A Katherine-area property previously suspected of having the Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) has now been declared free of the serious plant pest.

“We received a positive result from the first round of testing on some weeds at the property. The quarantine area was expanded as an immediate precaution to ensure this serious virus is proactively managed,” said Dr Andrew Tomkins, Director of Biosecurity with the NT Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (DPIF).

“While that was not a conclusive result, we acted on the presumption of the virus being present, which is in accordance with national guidelines.

“As CGMMV is highly virulent, proceeding with an abundance of caution is important so we can protect NT growers and the national industry.

Following a subsequent comprehensive test—using DNA sequencing undertaken interstate that can take several days—one property in Katherine’s Venn area has been found to be free of CGMMV.

A second property in the Venn area within the existing quarantine areas is waiting for further laboratory results from interstate to clearly establish whether the virus is present on that property.

There are 10 NT properties where the presence of the virus is confirmed.

“The department is committed to the eradication of CGMMV and is working with growers to actively manage this outbreak. For more information about managing farm biosecurity, go to www.farmbiosecurity.com.au,” added Dr Tomkins.

Surveillance for CGMMV continues interstate, but there have been no positive detections in crops elsewhere in Australia.