One Queensland citrus grower and distributor hopes that the $20.5m promised by Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA) and Macquarie University will kickstart a round of funding across the nation to combat the notorious Queensland Fruit Fly pest, and help open up export markets. “I think it’s outstanding, and a generous start, but there needs to be a whole nationwide approach too,” says Chris Deveney, Business Manager and Director of Favco.
Growers and exporters will also need to have patience, but as a grower the results will be worth it, according to Mr Deveney. He estimates it could take up to two years for the ‘SIT’ or Sterile Insect Technique that will be used in orchards to be effective. “It takes time to breed fruitfly out using SIT, but it does work in my opinion.” The next step will be having export partners reassess and audit grower orchards, and processes, and sign off on a new set of protocols.
The key export markets for Australian citrus are the US, Japan, and China, according to Mr Deveney, so those countries will be targeted to come to Australia and examine orchards first. Harsh cold treatments used to kill fruitfly on exports at present should no longer be necessary once SIT becomes effective, and fruit will be in better condition when shipped overseas. “That will be a big advantage for exporters,” he says.
Another major benefit will be the fact that new markets will be opened up for Australian citrus, and Australia will be closer to achieving fruitfly free status. Fruitfly free status is important for key citrus growing states, including Qld, NSW, Victoria and South Australia, according to Mr Deveney.
For more information:
Chris Deveney, Director and Business Manager
Favco
Phone: +61 7 3717 1512
E-mail: chrisd@favcoqld.com.au
Website: www.favcoqld.com.au