The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is working to prevent the spread of Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) after the pest was detected in Bayswater.
Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer at the DPIRD, Sonya Broughton said Qfly specimens were detected in surveillance traps, as part of the Department’s early warning biosecurity system.
“Qfly is a serious horticulture pest, and with more than 300 species of fruit and vegetables that can host it, could impact a range of horticulture industries and home-grown fruit and vegetables,” Dr Broughton said.
“Our staff are trapping, inspecting and baiting host plants on street trees and verges near the Qfly detection. The surveillance program is proving to be an effective means of early detection.”
She said DPIRD staff had experience in responding effectively to Qfly detections, having eradicated incursions from Perth eight times since the 1980s.
“I ask residents and businesses to support the response efforts and report suspect Qfly sightings to the Department,” Dr Broughton said.
“It is also important that DPIRD officers can access private premises with host trees and plants to conduct trapping, inspections and baiting.”
She said residents would be receiving a card in their letterboxes asking that they contact the Department to discuss appropriate access to carry out these activities.
“The community plays an important role in the biosecurity response, reporting suspect sightings to aid the Department’s surveillance program,” the officer said.
A full list of host fruit and vegetables and more Qfly advice is available at this PS News link.
