Travellers have a key role in keeping phylloxera out of our vineyards

When Peter Mortimer, Rugby League legend and winner of three NRL premierships, finally hung up his boots, he turned his hand to wine making. “It’s not a bad drop” – if Peter does say so himself.

According to Peter, “We make some of the world’s best wines in Australia. Unfortunately, like many wine grape growing areas, the Orange region wine production is at risk from grape phylloxera. Introducing this tiny insect causes vine death and can put a vineyard out of business. It’s of concern, as there are pockets of infected vineyards in Victoria and around the Sydney basin, and there’s no way to control phylloxera once it’s introduced.”

“Phylloxera can be spread by moving grapevines or cuttings from infested areas into other areas of the state or interstate. People don’t tend to think about grapevines being an issue, but it certainly is for grape growers. If you are walking around grapevines in an infested area, please check your shoes for soil before heading to wineries in other areas,” he says.

Being aware of the risks is a simple way to help protect an important industry Australia-wide, and make sure your favourite drop is still readily available.

More information about what can and can’t be moved across state borders