Biosecurity Action for a positive fruit fly season

Early action the key to a positive fruit fly season

Implementing Queensland fruit fly control strategies early will give growers the best chance at managing the pest during what is expected to be another challenging season, according to Fruit Fly Murray Valley (FFMV).

Bureau of Meteorology modelling is currently predicting a 50 per cent chance of La Niña forming later in 2022 – approximately double the normal likelihood.

“We have experienced back-to-back La Niña events in 2020-21 and 2021-22 and have seen the impact of the warm humid weather on the populations of Queensland fruit fly in the region,” FFMV regional coordinator Narelle Beattie said.

“Weather conditions during an unusually prolonged autumn this year favoured the expansion of Qfly populations. Fruit fly numbers in our region – on the Victorian and NSW sides of the river – were at their highest for that time of year since the outbreak started in 2011.”

Narelle said conditions forecast for the next three months were conducive to another bad fruit fly season unless early control actions are taken.

“Strong fruit fly populations heading into the colder months can lead to high populations in the Qfly spring peak, which generally occurs in the region in August and September each year,” she said.

“Flies captured during the spring peak are mostly those that emerged as adults in late autumn and survived winter in warm refuges.

“The spring peak is very important as it is the precursor to the rest of the season.”

Narelle said now was the time to focus on area-wide management strategies to hit fruit fly hard at the start of the season, reduce numbers and set the region up for a positive year. “Growers in our region have been facing this issue for a number of years now, and they know what needs to be done to manage fruit fly on their properties,” she said.

“Control strategies need to be applied early and continuously after fruit set, so it’s important to be organised. Have a plan in place, purchase any supplies you need and begin monitoring early.

“Be sure to check your traps are within their use-by date – otherwise they will need recharging or replacing – and are deployed properly. Also make sure your baits and pesticides are within their use-by date and are approved to be used.

“There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach with Qfly control, so speak to an agronomist for specialist advice and help designing a unique control plan for your property.”

Information and resources to help growers control fruit fly is also available at www.fruitflymv.com.au v

Growing quality produce together

Under its new name, Fruit Fly Murray Valley will focus on engaging with local communities to reduce the impact of Queensland fruit fly on horticultural industries and home gardens.

The organisation, formerly known as Greater Sunraysia Pest Free Area, has introduced new branding to reflect a change in focus for the organisation’s purpose and goals.

FFMV regional coordinator Narelle Beattie said the new name and visual identity better represented the community and its objectives.

“Queensland fruit fly is unfortunately established in Victoria and is widely distributed across our region,” Narelle said. “The reality is we needed to shift our focus away from an eradication mindset.

“However, we are capable of living with fruit fly. If everyone is aware of what to do and plays their part, we can keep the pressure low and support our valuable horticulture industries to produce quality fruit and vegetables.

Narelle said the FFMV program, funded by the Victorian Government, engaged with farming and residential communities on the Victorian side of the Murray River – all the way from Mildura to Kerang.

“Our name now reflects the geographical community we work with, and it defines our focus on fruit fly management,” she said.

“This change will help us to ensure the community hears these important messages and empower people to take action to control fruit fly for the benefit of the whole region.” v Fruit Fly Murray Valley www.fruitflymv.com.au E: fruitflymv@mildura.vic.gov.au T: (03) 5022 0327

EXAMPLE OF INTEGRATING QFLY BAIT SPRAYING INTO YOUR PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

INTEGRATION STRATEGY

Growth stage Bud burst Shoot growth Flowering

Berry expansion Veraison Ripening Harvest

Post harvest

Pest

Monitoring

Qfly bait spray Cover sprays

Mites Light brown apple moth Limit late season sprays to avoid MRL breaches

Mealybug Queensland fruit fly Thrips Install traps Monitor