April 2026
Basin Plan Review - have your say
The 2026 Basin Plan Review is now underway, providing an opportunity for growers and community members to help shape the future of water management across the Murray-Darling Basin.
This is the first comprehensive review since the Basin Plan was introduced in 2012. It will draw on current science and community input to guide how environmental, social and economic needs are balanced over the next decade.
Growers are encouraged to make a submission. It does not need to be long or technical. Practical, on-the-ground experience is valuable and plays an important role in shaping future outcomes. You can make a submission online, by email, or by mail.
All submissions must be received by 5pm AEST May 1, 2026
Details: 2026 Basin Plan Review: Have Your Say - MDBA
For any questions about the submission process, you can:
· Go to: https://www.mdba.gov.au/enquiry
· Call 1800 230 067 (free call)
Upcoming spray workshops May 4-5
Two spray application workshops will be held next month, presented by Don Thorpe from Horticultural Spraying Specialists. One will be held at Loxton on May 4, and another at Waikerie/Sunlands on May 5. Further details on time and location to be advised.
Farming for the Future with Confidence
Farming for the Future with Confidence is a grower-focused workshop and expo, organised by CCW Co-operative, designed to support practical decision-making during a period of structural change across South Australian agriculture. With ongoing pressure from wine grape oversupply, water constraints and shifting market conditions, the event brings together growers and industry to focus on what comes next.
The format is practical and commercially relevant, connecting growers with credible partners across industry, government, research, finance, export, logistics, ag-tech and advisory services. The program will cover key themes including grower stories, market insights, water efficiency and data in action, alongside transition planning and real-world experience. It also provides an opportunity for direct engagement with solution providers, offering practical insights and next steps for those considering change or planning ahead.
The event will be held at the Berri Hotel (Tim O’Brien Room), on Wednesday, April 29 from 10am to 4pm.
Registrations are essential. To register your interest, contact Voula Zois at CCW on (08) 8583 2286 or register online.
Fruit fly focus continues
Fruit fly management remains a priority across the Riverland, with recent media coverage helping reinforce the importance of continued vigilance.
Recent features have highlighted the work being undertaken across the region, including operations at the Sterile Insect Technique facility at Barmera being featured on South Aussie with Cosi. (Episode 4 Sunday 8 March - the segment starts at about 1:30 and finishes around the five-minute mark).
Broader control efforts were recognised in this ABC story. Fruit Fly Fight: Five year battle against interstate invader - ABC News
This article from ABC Rural highlights the potential for black soldier fly larvae to convert food and organic waste into high protein livestock feed. It could limit breeding opportunities for pests such as fruit fly, providing an additional benefit for orchard management.
Riverland Citrus Stories - full series now available
All episodes of Riverland Citrus Stories are now available as a special series on The Citrus Segment podcast.
The series captures a cross-section of South Australia’s citrus industry, documenting the people, businesses and decisions that have shaped its development over time. Through these recorded conversations, the project preserves knowledge, experience and perspective that might otherwise be lost.
The seven-episode series features:
Barry Philp - a historical overview of the development of the SA citrus industry, from early plantings through to irrigation expansion, export growth and industry change
David Ingerson (Ingy’s Citrus) - four generations of citrus growing, including expansion, varietal development, export strategy and business growth
Jeff Knispel (Nippy’s) - the evolution from a family packing operation to a nationally recognised brand, including processing, diversification and regulatory change
John Plush (Winkie) - more than a century of citrus growing, covering irrigation, pest management, packing and market development
Yandilla Park / Andrew Weigall story - the growth of a major horticultural business and its influence on industry collaboration, export and workforce development
Helen Aggelettos (Venus Citrus) - building a citrus business from the late 1980s, with insights into market development, resilience and operating in a changing industry
Mike Arnold (GM Arnold & Son) - a lifetime in citrus, including propagation systems, variety development and long-term industry challenges
The series is produced for the SA Citrus Improvement Society and made possible through funding from the Rex Andrew Trust.
All episodes are now available via The Citrus Segment on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the Citrus SA website.
April production notes
Copper sprays: Aim to begin your copper application at the start of April to help minimise any fungal diseases. Spray by variety order starting with early navels and mandarins, Mid-season navels, Cara Cara’s, Bloods and mandarins and then late season navels and mandarins.
Stop Drop 2,4D application: Start applications from mid-April but make sure that its applied at least two weeks minimum after your last copper application.
Some agronomists prefer Stop drop sprays before copper sprays. Consult your packing shed and the labels of chemicals to make an informed decision.
Autumn GA: Consult your agronomist about rates and your packer regarding your harvest strategy. Delaying or lengthening your harvest window coming into a year with so many uncertainties could prove to be beneficial.
Quality control: Continue removing sunburnt fruit, removing now while visible with help aid with your pack out.
Don’t forget to put male/female Fruit Fly traps around loading pads to reduce the possibility of hitch-hiking fruit fly becoming established in your orchard.