Greater Shepparton City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Queensland Fruit Fly management across the Goulburn Murray Valley following a regional forum held in Shepparton on Wednesday evening.
The Strengthening Fruit Fly Management Across the Goulburn Murray Valley forum brought together industry leaders, researchers, growers, community members and government representatives to discuss current challenges, explore future opportunities and identify practical actions to protect one of Australia’s most significant horticultural regions.
The forum featured presentations from internationally recognised fruit fly expert Andrew Jessup, leading pest management researcher and Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) expert Professor Phil Taylor, Grower Services Manager at Fruit Growers Victoria Michael Crisera, and President of Cobram & District Fruit Growers Association (CDFGA) Adrian Conti, followed by a panel discussion and question-and-answer session.
Mayor, Councillor Geoff Akers said the strong attendance and engagement highlighted the importance of coordinated action to address one of the region’s biggest issues.
“Queensland Fruit Fly continues to be a major challenge for growers, which impacts production, market access and our region’s economy,” he said.
“Last night’s forum demonstrated there is strong support across industry, community and government for a collaborative approach that delivers both immediate action and long-term solutions.”
Council also used the forum to highlight and support the three advocacy priorities identified by the horticultural industry and the GMV Fruit Fly Governance Group:
- Restoring long-term investment in a high-input Area Wide Management program across the GMV region.
- Investigating future SIT opportunities through a feasibility study and business case.
- Undertaking an independent economic impact analysis to better understand the cost of Queensland Fruit Fly on growers, market access and regional economies within the GMV and Victoria.
These priorities aim to strengthen short and long-term fruit fly management outcomes, support Victoria’s horticultural industry and improve future biosecurity decision-making.
Cr Akers said protecting the region’s horticultural sector required ongoing commitment and partnership.
“This region is well recognised for our horticultural and food production industries, and it is essential we continue advocating for the investment needed to effectively manage Queensland Fruit Fly,” he said.
“Council will continue working alongside industry, government and community stakeholders to support practical, evidence-based solutions that protect jobs, businesses and the future of horticulture in our region.”
