AFTER several outbreaks of fruit fly in exclusion zones, travellers are being urged to leave their fruit at home over the holidays.
The Tri-State Fruit Fly Committee said it was important travellers didn't make the problem worse.Committee spokesman Hugh Flett said warmer weather over the holiday break would provide favourable conditions for fruit fly.
"It's important to note that despite there being several outbreaks in the zone, the rules that restrict the transport of fresh fruit and vegetables still apply,'' Mr Flett said.
"These rules are in place to prevent the spread of fruit fly into major fruit growing regions.
"Random roadblocks operate throughout the zone during the holidays to enforce these rules, and heavy fines can apply to people caught breaching the restrictions.''
He said infested fruit often looked perfectly sound on the outside, but could be infested on the inside.
"Only when fruit is opened can an infestation be detected,'' Mr Flett said.
"The only safe way to ensure you're not letting fruit fly hitch a ride with you is to leave your fruit at home and buy some when you arrive at your destination.
"A big fine is no way to start your holidays.''
Mr Flett said communities within the zone also had a role to play these holidays.
"If local residents have backyard fruit trees they should take care to clean up any fruit lying on the ground,'' he said.
"If they're expecting visitors these holidays, its a good idea to let them know about the restrictions.''
For more information visit fruitfly.net.au.
