New biosecurity leadership collaboration to protect cherry and summerfruit growers

Stronger biosecurity outcomes for the cherry and summerfruit industries are planned through a new Hort Innovation project announced today. The collaboration between the two industries is set to enhance on-farm biosecurity practices, improve preparedness for exotic plant pests and diseases, and strengthen recovery planning following an incursion. 

The five-year project will see a dedicated biosecurity resource to provide practical on-the-ground support for growers and support the cherry and summerfruit industries in upholding biosecurity best management practices.  

The role will also offer industry-specific guidance in the event of any pest incursions and become the first point of contact for growers to help keep growers abreast of any regulatory changes, incursion protocols, and chemical access. 

Additional support will include adapting to changing interstate trade requirements and elevating integrated pest and disease management techniques. Growers will benefit from increased awareness of the latest tools for on-farm biosecurity practices and pest management and support in demonstrating Australia’s best practice biosecurity to international trading partners. 

Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation, explained what this means for the industry: “Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and this investment ensures cherry and summerfruit growers have the dedicated support they need to protect their crops, respond quickly to threats, and maintain access to key markets. It’s about building resilience and confidence across the supply chain.” 

Penny Measham, CEO of Cherry Growers Australia, said: “This is an exciting project where our two industries can proactively manage biosecurity risks together, including those of trade significance, to create a stronger, sustainable future.”    

Carrie Starkings, CEO of Summerfruit Australia Limited, added:  This is a proud moment as Summerfruit Australia, along with Cherry Growers Australia, welcomes the shared biosecurity role to the industries.   This appointment is more than just filling a role, it’s about reinforcing our commitment to building a resilient future for the industry, the land, and our people.  

This initiative is funded through the cherry and summerfruit research and development levies and contributions from the Australian Government.