The first spotting of Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) in the Yarra Ranges has led to the urging of residents to be on the lookout to help prevent and eradicate the known pest.
Lilydale experienced the first detection for the region in mid-January.
Containment and eradication treatments were then put in place by private landowners, and Yarra Ranges Council has been working with Agribusiness Yarra Valley to notify nearby owners when QFF is detected and work on containment measures.
QFF has been detected in the Yarra Valley several times since February 2018.
The QFF is active in fruiting season, though populations increase in spring when temperatures rise above 16 degrees. They can remain active in autumn and winter in warmer weather.
Council and Agribusiness Yarra Valley will work with the landowners to contain and eradicate any QFF.
