New regulations for managing stable fly
The Department of Agriculture and Food is helping local government, communities and industry to manage stable fly in Western Australia under new regulations.
The regulations replace those formerly administered by the Department of Health, and follow discussions with community groups, agricultural industries and local government.
Department spokesman Ian McPharlin said that stable fly was an aggravating pest for humans, domestic and commercial animals on the coastal plain near Perth, particularly during warmer months.
“The stable fly needs animal blood to breed and lay eggs,” Dr McPharlin said. “It has sharp mouthparts that can inflict painful bites on bare skin. This can lead to considerable distress.”
The new regulations are part of the Biosecurity and Agricultural Management (BAM) Act and require agricultural enterprises and residents of 13 local government areas to minimise stable fly breeding.
These are Armadale, Chittering, Cockburn, Gingin, Harvey, Joondalup, Kalamunda, Kwinana, Rockingham, Serpentine-Jarrahdale, Swan, Wanneroo and part of the Shire of Murray. Stable fly is found in other areas also, but is less of a problem.
The new regulations deal specifically with raw poultry manure, feedlots and crop waste, all considered prime fly breeding sites. Non-compliance will attract fines.
Local government rangers and environmental health officers will continue to visit properties, provide education and communication, issue warnings and monitor general compliance with the new regulations. The department will provide inspectors if further action is needed.
“The new regulations have been developed in close consultation with affected parties,” Dr McPharlin said. “We hope they are a practical answer to this difficult issue in areas where agricultural practices and human amenity have been coming into conflict.”
Details of the new management plan can be found at biosecurity.wa.gov.au
