Many grain pests and diseases can spread rapidly, so the earlier they are detected and treated on individual farms, the better for the entire grain industry.

It is essential growers keep their eyes open for pests and diseases and let others know if any are found.

One of the most effective ways of doing that is through PestFax, an initiative of the Department of Food and Agriculture WA, which is supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation.

PestFax is DAFWA’s reporting service for pests and diseases that provides its readers with information and advice on potential problems in their localities.

Issued weekly, PestFax gives growers the early warnings they need to take effective action to prevent problems on their properties.

PestFax editors Peter Mangano and Dusty Severtson say the key to its continuing success is growers sharing their “intelligence on the enemy”.

By contacting them and letting them know about pests and diseases in their area, other growers can have a head start on control.

They can be contacted on 9368 3753, or fax 9474 2405 or email pmangano@agric.wa.gov.au

Advise rs and consultants also have a role to play in helping growers with effective measures against pests and diseases.

Plant Health Australia executive director and chief executive officer Greg Fraser said advisers and consultants worked side by side with growers and were ideally positioned to see or hear reports of any unusual pests or diseases and report them for follow up to the responsible authority.

Mr Fraser was speaking at the launch of Australia’s revised Grains Industry Biosecurity Plan and the updated Farm Biosecurity Manual, which can be accessed through the GRDC web site, www.grdc.com.au/biosecuritylinks