Goondiwindi Region beekeepers urged to guard against NSW varroa mite outbreak

Beekeepers in the Goondiwindi Region are being urged to guard against an outbreak of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) in New South Wales.

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM has participated in a teleconference with the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and is calling on local apiarists and amateur beekeepers alike to ensure they register with DAF and stay informed about the current requirements in Queensland.

Queensland residents who own or keep at least one (non-native) hive must register as a biosecurity entity (registration is free for non-commercial beekeepers): https://biosecurityregistration.daf.qld.gov.au

“If this outbreak becomes endemic in our country, it could significantly affect Australian agricultural industry and food production,” Cr Springborg said.

“With the varroa mite identified in New South Wales, Goondiwindi Region beekeepers have a particular responsibility on their hands due to the somewhat increased risk of being right on the border,” he said. “As we’ve seen all too well in recent years, the Goondiwindi Region can very much become the front line of border restrictions between Queensland and New South Wales,” he said.

A Movement Control Order is in place to keep varroa destructor mite out of the state. The order restricts the movement of bees, beehives and bee products (including honey) from New South Wales into Queensland.

Residents are also urged to monitor for unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood. Immediately report any of the above to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Further information and resources are available on the Queensland Government eHub: https://daf.engagementhub.com.au/varroa-mite

“We have a number of local residents who keep bees in our region for either honey production, or for pollination of crops,” Cr Springborg said.

“I urge everyone to register their hives and stay informed and to do their part to keep this under control,” he said. “I’d just like to remind people about the significance and importance of bees - not only do they form a multimillion industry in Australia, but they are also critically important for pollination and food production.”