The latest information on grain biosecurity, pest surveillance and mobile application technology to support the agribusinesses will be on offer at Mingenew Expo.
Visitors are invited to the Department of Agriculture and Food display at the Innovation Hub during the two-day event.
Western Australia’s Grains Biosecurity Officer Jeff Russell said grain growers could collect a farm biosecurity sign and discuss ways to protect their properties from unwanted pests and diseases.
“Signage is a simple way to boost biosecurity awareness on growers’ properties,” Mr Russell said. “Farm biosecurity signs let visitors know that their actions could possibly put production at the property at risk if they unintentionally bring in weed seeds or other pests and diseases.”
The signs, placed at farm entry points, direct visitors to contact the property owner first before travelling onto and around the property. Combined with a dedicated visitor parking area, the signs can be an effective risk management practice.
Mr Russell said grain producers should be using biosecurity signs as a matter of course to reduce risks.
Information sheets on Russian Wheat Aphid, which was recently detected in South Australia and Victoria, will also be on hand for growers and the public.
Visitors will be able to collect a free Pantry Trap and participate in Pantry Blitz - a hands-on activity aimed at improving community engagement in biosecurity.
Participants can place their free trap in their pantry, or any other area of their house where there may be pests, for one month. The trap contains an attractant that lures insects, and participants are encouraged to regularly check the trap and use the department’s free MyPestGuide Reporter app to report any trapped insects.
Development officer Laura Fagan said all reports helped to safeguard Western Australia’s biosecurity status and support access to international markets.
“People who send in MyPestGuide Reporter reports receive a response from the department to help them manage the pest and at the same time the department captures information to help verify WA is free from certain exotic pests,” Ms Fagan said.
The department’s eConnected Grainbelt online decision tools will be available, which include live, up to date information by linking to weather stations recently installed in conjunction with grower groups.
Project manager Tim Maling said eConnected provided technology for grain growers with information and decision-making tools to manage risks and boost productivity.
The department will be sharing site 900 with the Mingenew Irwin Group located in the Expo’s Innovation Hub, on 10-11 August.
Additional information
- The Pantry Blitz is an Australian Government Inspiring Australia National Science Week activity and part of the Department of Agriculture and Food's Boosting Biosecurity Defences project, made possible by Royalties for Regions.
- The department’s eConnected Grainbelt project is also made possible by Royalties for Regions funding. It provides online information to help WA’s agricultural sector remain internationally competitive.
Media contacts: Jodie Thomson, media liaison officer +61 (0)8 9368 3937