Since the first detection in Queensland of Myrtle rust (Uredo rangelii) on Monday 27 December, investigations have confirmed the plant disease on a total of nine premises located throughout south-east Queensland (all sites inspected in North Queensland have been negative).

The infected properties include six retail nurseries and three production/wholesale nurseries.

Disease control measures have been put in place on each of the infected properties to prevent any further spread of the disease.

A Myrtle rust Control Group met on 4 January 2011 to provide an update on the disease situation and discuss the short term objectives of the response. This Control Group includes representatives from Premiers Department, the Department of Environment and Resource Management and Queensland industry bodies including:
• cut flower
• nursery and garden
• forestry and timber
• bee

Biosecurity Queensland has commenced trace back investigations to determine the source of the infected plants at each premise and trace forward investigations to try and locate any plants sold to the public or other retail nurseries.

Surveillance will also continue at green-life retail outlets in the Brisbane area over the coming weeks to determine if the disease may be more widespread. To date, no evidence of disease has been found.

A selection of printable information documents on myrtle rust is attached for your information. These documents provide a good overview on myrtle rust and images to help identify the disease

We encourage these documents to be passed on to people involved in your business and, where appropriate, made available to the public.

For more information visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au