Tasmania has strengthened its biosecurity defences with the installation of new produce x-ray machines at Hobart and Launceston Airports.
The cutting-edge technology allows biosecurity officials to scan hand luggage of arriving travellers for prohibited plant material and other biosecurity risks that could threaten Tasmania’s agricultural sector.
Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce said the strategic deployment of the machines would improve the state’s biosecurity capabilities.
“By implementing this new technology, our much-loved detector dogs can focus on carousel baggage while staff use the x-rays for passengers at the arrival gate,” Pearce said.
“These new machines are ready in time for the higher biosecurity risk months over spring and summer when plant pests and diseases start to become more active,” Pearce said.
The technology is another layer in Tasmania’s comprehensive biosecurity system, which leverages the state’s island isolation to prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases.
Alongside the new technology, authorities are encouraging public vigilance as part of the broader biosecurity effort.
“It’s a timely reminder for Tasmanians to keep an eye out for anything unusual in their fruit and vegetables and report any signs of fruit fly or other pests or diseases immediately to Biosecurity Tasmania,” Pearce said.
