There have been no new fruit fly detections in Tasmania since mid February and eradication, surveillance and risk management activities are continuing.
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Control areas in the state’s North West, North and Flinders Island also remain unchanged.
Roadside bins have been placed on major routes within the Northern Tasmania control area so drivers can dispose of produce before leaving the zone and these bins are regularly cleared.
A Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment department spokesperson said staff would continue with eradication, treatment, surveillance and waste and risk management activities.
“Our key aim is to eradicate fruit fly from Tasmania, determine the extent of the fruit fly infestation and determine the likely source of fruit fly detections,” the spokesperson said.
“Movement controls remain in place for control areas as biosecurity staff continue to liaise with growers, wholesalers, retailers, transporters, industry and the wider community, and provide ongoing public information.”
Tasmania cannot be declared fruit fly free again until 12 weeks after the last detection of fruit flies and larvae.
“Reinstatement of pest free status for the control areas within Tasmania requires a rigorous process to demonstrate the absence of fruit fly, not just the passing of 12 weeks,” the spokesperson said.
“The eradication response will remain in place until the reinstatement of pest free status for the control areas within Tasmania.”
Contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 6165 3774 to report suspected fruit fly or visit dpipwe.tas.gov.au/fruitfly for more information.