Varroa Mite warning issued for Queensland beekeepers

Sunshine Coast beekeepers are being encouraged to stay vigilant as an outbreak of a destructive parasite threatens local hives.

Far North Coast Beekeepers Varroa Mite demonstration. Picture: Chris Shands

Sunshine Coast beekeepers are being encouraged to stay vigilant as an outbreak of a destructive mite threatens local hives.

A Biosecurity Queensland spokeswoman confirmed a total of 10 reports had been made for destructive varroa mites in the Sunshine Coast since June 8, 2025.

The pest, which can kill entire bee hives and colonies, was first confirmed in the Sunshine Coast at Landsborough last month.

The spokeswoman said the department expected a “rapid spread” of the pest throughout Queensland in the coming months.

“Varroa mite detections will increase further as the warmer weather arrives and bee activity increases,” she said.

“This situation is expected, and we have been preparing alongside industry for rapid spread of the pest within our state. Queensland is aligning to the national approach of managing varroa mite as the pest cannot be eradicated.”

The spokeswoman said local beekeepers had a responsibility to report any varroa mites to help slow the spread.

“Although there are no movement restrictions in place within Queensland, all beekeepers have a general biosecurity obligation to report varroa mite and manage the risk posed to the broader beekeeping industry,” she said.

According to Biosecurity Queensland the mite could potentially impact honey production and crops that rely on pollination, including apples, mangoes and avocados.

The comments from the department come after local beekeepers shared their mite discoveries on social media, with one post stating, “this is not a drill. The threat is here – and it’s real.”

“Don’t assume you’re in the clear. Early detection is critical to prevent wider spread and protect our bees,” the post stated.

The department requests all beekeepers in the state to complete a monthly check of their hives for varroa mites and report the results to Bee 123, regardless of the results.

Originally published as Varroa Mite warning issued for Queensland beekeepers