The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) has joined forces with Wine Tasmania and Biosecurity Tasmania to help keep the state free from a pest that can destroy grape vines.
TIA staff have recently conducted surveys at dozens of vineyards throughout the state, monitoring for the presence of the insect pest, grape phylloxera.
The role complements the Biosecurity Operational Plan which sets out how TIA works with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania to contribute to pest and disease prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
"Thankfully we haven't discovered any evidence of the pest in Tasmania, but we need to remain vigilant for all emerging pests and disease," said Craig Elliott, Biosecurity Engagement Lead with the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture and the TAS Farm Innovation Hub .
Grape phylloxera is a small yellow insect that's only just big enough to be seen with the naked eye. It destroys grape vines by eating the roots.
The insects can crawl along soil, into the canopy or below the ground from root to root. This means that they're easily spread on boots, clothing, equipment, machinery and vehicles.
It's a significant pest world-wide. It's been present in Australia since 1877 but is currently confined to parts of New South Wales and Victoria, where it's under control.
Mr Elliott said survey results were reassuring but vigilance remains essential to prevent the pest from spreading to other regions.
Independent modelling commissioned by Wine Tasmania in 2022/23 valued the Tasmanian wine sector at more than $375 million annually. Combined with its contribution to wine tourism it's placed in the top ten contributors to the state's economy and growing.
"Grape phylloxera is not currently present in Tasmania and it's important to keep it that way. Ongoing surveillance and strong collaboration between growers, researchers and government is important, which is why a survey of vineyards is conducted every five years," Mr Elliott said.
"The insect pest survey assessed pest populations and their potential impact, providing essential data for pest management."
Under the coordinated program, TIA led vineyard inspections and sample collection, with diagnostic testing undertaken by Biosecurity Tasmania and industry coordination by Wine Tasmania.
The initiative aligns with a broader strategy led by TIA and the TAS Farm Innovation Hub to strengthen preparedness, prevention and response capability across the state's agricultural sectors.
In his role as Biosecurity Engagement Lead for TIA and the Hub, Mr Elliott plays an important role in strengthening efforts to safeguard Tasmania's agricultural industries from emerging pests and diseases.
"The survey results demonstrate the value of strong collaboration between research, industry and government. It's great to see how TIA was able to mobilise with staff volunteering to undertake this additional work," Mr Elliott said.
"Keeping Tasmania free from major pests is a shared responsibility. By working closely with growers and government partners, we can identify priorities, build capability through training, research, advice and ensure the state is prepared for current and emerging biosecurity threats."
Wine Tasmania's Viticulture and Winemaking Officer, Paul Smart, said that cooperation is vital to address biosecurity threats.
"The importance of this survey to Tasmania cannot be overstated. As the island's viticultural footprint continues to grow, the stakes for maintaining our phylloxera exclusion zone status have never been higher," Mr Smart said.
"We visited every sub-regional area of Tasmania and completed 41 vineyard surveys, with no suspect grapevine samples taken for further analysis. This is a testament to the exceptional work our viticulturalists are doing to stay ahead of biosecurity risks."
