A new Hort Innovation project announced today aims to strengthen biosecurity outcomes for Australia's cherry and summerfruit industries. The five-year collaboration will focus on enhancing on-farm biosecurity practices, improving preparedness for exotic plant pests and diseases, and supporting recovery planning following any incursions.
The project will include a dedicated biosecurity resource to provide on-the-ground support for growers and help both industries maintain biosecurity best management practices. The role will also serve as the first point of contact for growers, offering guidance in the event of pest incursions and ensuring updates on regulatory changes, incursion protocols, and chemical access.
© Hort Innovation
Additional support will include adapting to changing interstate trade requirements and improving integrated pest and disease management. Growers will have access to new tools for on-farm biosecurity and pest management and receive assistance in demonstrating Australia's biosecurity standards to international markets.
Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation, said, "Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and this investment ensures cherry and summerfruit growers have the dedicated support they need to protect their crops, respond quickly to threats, and maintain access to key markets. It's about building resilience and confidence across the supply chain."
Penny Measham, CEO of Cherry Growers Australia, said, "This is an exciting project where our two industries can proactively manage biosecurity risks together, including those of trade significance, to create a stronger, sustainable future."
Carrie Starkings, CEO of Summerfruit Australia Limited, added, "This is a proud moment as Summerfruit Australia, along with Cherry Growers Australia, welcomes the shared biosecurity role to the industries. This appointment is more than just filling a role, it's about reinforcing our commitment to building a resilient future for the industry, the land, and our people."
The initiative is funded through the cherry and summerfruit research and development levies, with additional contributions from the Australian Government.
© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Shannon O'Mara
Hort Innovation
Tel: +61 (0) 427 142 537
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au
