Emu

Keep your garden fruit fly free

Friday 20 December, 2019
There are some easy steps for backyard fruit growers to follow to reduce the chance of destruction by Queensland fruit fly says Goulburn Broken CMA Regional Agriculture Landcare Facilitator Kerstie Lee.

“If you are like me and want to grow your own summer fruit, fruit fly is another pest that we must manage as it is important that all backyard fruit growers are aware of the impact this may have on the horticultural industries,” Ms Lee said.

“Agriculture Victoria has estimated that fruit flies cost fruit producers at least $300 million a year across Australia. With viticulture and horticulture industries present and productive throughout the Goulburn Broken region, it is vitally important we work together to address and manage the risk of fruit fly infestation, especially in our own gardens.”

Queensland fruit fly burrow in the soil to survive cold winters then emerge as adults when the temperature increases. The female feeds on a source of protein before she lays her eggs in host fruit. Baiting the female early in the season reduces the opportunity for her to lay eggs and therefore increases the chance of a fruit fly-free crop of fruit. Further baiting can be done later in the season, but the eggs may already be laid.

For more information on the Queensland fruit fly lifecycle and treatment you can visit  agriculture.vic.gov.au/qff or if you would like a workshop in your local area, please contact Kerstie Lee at kerstiel@gbcma.vic.gov.au.

The Regional Agriculture Landcare Facilitator is supported by the Goulburn Broken CMA through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

The Goulburn Broken CMA acknowledges and respects First Nations people and the deep connection they have with their land and waters.


We acknowledge the Yorta Yorta and Taungurung people and their ancestors/forbears as Traditional Owners of the land and waters in the Goulburn Broken Catchment (and beyond). We value our ongoing partnerships with Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation and Taungurung Land and Waters Council for the health of Country and its people.


We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and acknowledge and recognise the primacy of Traditional Owners obligations, rights and responsibilities to use and care for their traditional lands and waters.

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