MYRTLE RUST DISEASE

Mr PEDERICK (Hammond) (15:34): My question is to the Minister for Forests. What steps is the government taking to identify and combat the possible spread of myrtle rust into South Australia? Myrtle rust is a non-indigenous fungal disease that can cause serious damage to eucalypts and flowering native plants and threatens both farmed and native forests. It was identified in New South Wales earlier this year and has recently been found to be spreading in that state. Control measures are dramatic, involving destruction of affected trees and plants and quarantine of affected areas.

The SPEAKER: Member for Hammond, I didn't quite understand who that question was to. Myrtle rust—I am fascinated to find out. I assume it is the Minister for Forests, is it?

Mr PEDERICK: The Minister for Forests, yes. It is a fungal disease of trees.

The Hon. M.F. O'BRIEN (Napier—Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Northern Suburbs) (15:35): All possible steps.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Very good answer, minister.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order! I am sure we all know a lot more about myrtle rust now than we did before. Do we have any further questions?

Mr PEDERICK: I'll go again.

The SPEAKER: The member for Hammond.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!