Help stop fruit fly spread this long weekend

The Marshall Liberal Government is urging people travelling over the long weekend to leave their fruit at home as South Australia continues to battle fruit fly.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said with 11 fruit fly outbreaks currently in metropolitan Adelaide and three in the Riverland, it’s now more important than ever for travellers to be aware of the restrictions on the movement of fruit.

“The March long weekend is a great time to

get away and explore our regions but it is crucial everyone plays their part in stopping the spread of fruit fly,” Minister Basham said.

“I am urging everyone, particularly those living in the outbreak areas, to do the right thing and leave their fruit at home this long weekend.

“Fruit flies do not travel far by themselves which means outbreaks only spread when fruit is moved around by humans.

“Earlier in the week another outbreak zone was declared in metropolitan Adelaide which is another reminder we need to be as vigilant as ever in stopping the movement of fruit.

“South Australians have been hugely cooperative as we continue our fruit fly eradication program across the state to protect our $1.3 billion horticulture industry and the tens of thousands of jobs it supports.

“Please continue to support our world-class South Australian food producers but buy any fruit and vegetables that you need once you arrive at your destination.

“South Australia is the only mainland state which is fruit fly free and this gives our growers significant market advantages which is why we need to do everything we can to protect it.

“The Marshall Liberal Government is throwing every available resource at these current outbreaks and biosecurity officers will be targeting motorists carrying illegal fresh produce over the long weekend.

“This includes hundreds of Department of Primary Industries and Regions staff on the ground undertaking baiting and hygiene programs, assisting with the removal of backyard fruit and random roadblocks on our highways.

“If you are unsure if where you live is in an outbreak area please head to www.fruitfly.sa.gov.au where there are clear maps and rules.

“While all available resources are being targeted into both the Riverland and metropolitan Adelaide outbreaks to ensure the eradication of fruit flies, we all have vital roles to play to ensure we see the back of this pest.”

Report suspected fruit fly or get answers to your fruit fly questions by calling the 24-hour hotline 1300 666 010.