Please note: this is an old article
It was published in June 2017, so the information may be out-of-date.
The Andrews Labor Government has funded the appointment of a Fruit Fly Regional Coordinator in the Goulburn Murray Valley to help manage this dangerous pest and protect one of Victoria’s most significant horticultural regions.
While many methods are used to control fruit fly, the critical factor is people working together and the role of the Regional Coordinator is crucial for ensuring industry, community and government cooperate to effectively manage fruit fly.
Ross Abberfield has been employed by the Moira Shire Council in Cobram to work directly with the Goulburn Murray Fruit Fly Regional Governance Group which includes representation from major horticultural producers, local and state government, and community members from the area.
The appointment of Ross is part of a $6.7 million Managing Fruit Fly – Regional Grants Program to provide a coordinated and collaborative approach to fruit fly management across Victoria.
Ross has lived and worked in the region for over 25 years and looks forward to using his knowledge of the area to bring life to the role.
He has extensive experience in project management at federal, state and local levels and has a strong background in training and development.
“Having grown up and worked in the Goulburn Murray Valley, I fully appreciate the ramifications that fruit fly can have on our fruit and vegetable growers and the community” Mr Abberfield said.
“It is my intention to unite our fruit and vegetable industry groups, government agencies and all facets of our community to monitor and subsequently control this pest which has the capacity to severely impact our economy.”
Over the next 12 months Ross will be responsible for implementing a number of fruit fly activities from the Goulburn Murray Regional Action Plan, including a fruit fly monitoring program, managing hot spots where large numbers of fruit fly have been located, communicating good hygiene strategies to land owners, managing tree removal activities and coordinating community education and awareness raising activities.
“The Goulburn Murray Valley has a hard earned reputation for growing Australia’s best produce, I am confident that as a united regional community we can control fruit fly and continue to enjoy the fruits of our labour.” Said Mr Abberfield
Ross Abberfield can be contacted at rabberfield@moira.vic.gov.au for more information.