COMMUNITY NEWS 

& SPORT

If you are experiencing any problems with Fruit Fly we have some information packs available at the office, they contain some very helpful information in relation to managing fruit fly and who can help if you need trees removed safely.

If left unmanaged the effects of QFF can be devastating. An outbreak has the potential to damage our fruit and vegetable markets and is considered a major risk to Victoria’s multi-billion dollar horticulture industry.

We all have a role to play in the control of QFF, with community awareness and increased knowledge about integrated management measures imperative in protecting the region.

The community should Pick, Prune, Protect  to do their bit to combat the spread of this pest. The Pick, Prune, Protect message reminds people to pick ripe fruit and collect fallen fruit,  keep trees pruned to a manageable height and take measures to protect fruit through the use of netting, traps and baiting or cover spray.

Other prevention and control measures include the free Urban Tree Removal Program available in the Shires of Campaspe, Greater Shepparton, Moira and Strathbogie during July, August and September and October. This program was extended until the end of November in 2017 due to increased demand.

The Rogue Tree Register allows members of the public to report fruit trees on public land and roadsides and assists authorities to identify and remove breeding grounds for QFF. The register is available in the Shires of Campaspe, Greater Shepparton, Moira and Strathbogie. You can ask your local Council for advice on how to report rogue trees that you are aware of.