A new biosecurity zone has been established in Queensland to further protect the State’s beekeeping industry from the threat of varroa mite.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Mark Furner said honey producers would welcome the step as another important safeguard of their livelihood.
“Queensland is free of varroa mite and we want to keep it that way,” Mr Furner said.
“All of Queensland is now a designated biosecurity zone and anyone wishing to bring in bees, hives, used beekeeping equipment or bee products (including unprocessed honey) from states or territories where varroa mite has been found will need a permit.
“Entry from states or territories declared free of varroa mite will be allowed without a permit, providing any hives are secured to prevent bees from escaping or entering other hives while in transit.”
President of the Queensland Beekeepers Association, Jacob Stevens said the move was a positive step forward for members and industry colleagues who had been caught up during the closure of state borders.
“Varroa mite is a significant threat to honey bees and all those dependent on a healthy honey bee industry,” Mr Stevens said.
“The reopening of borders under a strict permit and compliance system will provide beekeepers with a means to migrate bees again on the back of another challenging season for the state’s beekeepers.”
Apiarists who suspect a case of varroa mite should immediately call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or email info@daf.qld.gov.au.
