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The first South Australian-based testing laboratory for tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) has commenced.
The lab, located at the Waite campus of the University of Adelaide, is described by the state government as a “significant next step in the ongoing response to this highly contagious plant disease”.
With this managed by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) at its molecular diagnostic centre, samples will no longer need to go interstate to be tested.
“A lot of hard work has been undertaken to get the SARDI testing facility accredited and up and running to test for ToBRV,” says SA Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven.
“This is a very welcome development in our ongoing response to the virus that if left unchecked could have massive consequences to our tomato, capsicum, and chilli industries.”
Being able to test for ToBRFV at SARDI will further support growers seeking to meet the confirmed Western Australian certification protocols, allowing the continuation of trade from South Australian businesses who have tested negative for the virus. To enable market access, the South Australian government will absorb the costs of any required sampling and testing that producers may need to undertake as part of this certification process.
The state government is continuing to confirm with Queensland the testing requirements that growers may need to undertake to access their market. It’s hoped the process for accessing Queensland will be confirmed shortly.
Most growers in SA who are ToBRFV free or not linked to infected properties have been able to export their produce to all states and territories without further restriction, apart from WA and Queensland.
The South Australian government remains confident that it has determined the extent of the virus, with only three properties found to be infected. However, surveillance and tracing will continue.
Ms Scriven notes that the virus, “while potentially devastating for growers”, has no impact on human health.
“South Australian tomatoes are perfectly safe to eat, and I encourage everyone to support your local growers and continue to buy their produce,” she says.