08 Jul 2010

NSW has increased its fight to eradicate all symptoms of the recently discovered Myrtle Rust from the NSW Central Coast.

Industry & Investment NSW has been conducting surveillance and implementing control measures that have been successful in limiting the spread of disease, since it was first reported at a Central Coast property in late April.

Director of Plant Biosecurity at Industry & Investment NSW, Dr Satendra Kumar, said the interim response plan developed by NSW and approved by the National Management Group is now in place.

“We have put in place the best possible procedures to stop the spread of this rust, we will now step up our campaign to the next level,” Dr Kumar said.

“The plan will continue suppression of Myrtle Rust (Uredo rangelii) with an aim to eradicate the disease.

“Under the plan, all symptoms of Myrtle Rust and known susceptible host plants will be removed from the single remaining known infected property and a buffer zone around the property will be treated with preventative fungicides.

“The plan also allows for further host testing, so we can determine the potential impact of this pest on native Australian flora.”

Myrtle Rust may potentially be able to infect a range of plants from the family Myrtaceae, and has been found on three Australian species in the field: Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis), Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera), and Willow Myrtle (Agonis flexuosa), with high levels of infestation on Willow Myrtle c.v. Afterdark.

“NSW is now working towards implementation of a quarantine zone to help prevent the spread of Myrtle Rust into the greater part of NSW,” Dr Kumar said.

“Implementation and maintenance of the zone will facilitate market access for growers within the zone and provide future opportunity for negotiation of area freedom in the greater part of NSW."

Several states have placed quarantine restrictions on the import of plants and plant material belonging to the family Myrtaceae and associated equipment.

These restrictions require the inspection and treatment of any stock prior to export. Growers are advised to contact the relevant state quarantine authority for further information before sending stock interstate.

For further information on Myrtle Rust visit: http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/plant/myrtle-rust

Media contact: Lyndall Hilder 6391 3312 or 0409 383 423