Asian Gypsy Moth vessel inspection

Australia's Department of Agriculture will conduct its annual heightened surveillance regime to manage the risks posed by Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) on international vessels from 15 July to 31 October.

In its Notice to Industry No.69/2014, the Department states that as in previous years, international vessels that are considered high risk for AGM will receive a questionnaire from the Maritime National Coordination Centre (MNCC) as part of the pre-arrival process. The MNCC willadvise if an AGM inspection is required.

The department is requesting vessel masters and crew to remain vigilant for AGM and their egg masses; and to advise the department as soon as possible of any suspected detections of AGM.

The department has developed a pest alert brochure to assist vessel masters and crew to detect hitchhiking pests of biosecurity concern, such as AGM. The pest alert brochure can be found on the departmental website.

Early detection and accurate reporting of pests such as AGM prior to arrival greatly assists in managing the risk offshore where possible; and minimises the level of intervention by the Department on arrival.
 

GAC Australia