Greater Shepparton City Council is calling for continued, locally tailored fruit fly management in the Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV), following the release of a new independent report.
The analysis, commissioned by Council and prepared by internationally recognised fruit fly expert Andrew Jessup, confirms that the GMV faces high risk from Queensland Fruit Fly (QFly) and cannot rely on management approaches used in other parts of Australia.
The report stated that QFly management was not a one-size-fits-all scenario, with methods operating in Queensland and New South Wales unsuitable 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 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 must 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 activities
• High levels of freight and through-traffic.
The report warned that without coordinated and properly funded management, QFly populations are expected to surge, increasing pressure on growers, home gardeners and the wider regional economy.
The GMV 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 $1M per annum to roll out a high input area wide management program across the GMV.
Council received $469,000 in the 2025/26 financial year to continue vital efforts in managing QFly. The Victorian Government had advised that they will provide funding for the 2026/27 financial year, however, the 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 across the region.
“The Goulburn Murray Valley’s horticultural output is more than $1.6 billion each year. Without structured management this would be significantly compromised.
“Fruit fly doesn’t stop at farm boundaries. Without a coordinated approach, the burden on individual growers becomes unsustainable.”
Council continues to advocate to ensure that the important work of the program and the ongoing community education can continue.
To access the independent analysis, go to https://shepp.city/qffstrat
