NSW Government Issues Control Order to Protect Horticulture from Devastating Virus

In a decisive move to safeguard New South Wales’ lucrative tomato, capsicum, and chilli industries, the Minns Labor Government has issued a Control Order aimed at reducing the risk of the highly contagious tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) from entering the state. The virus, confrmed for the frst time in Australia in August 2024 in tomato crops near Adelaide, poses a signifcant threat to the nation’s $5.8 billion vegetable and $2.8 billion plant nursery industries.

Though NSW remains free of the virus, the Control Order restricts the import of high-risk produce—such as tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies—from affected properties in South Australia, where the outbreak was frst detected. Additionally, restrictions will apply to properties linked to the infested sites to prevent the virus from spreading beyond its current containment.

Efforts to Eradicate the Virus

The tomato brown rugose virus has thus far been found in four greenhouses on three South Australian properties. These greenhouses are enclosed, aiding containment efforts and control measures as authorities work to eliminate the virus. The enclosed nature of the greenhouses has been pivotal in preventing further spread of the virus.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is collaborating with industry stakeholders, international experts, and authorities from other states and territories to maintain NSW’s diseasefree status. Extensive surveillance is ongoing, not only in NSW but also in South Australia and other regions, as the country takes measures to halt the virus in its tracks.

Potential Threat to Australia’s Agriculture

ToBRFV, frst discovered internationally in 2014, is notorious for being a highly infectious plant virus. It severely affects crops, causing visible damage to leaves and fruit, which can render produce unmarketable. While the virus does not affect human health or food safety, it can devastate crops, leading to signifcant economic losses for growers.

Symptoms of the virus include mosaic and mottled patterns on leaves, yellowing and deformities, and fruit with brown wrinkled spots, marbling, or uneven ripening. These symptoms, however, are not unique to ToBRFV, and laboratory testing is required to confrm the presence of the virus.

Biosecurity Measures and Industry Vigilance

The NSW Government’s Control Order is part of its broader biosecurity strategy to protect the state’s $115 million tomato, capsicum, and chilli industries.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, underscored the importance of swift action, stating that biosecurity is a top priority for the state government.

“The NSW Control Order is in place to protect our state from the disease and ensure that the industry can continue to trade safely in fresh produce, seedlings, and seeds,” Minister Moriarty said. She added, “We must remain vigilant. If biosecurity issues arise in other states, we need to act swiftly and decisively to protect our industries.”

Minister Moriarty encouraged all growers—both commercial and home gardeners—to remain vigilant and report any suspect plants to the authorities. Early detection will be key in preventing any further spread of the virus. She emphasized that while the virus poses no risk to food safety or human health, it could cause severe damage to crops if not contained.

Growers are urged to inspect their crops for signs of infection, including discoloured or deformed leaves and fruit, and report any concerns to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline at 1800 084 881. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has also made further information available on its website to assist growers in identifying and managing potential outbreaks.

Looking Ahead

Containment of ToBRFV remains a priority for both NSW and South Australia as authorities work to eradicate the virus from Australia. The collaboration between state departments, industry stakeholders, and biosecurity experts is critical to ensuring that this virus does not further impact the nation’s agricultural industries.

In the meantime, ongoing surveillance, coupled with strict import restrictions, will play a pivotal role in protecting the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring the continued production of high-quality produce across NSW.

For more information on the virus and biosecurity measures, growers and industry participants can visit the NSW DPIRD website.

Funeral Notice

Francis (Frank) Gordon Bienke 12/5/43 – 17/9/24

Passed away at home on Tuesday 17th September 2024, surrounded by his loving family a er a long and courageous battle with motor neurone disease and cancer.

Dearly loved husband of the late Kathleen Bienke (née King), Francis was a devoted and cherished father to Lesley, Colin, James, Cameron, Julian, Maryann and Amie. He was an adored Pop to Rowon, Xavier, Zara, Kaelen, Byron, Noah and Soul, and a valued father-in-law to Chris, Steve, Diana and Miracle.

Son of Annie and Frederick Bienke, Francis and the Bienke family were long-time residents of Byron Bay. Francis was the beloved brother of William, Louis, Velma, Jeanette, Rodney, Narelle, Frederick and Ross, and his surviving siblings Jeanette, Rodney and Narelle.

His love for his family and deep connection to both his family, friends and the community will be fondly remembered by all.

An incredibly caring, generous and cheeky spirit, you showed us all how to live, love and laugh without boundaries and will forever be with us.

Francis will now be laid to rest beside the love of his life Kathleen, reunited in spirit. e love they shared was extraordinary, and their legacy will continue to live on through all of us.

Relatives and friends are invited to honour Francis' life; a service will be held on Monday, September 30 at 12 noon at St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church, 6 e Avenue, Alstonville, New South Wales, where we previously honoured Kathleen. All who wish to celebrate his life with us are welcome to attend.

Frank’s service will be livestreamed, please refer to Parkview Funeral Home website for the details later next week.

Funeral Notice

HALL, Ariel Florence Ruth 23.06.1943 – 19/09/2024

Passed away at Lismore Base Hospital. Loving wife of Errol (dec). Special friend of Simione. Sister of Greg (dec), Darcy and Lorna. Sister-in-law of Clarrie (dec), Zena, Lenore (dec) and Margaret. Loved aunt to her nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends of Ariel are invited to attend her funeral service to be held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church at 77 Pearces Creek Road, Alstonville on Wednesday, 2nd October, 2024 commencing at 11:30am followed by burial at the Alstonville Lawn Cemetery.

Loved by his family, Jess, Indi and Grace. Cherished son of Peter (Dec’d) & Helen. Loving Brother of Noel and his family. Will be sadly missed by all his family, friends, loved ones and colleagues.

Aged 45 Years

“Life on Life’s Terms”

Relatives and friends of Greg are invited to attend the Celebration of his Life, to be held at Lennox Head Cultural Centre, 1 Mackney Lane, Lennox Head on Friday 27th September 2024, commencing at 2.00pm. Greg was a great giver to Charity, therefore in lieu of owers, donations are invited to Mary’s Place Ballina, a new initiative operated and funded by Vinnies. A collection box will be provided for this purpose, at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre door.

Greg’s Celebration of Life service can be also viewed via the Livestream link on the Parkview Funeral Home website.