The fruit fly lesson from Cobram shouldn't be ignored

For years, growers and residents have experienced first-hand the challenges fruit fly creates for commercial production, market access and backyard fruit trees alike.

Just as importantly, Cobram has shown what can be achieved when proven management tools are applied to the problem.

The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) trial undertaken in Cobram delivered impressive results, reducing fruit fly populations by more than 80 per cent and demonstrating the important role SIT can play when integrated with broader fruit fly management programs such as Area Wide Management.

That matters because Queensland Fruit Fly remains one of the most significant biosecurity threats facing Victoria's horticulture industry.

Few regions have as much to lose as the Goulburn-Murray Valley (GMV).

Our growers help feed Australian families and supply markets around the world.

The region's horticultural industry contributes more than $1 billion annually and agriculture supports almost 10,000 jobs across the GMV, before accounting for the thousands more employed in food processing, transport, packaging and logistics.

What makes the Cobram experience so important is that it provides something often missing from public policy debates: evidence.

The lesson from Cobram is not that Queensland Fruit Fly can be eliminated overnight.

The lesson is that investment in proven solutions delivers results.

Too often, discussions about biosecurity focus on the cost of action.

Cobram reminds us to consider the cost of doing nothing.

That is why industry is advocating for further investigation into a Victorian Sterile Insect Technique facility as part of a long-term approach to fruit fly management.

Combined with effective Area Wide Management, SIT has the potential to strengthen biosecurity, support market access and help protect one of Victoria's most valuable horticultural regions.

This is not about chasing an untested idea.

It is about building on success that has already been demonstrated in our own region.

We know the challenge Queensland Fruit Fly presents.

Thanks to Cobram, we also know that innovative solutions can make a real difference.

The lesson from Cobram shouldn't be ignored.