Council calling for tailored fruit fly management for Goulburn Murray Valley

The analysis, commissioned by Council and prepared by internationally recognised fruit fly expert Andrew Jessup, confirms that the Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV) faces high risk from Queensland Fruit Fly and cannot rely on management approaches used in other parts of Australia. The report stated fruit fly management was not a one-size-fits-all scenario, with methods operating in Queensland and New South Wales not suitable when replicated in the GMV.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the findings clearly support Council’s long‑held position that fruit fly management in the GMV must be ongoing and region‑specific.

“Local conditions demand local solutions. This independent report confirms what Council, growers and the community have been saying for years - the Goulburn Murray Valley is unique, and a one‑size‑fits‑all approach simply will not work here,” he said.

“Our region is one of Australia’s most productive horticultural areas. The consequences of under‑resourcing fruit fly management will have a serious impact on jobs, markets and the strength of our regional economy.

“The report provides expert evidence that sustained, locally tailored management is essential. Queensland Fruit Fly poses a significant risk for our region if not managed correctly.”

The report reviewed fruit fly management across Australia, comparing growing regions and examining how climate, geography and population density affect fruit fly risk. The GMV was identified as one of Australia’s most vulnerable horticultural regions, with key risk factors including:

large and dispersed orchards
a close mix of residential areas and fruit production
high proportions of highly susceptible crops
harvest times that coincide with peak fruit fly activity
high levels of freight and through‑traffic

The report warned that without coordinated and properly funded management, fruit fly populations are expected to surge, increasing pressure on growers, home gardeners and the wider regional economy.

The Goulburn Murray Fruit Fly Program incorporates the municipal areas of Greater Shepparton, Moira Shire, Campaspe Shire and Strathbogie Shire Councils. Ahead of the 2025/26 financial year, the partnering Councils, alongside Fruit Growers Victoria and other industry bodies, were advocating for $1 million per annum to roll out a high input area wide management program across the Goulburn Murray Valley.

Council received $469,000 in the 2025/2026 financial year to continue vital efforts in managing Queensland Fruit Fly across the region. The Victorian Government advised they will also provide funding for the 2026/2027 financial year; however, this amount is yet to be confirmed.

Cr Sali said the risk of this funding being further reduced is a significant concern.

“The risk is not only for our region’s horticulture industry; it extends to backyard fruit and vegetable trees which we know there are many of across the region. The impact reaches far beyond our local orchards,” he said.

“The Goulburn Murray Valley’s horticultural output is more than $1.6 billion each year. Without structured management this would be significantly compromised.”

Chair of the GMV Fruit Fly Governance Group and fruit grower, Tony Siciliano, said the report reinforces the need for shared responsibility across towns, backyards and orchards.

“The GMV faces a very different level of risk compared to smaller, less urbanised regions,” he said.