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EDITION 2026/5
Message from the CEO
Welcome to the May edition of Tendrils. This month, I reflect on the importance of coordination and collaboration in strengthening Australia’s biosecurity system, with key insights from our recent Board and Member meetings. I also share updates on emerging biosecurity risks, national activity and engagement, and highlight progress across the system.
GrainShield tests biosecurity preparedness in the north
The first GrainShield simulation exercise was held in Kununurra, bringing together government, industry and growers to test biosecurity response capability in a remote northern production system and strengthen preparedness for future plant pest incursions.
National surveillance protecting Australia’s bees
World Bee Day 2026 highlighted the importance of national surveillance in protecting Australia’s honey bees. Ongoing efforts through the National Bee Pest Surveillance Program support early detection of exotic pests, helping safeguard pollination, agricultural production and the environments bees sustain.
Digital systems supporting national biosecurity
PHA has released new annual summary reports for three nationally significant digital biosecurity platforms, highlighting how AUSPestCheck®, APPD and PaDIL continue to support surveillance, diagnosis and decision making across Australia’s biosecurity system.
Industry Liaison Officer training boosts Mildura preparedness
PHA delivered the first Industry Liaison Officer (ILO) Training for 2026 in Mildura, bringing together industry and government representatives to strengthen preparedness for plant biosecurity responses and build stronger connections ahead of future emergencies.
Upcoming change to Biosecurity Online Training
PHA is moving Biosecurity Online Training (BOLT) courses to a new platform from Wednesday 1 July 2026. The change will deliver improved functionality and flexibility for users. Those with existing training records should complete courses and download certificates before 30 June.
National Biosecurity Strategy report released
The inaugural National Biosecurity Strategy Annual Report shows strong progress on national priorities, with most actions underway or completed to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system.
Consultation now open on national biosecurity reform
Stakeholders are invited to have their say on proposed national biosecurity reforms, with feedback helping shape a future roadmap to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system.
The pest no one saw coming: Indian cotton jassid
A new CottonInfo podcast shares lessons from the rapid spread of Indian cotton jassid in the United States, highlighting the importance of early detection, regular monitoring and fast pest response.
Root knot nematodes in the NT
Surveys are underway across the Northern Territory to better understand root-knot nematode distribution, with farm hygiene highlighted as a key way to prevent spread.
Updated plant biosecurity manual
Biosecurity Tasmania has published the 2026 Plant Biosecurity Manual, updating key regulatory changes for plants, plant products and horticultural material.
Feedback on Forests Australia website
Users are invited to share feedback through a short survey to help improve access to national forest data, information and reports on the Forests Australia website.
New CEO for Macadamia Society
The Australian Macadamia Society has appointed Ben Baldwin as Chief Executive Officer, bringing extensive experience in agricultural research, industry development and programs to support the sector.
Greenlife working group meets
Bunnings and Greenlife Industry Australia have held their first Greenlife Working Group meeting, focused on collaboration and shared priorities to support a sustainable future for the greenlife sector.
Avocados Australia appoints new CEO
Avocados Australia has announced Milton Bazley as its incoming Chief Executive Officer, with a planned leadership transition and a strong focus on trade, markets and industry collaboration.
Latest from Prevent Fruit Fly
Insights shaping the next fruit fly strategy
In a recent interview with ABC radio, Stephen Quarrell, National Fruit Fly Council Manager, shares insights on priorities for the next National Fruit Fly Strategy, including investment decisions, emerging tools and the importance of protecting market access. The discussion comes as work begins on shaping the next decade of fruit fly management.
Latest from Grains Farm Biosecurity
Early season signals matter in grains
Early crop monitoring during May and June plays a critical role in detecting pests, diseases and unusual issues before they escalate. Early observation and correct identification help protect yields, management options and longer‑term biosecurity outcomes for grain growers.
Updated factsheet on high priority pests
An updated factsheet providing current information on exotic pests and diseases identified as high priority pest threats to Australia’s grains industry is now available. Understanding these risks supports early detection, reporting and preparedness to help protect grain production, market access and business continuity.
Latest from Farm Biosecurity
Know what’s normal to spot problems early
Many pests and diseases are first noticed during everyday work on farm. Knowing what is normal for your crops, property and region makes it easier to spot early warning signs. This article looks at how regular monitoring, simple records and local conversations support early detection and biosecurity.
Farm Biosecurity Producer of the Year Award nominations open
As part of the 2026 Australian Biosecurity Awards, nominations are now open for the Farm Biosecurity Producer of the Year Award. Jointly presented by the Farm Biosecurity Program, Plant Health Australia and Animal Health Australia, the award recognises producers and growers demonstrating on-farm biosecurity practices and leadership.
Out and about
PHA’s CEO Sarah Corcoran, opened the May Member meetings in Adelaide, bringing together Government, Industry and Associate Members.
PHA’s Dr Rachel Mann, National Manager, Response, leading discussions on the EPPRD during PHA’s May Member meetings in Adelaide.
PHA’s Harsh Garg, A/Manager, EPPRD (Operational), led discussions at the Annual Debriefing Forum during the May Member meetings in Adelaide.
PHA’s Chair, Doug Phillips, with CEO, Sarah Corcoran, and Grain Producers Australia (GPA) Chair Barry Large and incoming CEO Duncan Bremner at the May Member meetings.
PHA’s Dr Lucy Tran‑Nguyen, General Manager, Resilience and Innovation, opened the EPPRD Review Workshop during PHA’s May Member meetings in Adelaide.
PHA’s CEO, Sarah Corcoran, with Dr Lucy Tran‑Nguyen, General Manager, Resilience and Innovation, with representatives from Grain Producers South Australia John Gladigau and Brad Perry during a visit to PHA’s Canberra office.
PHA’s Stephanie van der Merwe, Manager, Digital Systems, showcased AUSPestCheck® at the 2026 Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI) Symposium in Melbourne.
PHA’s Stuart Kearns, National Manager, Preparedness and RD&E, with Barry Large, Chair, and CEO, Duncan Bremner, from Grain Producers Australia (GPA) during a visit to PHA’s Canberra office.
