BioSym2024: Advancing Biosecurity Innovation with Pest READI in Focus

Attending the Australian Biosecurity Symposium (BioSym2024) at the SeaWorld Resort on the Gold Coast was a fantastic experience for researchers on the Pest READI project. This two-day event, set against a backdrop of cutting-edge biosecurity discussions, highlighted emerging technologies, collaborations, and behaviour change strategies. As part of Pest READI, we’re currently working with stakeholders in the Northern Rivers Region of New South Wales, engaging growers, Indigenous groups, and industry representatives to co-design digital tools for area-wide integrated pest management (IPM). Our goal is to create user-friendly solutions that enhance the collective resilience of horticultural systems, and BioSym2024 was a valuable space to share and grow our ideas.

Working with Indigenous Communities in Biosecurity

One of the standout sessions on Day 1 was “Working with Indigenous Communities,” presented by members of Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital (TMBC). Their holistic biosecurity approach integrates Indigenous wisdom at all levels, from knowledge-sharing to hands-on monitoring and reporting. This session inspired us to think about continuing to deepen our connections in the Northern Rivers, ensuring Indigenous voices and expertise are integral to our pest management efforts.

David Barras’ talk, “Harnessing First Nations Wisdom: Enhancing Environmental Biosecurity,” further highlighted the power of self-determination and ethical partnerships. He outlined three critical areas: traditional knowledge, oral traditions, and the intangible cultural significance of biosecurity. His emphasis on co-designing solutions resonates strongly with our Pest READI philosophy, reinforcing the importance of authentic partnerships grounded in trust and respect.

Engaging Communities for Biosecurity Preparedness

Kirsten Philips’ session on biosecurity messaging stressed the importance of consistent and targeted campaigns that don’t lose momentum. Her strategy of leveraging lifestyle, environmental, and livelihood impacts to drive behaviour change aligns well with our outreach initiatives. We’re already envisioning how to adapt these insights for our Northern Rivers stakeholders, including signage and social media engagement tailored to our diverse community.

Erin Roger from CSIRO spoke about the success of citizen science projects, like the “Myrtle Rust March,” in filling data gaps and engaging local populations. Using platforms like iNaturalist for community-driven monitoring could complement our area-wide IPM approach. Additionally, collaborating with high-profile figures like Costa from Gardening Australia (as Erin has) may offer us innovative ways to amplify our impact.

Pioneering Biosecurity with Technology

Another highlight was the session by Adam Hurrell on “AusPest Check,” a sophisticated cloud-based data visualisation tool designed for pest monitoring. Adam shared how the platform offers tailored data access, combining privacy and security features to support industry-driven efforts. Our discussion sparked exciting ideas on ways we could harness similar tools to enhance data sharing and collaboration in the Northern Rivers region.

We were also inspired by Michelle Demers from Bioscout, who shared advancements in spore-trapping technology. The system’s ability to identify fungal spores at the genus level presents exciting opportunities for integrating spore data with DNA analysis, paving the way for more precise and efficient IPM solutions. We’re eager to explore how this technology could benefit macadamia and avocado growers by improving disease forecasting and management.

John Roberts from CSIRO presented cutting-edge work on eDNA monitoring to detect Varroa mites in bee hives. His findings on effective honey testing and the promise of non-invasive entrance swabs for early detection highlighted the versatility of eDNA applications. The potential for this technology to be adapted for plant pathogens adds an exciting dimension to our digital surveillance strategies, offering new ways to bolster biosecurity in our region.

Enhancing Preparedness with Immersive Training

Andrew Hagan from Charles Sturt University presented cutting-edge extended reality training, immersing participants in biosecurity scenarios. Building visual tools that are both educational and engaging could significantly improve IPM awareness and practice.

Pest READI’s Contributions and Future Directions

Our project leader, Hazel, introduced Pest READI to the delegates on Day 2, detailing our mission to build a community of practice in AW-IPM in the Northern Rivers, with plans to expand further afield in the future. We also showcased Pest READI as part of the “Catalysing Australia’s Biosecurity” exhibit, sparking lively discussions and forming new partnerships that will undoubtedly shape our journey.

BioSym2024 was a treasure trove of inspiration, reinforcing the necessity of cross-sector collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and culturally inclusive approaches. As we continue our work in Pest READI, the knowledge and connections gained will fuel our mission to create sustainable, community-driven biosecurity solutions. Stay tuned as we co-design the future of area-wide IPM together!