Fruit fly restrictions have been extended in the Riverland until October 2022, following fruit fly detections in surveillance traps within the existing suspension areas for Pike River and Renmark West.
Just days ago, the restrictions - which were originally set to lift this month - had been extended from May 6 to May 16, but the reprieve has now been extended a further five months.
PIRSA's fruit fly response general manager Nick Secomb said the new detections had come at a time when it was possible for Queensland fruit fly to survive through winter.
"Fruit fly overwinter, which is similar to hibernation, so we need to extend the outbreak end date further over the cooler months, including into spring, due to the cooler temperatures," he said.
"Adult flies can emerge from the pupae in as little as seven days during summer, but are able to survive as adults over winter."
The new end date for the outbreaks in Renmark West and Pike River is October 25, provided there are no further detections.
The restrictions were first placed on the Riverland area in December, 2020.
"The local community has done a tremendous job supporting the fruit fly response program and following prevention restrictions for over a year now," Mr Secomb said.
"Fruit fly is most active in the warmer months, so we ask everyone to remain vigilant and help get rid of fruit flies in the Riverland.
"I encourage everyone - from residents and schools to growers to travellers - please continue to follow fruit fly restrictions so we can end the outbreaks."
RELATED READING:
Mr Secomb said they were asking for people to check their fruit for maggots, seal anything suspicious in a plastic bag and call the Fruit Fly Hotline on 1300 666 010.
PIRSA will continue operations to eradicate of fruit fly in Pike River and Renmark West by applying organic bait to trees, releasing sterile fruit flies, installing and checking traps, and checking for signs of fruit fly in backyard and commercial fruit.
"It is disappointing that we've not been able to lift restrictions, particularly for the local horticulture industry operating around Pike River and Renmark West, which have had to comply with additional regulations and exporting restrictions," he said.
"Primary producers affected by the fruit fly outbreaks can access free advice via the Family and Business Support program."
Producers can also call the PIRSA Recovery Hotline 1800 931 314 or visit fruitfly.sa.gov.au/industry-support for more information.
Start the day with all the big news in agriculture. Sign up here to receive our daily Stock Journal newsletter.