Biosecurity alert – Queensland fruit fly detection in Fremantle

Biosecurity alert – Queensland fruit fly detection in Fremantle

The Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) is not normally found in WA, but has recently been detected in the Fremantle area.

Qfly is a destructive fruit pest which attacks a wide range of fruits and some fruiting vegetables.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development have warned that anyone living in Fremantle, East Fremantle, North Fremantle and White Gum Valley may be in a Quarantine Area. Subsequently, anyone who grows their own fruit and vegetables in this area must keep their produce to themselves until further notice.

A Quarantine Area Notice (QAN) was published in the West Australian on Saturday 3 February 2018 and in the Fremantle/Cockburn Gazette on Tuesday 6 February 2018. It will also appear in the Fremantle/Cockburn Herald on Saturday 10 February 2018. It applies to all of Fremantle, and parts of East Fremantle, North Fremantle and White Gum Valley.

The Quarantine Area Notice (QAN) instructs the following:

  • Non-commercial and home-grown fruit must not be taken out of the Quarantine Area unless it has been cooked or processed, or approved by the DPIRD Director General;
  • Ensure any ripening fruit or vegetables on host plants, or any fruit that has fallen to the ground is removed and disposed of every three days;
  • The fruit can be disposed of by eating, cooking (boil or microwave), freezing or securing in a sealed heavy duty black plastic bag which is placed in direct sunlight for a period of three days. This should kill any flies or larvae before disposing of in regular bins;
  • Do not place untreated fruit or vegetables into compost; and
  • Do not give your fruit and vegetables away.

Under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Regulations 2013, failure to comply with movement restrictions can result in fines. We are appealing to residents to do the right thing in supporting WA’s horticultural industries.

The QAN will remain in place until 18 April 2018. It may be extended if any further flies are detected. Residents in the Quarantine Area will be notified when the response program concludes.

Click here for a map of the Quarantine Area and here for more information.

(Photograph of the Qfly supplied by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development)