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The Queensland sugarcane industry has launched a push to secure the evidence needed to restore paraquat access in cane production, with industry groups warning the herbicide’s removal could leave growers without effective weed-control options.Photo: CANEGROWERS.
The Queensland sugarcane industry has launched a push to secure the evidence needed to restore paraquat access in cane production, with industry groups warning the herbicide’s removal could leave growers without effective weed-control options.
Following the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority’s (APVMA) decision to remove sugarcane from revised paraquat and diquat labels, Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has joined Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and other agricultural groups in seeking a pathway for continued use.
The APVMA’s decision was based on an unresolved risk assessment relating to birds, while assessments covering residues, trade and mammals were resolved without issue.
QCAR General Manager Tara Malapass said paraquat remained a key tool for early-season weed control in sugarcane.
“It remains one of the few effective options for early-season weed control, and its removal from in-crop use has significant implications for a farmer’s ability to manage weeds effectively and sustainably,” she said.
Mrs Malapass said historical data on bird interactions with paraquat use in cane did not provide the specific evidence now required by the regulator.
“Generating that evidence is the core task ahead,” she said.
QCAR has begun discussions with SRA to establish a cross-industry technical working group to investigate the APVMA’s requirements and develop the evidence needed to support continued paraquat use.
The group will include specialists in chemistry, regulation, agronomy, ecology, spray technology and cropping systems.
QCAR said the work would involve collaboration with other industries, including grains, rice, potatoes and vegetables, which are facing similar challenges.
Mrs Malapass said there was no guarantee the review process would result in paraquat’s continued approval.
“What we can commit to is exhausting every viable avenue, working transparently with farmers and industry partners, and keeping members informed as this progresses,” she said.
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