected area to ensure their market access needs are met.

"Eradication activities are immediately underway with PIRSA staff undertaking baiting and picking up fallen fruit in the red outbreak area," he said.

"Almost 110 staff are responding to the outbreaks in Renmark West, Monash and Cooltong.

"More than 32,000 kilograms of fruit has been collected across both the Renmark West and Monash outbreak areas since commencement of fruit fly response efforts in the Riverland."

Mr Rhodes said the local community was encouraged to visit the PIRSA website, identify where their home, school, business and other key locations are in relation to this outbreak, and read the details of what that means.

RELATED

"If you find a maggot in your fruit and veg or suspect fruit fly, seal it in an airtight plastic bag and contact the Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010 to arrange collection," he said.

"We continue our eradication efforts in both the Riverland and metropolitan Adelaide and remind everyone in the affected areas that our work is essential to protect SA from fruit fly.

"Please limit the movement of the fruit and vegetables at risk from fruit fly, to comply with our red, yellow or green areas so we can successfully eradicate this damaging pest."

Without further detections the Monash outbreak will be lifted on March 22 and at Renmark West outbreaks and Cooltong on May 5.

Start the day with all the big news in agriculture. Sign up here to receive our daily Stock Journal newsletter.