Australian biosecurity has been bolstered through the opening of a new Post Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility, which is also set to promote the importation of new fresh produce varieties.
The centre will consolidate all PEQ operations into a single site at Mickleham, in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
Tim Herrmann, manager of the Australian citrus industry’s high health seed and budwood supplier Auscitrus, described the new facility as a world leading practice, adding that it would remain a vital tool in protecting the fresh produce sector from foreign pests and disease.
“The post-entry quarantine system is an integral part of Australia’s biosecurity,” Herrmann explained. “Australia has made biosecurity a high priority for decades, and this is one reason we are as productive as we are.
“It’s important for all people in the industry to continue to take biosecurity seriously. The improvements at the new PEQ station should streamline the process and make importation more efficient. ”
The first intakes of new citrus varieties will occur from 1 December. Auscitrus will be involved in importing new public-domain citrus varieties, and will also work closely with companies who import patented citrus varieties in an attempt to bring them to market.
