The Varroa mite attacks and feeds on honey bees and is one of the most damaging honey bee pests in the world.

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A significant mite infestation leads to the death of a honey bee colony.

Australia has been one of the last places on the planet to have suffered this mite due to strong biosecurity measures.

Ther DPI has eight officers spread throughout the state to advise on Varroa mite management.

The Bulahdelah crowd heard from one such officer, a beekeeper with extensive experience from Tocal Agricultural College.

A number of actions were suggested for controlling or managing the mite – regular queening, replacement of old combs, nutrition management, management assistance and regular monitoring.

Other issues of importance included the timing of any treatment, rotation of different treatments, ensuring good record keeping and avoiding where possible any reinfestation.

“(The event) was well received and all those who attended went away with much valued information,” event organiser and local beekeeper Gary Haynes said.

“The DPI was most supportive of coming to our town and letting all those interested know where the bee industry is now and what the future holds.”

While many hives were euthanised in 2022 the National Management Group has since shifted the focus response from eradication to management.

Many local beekeepers escaped the process as they were not in the red zones, however the experience has made them think twice about participating in the industry.

By John SAHYOUN