$2.17 M will be invested in research to drive innovative solutions to protect our agricultural industries from PSHB
The WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) will invest $2.17 million across three new research projects to help drive innovative solutions to protect our State’s agricultural industries from the shot-hole borer. The projects will focus on key research priorities such as improved control strategies, detection and surveillance methods, and better understanding of host biology and interactions in the WA environment.
A Curtin University-led project will develop predictive models and risk maps to help prioritise surveillance and control efforts, ensuring efficient resource allocation and enhanced decision-making.
Murdoch University will lead a project to further examine the host range of shot-hole borer in WA, looking at advanced technologies such as remote sensing, AI-driven risk mapping and geospatial tools to improve early detection.
The University of Western Australia-led project will investigate the development and use of innovative chemical and biological controls against the pest, as well as improved pest detection by identifying new chemical lures and harnessing community involvement.
Researchers will work closely with WA Local Governments to undertake the project work across a range of environments and host trees.
Ongoing research findings and outcomes will be shared with industry stakeholders throughout the three-year term of each project.
““This is an excellent example of what WAARC was set up to achieve – working together with our multi-organisational network of government, academia and industry to build transformational research focused on priority issues and key knowledge gaps for WA,” ”
WAARC Director Kelly Pearce said undertaking research in Western Australian conditions and environments was critical to learn more about polyphagous shot-hole borer and find alternative solutions. “To maximise the impact of these projects, WAARC will facilitate active engagement through regular cross-project workshops and information-sharing sessions.
“This collaboration will ensure timely communication of research results to enable the three projects to adapt and address challenges collectively, enhancing shot-hole borer management and WA’s biosecurity resilience.”
For more information, visit the WAARC website. WAARC is backed by $25 million in State Government funding to boost Western Australia’s research capacity and industry sustainability.