New suspected Panama case at Qld banana farm
A new suspected detection of Panama disease tropical race 4 (TR4) has been found on a fifth banana farm in the Tully Valley, according to the Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC).
Biosecurity Queensland Panama TR4 Program Leader Rhiannon Evans said a surveillance team had spotted a banana plant showing symptoms typical of the disease during a routine property inspection. Preliminary testing has come back positive but further tests will be needed for a conclusive result, which can take up to four weeks.
“The property is close to the other four previously known to have the disease. If it is a positive result, it will only be the fifth property confirmed to be infested with Panama TR4 in Far North Queensland since 2015. This means the disease is spreading very gradually and is still contained within the Tully Valley,” said Evans.
ABGC Chair Stephen Lowe said it’s news no one associated with the industry wanted to hear. “Obviously our thoughts are very much with the grower affected. This is and will be a very challenging time for them and their family as they await further test results,” Lowe said.
“Fortunately the grower was prepared with on-farm biosecurity, making it easier to meet those requirements,” said Evans.
Lowe added that the new suspect detection was another reminder that Panama TR4 is here to stay and encouraged all growers to maintain strong biosecurity practices. “The joint industry–government Panama TR4 Program Management Board recently approved changes to expand the surveillance program.
“We’ll be doing even more checks across Far North Queensland banana production areas, including increased surveillance in the Tully Valley.
“Early detection allows us to quickly destroy infected plants and minimise the build-up of fungal spores in soil.”
Growers can protect their property at the farm gate by restricting access, installing biosecurity signs and having designated access points.
For a fact sheet about the new suspected case, visit abgc.org.au.
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