Extension and RSD management in the Burdekin; challenges and successes

Historically, the Burdekin sugar industry has had low levels of Ratoon Stunting Disease (RSD). However, from 2019 RSD levels started to increase on farms and then was detected on approved seed cane plots. Burdekin Productivity Services (BPS) staff, along with support from Sugar Research Australia (SRA) pathology staff, investigated the scale of the issue along with factors affecting transmission of RSD. Following this, a strategic plan was developed and implemented to manage the increase in RSD. This paper discusses the actions undertaken and results achieved. In 2023, no positive results to RSD on approved seed cane plots were found after extensive sampling, and there has been an apparent decrease of RSD on farms across the region.