EDITION 2026/4

Message from the CEO

Welcome to the April edition of Tendrils. This month, I reflect on PHA entering its 26th year and the strength of the partnerships that underpin Australia’s plant biosecurity system. I also encourage Members to provide feedback on the draft 2026–27 Annual Operational Plan, share reminders on managing biosecurity risks associated with travel and hitchhiker pests, and highlight the importance of strong governance, data and international collaboration in protecting plant health.

Upcoming meetings

Board meeting (BM123) in Adelaide on Tuesday 19 May 2026.
Member meetings in Adelaide 20-22 May 2026.

25 years strengthening Australia’s plant biosecurity

Marking the conclusion of its 25th year, PHA reflects on a quarter century of national coordination and partnership. We highlight how collaboration, preparedness and shared responsibility have strengthened Australia’s plant biosecurity system and continue to underpin resilience into the future.

Building avocado biosecurity capability in 2026

PHA is working with Avocados Australia to deliver updated biosecurity resources and learning opportunities in 2026. New factsheets, industry liaison training and preparedness webinars will support the avocado industry to strengthen awareness, coordination and response capability.

Forest Watch Australia: protecting forest biosecurity

March marked a busy period for the Forest Watch Australia program, with key awareness events and national engagement. Coordinated by PHA, the program continues to strengthen post‑border surveillance, build capability and support early detection of exotic forest pests and diseases across Australia.

New version of the EPPRD available

A new version of the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) is now available. The update includes minor amendments to Contacts for Notices for several signatory organisations. Parties are encouraged to review the updated Deed and confirm their contact details remain current.

Updated protocol strengthens Xylella diagnostics

The National Diagnostic Protocol 6 for Xylella species has been endorsed and published, supporting consistent, accurate identification of this high‑priority plant pest across Australia.

Grapevine virus detected in South Australia

Grapevine berry inner necrosis virus has been confirmed in South Australian table grapes for the first time, with the Department of Primary Industries and Regions and Vinehealth Australia supporting growers to manage risks.

Disaster assistance available for Queensland producers

Primary producers and commercial fishers affected by recent severe weather in Queensland may be eligible for grants, loans and freight subsidies under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Rural Women’s Award finalists announced

Finalists for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award have been announced, recognising outstanding women driving innovation, leadership and positive change across rural and regional Australia.

Seed Business 2026 registrations open

Seed Business 2026 will bring Australia’s seed industry together in Melbourne from 18–20 August for three days of connection, learning and industry leadership, including networking events and a Women in Seed Lunch.

New project targets ryegrass resistance

A new Hort Innovation‑funded project will tackle herbicide‑resistant ryegrass in onion and vegetable crops, using long‑term demonstrations and practical tools to support sustainable weed management.

Wine Growth Summit returns to Adelaide June 2026

The Wine Communicators of Australia Wine Growth Summit brings wine businesses together in Adelaide this June to share practical growth strategies, export insights and commercial lessons from across the sector.

Victoria’s Biosecurity Roundtable focuses on collaboration

Victoria’s Biosecurity Roundtable returns in May 2026, bringing industry, community and government together to explore how collaboration and innovation can maximise impact across the biosecurity system.

PSHB workshops strengthen national response

Industry, government and international experts met in March to progress Australia’s transition to management for polyphagous shot‑hole borer (PSHB), sharing global lessons to strengthen national capability.

Tasmanian berry development role open

Fruit Growers Tasmania is seeking a Berry Industry Development Officer to deliver R&D extension and industry support, helping grow capability and productivity across Tasmania’s berry sector.

Qld producers invited to share views

Queensland producers are invited to complete a short, confidential online survey to support market research and help inform future policy, programs and industry planning.

AADI tool showcased at Outlook 2026

ABARES and CSIRO unveiled a new online drought forecasting tool at Outlook 2026, giving farmers early insights to support seasonal decision‑making and climate risk planning.

Latest from Prevent Fruit Fly

Who’s who in fruit fly: meet Tim Grieger

With decades of leadership across industry organisations, local government and commercial fruit production, Tim Grieger brings a strong practical and governance perspective to the National Fruit Fly Council. In this profile, he shares his commitment to protecting pest free areas and strengthening Australia’s fruit fly system.

Latest from Grains Farm Biosecurity

Break the green bridge before sowing

Reducing pest and disease risk starts well before planting. Breaking the green bridge and managing stubble can reduce the carryover of rusts, viruses, aphids, slugs, and snails, while protecting soil moisture and nutrition. Learn practical steps, testing options and planning tips for a stronger start to sowing.

Latest from Farm Biosecurity

Come clean, go clean, to reduce biosecurity risks

Pests and diseases often spread through everyday movement on farm. Simple hygiene practices like ‘come clean, go clean’ can make a big difference. Learn how small, consistent actions can reduce risk and help protect your property and neighbouring farms.

Out and about

PHA’s CEO, Sarah Corcoran, attended the Panama TR4 Program Steering Committee meeting in March, marking the committee’s first meeting for 2026.

PHA’s Manager, Biosecurity Planning, Dr Stephen Quarrell, with Stephen Mudge and Dr Shamsul Bhuiyan from Sugar Research Australia at the Woodford Pathology Course.

PHA’s CEO, Sarah Corcoran, attended National Biosecurity Committee (NBC) meeting 44 in Canberra.