VegNET Wide Bay Burnett Regional Update

In the ever-evolving world of agriculture, protecting crops from emerging threats is critical to maintaining a healthy and productive farm. One of the most significant challenges facing growers today is the spread of devastating plant diseases, one recent example of this is the detection of tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in a farm in South Australia. This highly contagious virus can wreak havoc on tomato and pepper crops, leading to significant economic losses. Fortunately, adopting robust biosecurity practices can greatly reduce the risk of such diseases impacting your farm.

What is tomato brown rugose fruit virus?

ToBRFV is a Tobamovirus first identified in 2014. It spreads rapidly through infected seeds, plants, tools, and even human contact. Symptoms include leaf mottling, fruit discoloration, and rough, unmarketable surfaces, which make infected produce unsellable. Because there is no cure for the virus, prevention is the most effective strategy to combat its spread. A useful fact sheet is available at Plant Health Australia.

ToBRFV detection in Australia

In August 2024, ToBRFV was detected for the first time in Australia, specifically in the Northern Adelaide Plains of South Australia. This highly contagious virus affects tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies, causing significant crop losses. The South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) responded promptly with quarantine measures to manage the risk of spread. Several Australian states, such as Queensland and Western Australia, implemented movement restrictions on host materials to prevent further spread. This incident highlights the importance of rigorous biosecurity measures to protect agricultural industries from invasive plant viruses.

The role of biosecurity in disease prevention

Biosecurity refers to practices and measures designed to protect agricultural production systems from harmful biological agents, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and pests. For farmers, implementing strong biosecurity measures is a proactive way to minimise the risk of disease outbreaks. Below lists some key practices that can help reduce the likelihood of ToBRFV and other diseases making their way onto your farm:

1. Control farm access
Limit access to your farm to essential personnel. This can be easily adopted through installing biosecurity signage at designated entry and exit points which indicate contact prior to entry. Visitors, contractors, and workers should adhere to strict hygiene protocols, such as wearing clean clothes and disinfected footwear. Designated entry and exit points with sanitation stations can help control movement and reduce contamination risks.

2. Sanitise tools and equipment
Shared tools, machinery, and equipment can act as vectors for disease transmission. Regularly clean and disinfect these items, especially when moving them between farms or production areas. Use approved disinfectants known to be effective against ToBRFV and follow manufacturer guidelines for application.

3. Monitor seed and plant health
Sourcing certified disease-free seeds and transplants is a critical first step in biosecurity. Conduct routine crop inspections and keep detailed records of plant health. If an outbreak is suspected, report it to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. Prompt action can prevent further spread and protect neighbouring farms.

4. Implement worker training
Educate farm workers on the importance of biosecurity and train them to identify early symptoms of diseases like ToBRFV. Workers should wash their hands frequently, wear gloves when handling plants, and avoid working with plants if they’ve recently visited another farm without disinfecting boots, clothing and tools.

5. Establish cleaning and waste disposal protocols
Regularly clean greenhouses, storage areas, and packing facilities to remove potential contamination sources. Dispose of plant waste, debris, and infected material away from production areas, following local regulations for agricultural waste management.

The benefits of proactive measures

While implementing these measures requires effort and investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Effective biosecurity reduces the risk of crop losses, maintains market access, and safeguards your farm. Moreover, it contributes to the broader agricultural community by preventing the regional or global spread of plant diseases.

Leveraging technology: the Onside app

Modern technology offers innovative solutions for biosecurity management. The Onside app is a powerful tool that allows farmers to track biosecurity practices across their operations. With features like digital check-ins, farm mapping, and activity logs, it simplifies record-keeping and ensures compliance with biosecurity protocols. By providing real-time visibility
of farm activities and potential risks, the Onside app helps farmers take timely, informed actions to protect their crops. Vegetable growers can access this free tool for biosecurity.

FIND OUT MORE
Please contact Jessy Logan, on 0407 366 797 or email vegnet@bfvg.com.au