How hives will be treated in wake of Victorian Varroa detection

The noted pest has been found in the north of the state. Here’s how infected hives will be treated.

A deadly varroa mite on the back of a honey bee. The mite has been detected in Victoria for the first time.

Beekeepers are being assured hives won’t be destroyed if Varroa mite is detected, as industry and government work to manage the mite within Victoria’s borders for the first time.

Agriculture Victoria today confirmed a hive at a single property in Nagiloc, near Mildura in northern Victoria, was the site of the first detection of the mite since the outbreak of the pest in NSW in 2022.

The hive was detected as part of Agriculture Victoria surveillance activities during almond pollination.

It is understood any infected hives will not be destroyed, in line with the national Transition to Management plan.

Victorian Apiarist’s Association president John van Weeghel said no hive in Australia should be destroyed as part of the management of the mite. 
He said industry was not surprised by the detection.

“We were expecting it. If you look at the history of Varroa across the world, that is what happens, you can almost predict how this will play out,” Mr van Weeghel said.

Mr van Weeghel said the mite will “gradually and slowly spread”, and has urged beekeepers not to use chemicals as preventive treatment.

“If you don’t have Varroa in your hives, don’t treat your hives, it’s not preventive,” Mr van Weeghel said.

“People should ignore anything coming out of social media.”

Agriculture Victoria acting chief plant health officer Stephen Dibley said the department was working with the affected beekeeper to minimise spread of the mite.

“This early detection of Varroa mite enables Victorian beekeepers to prepare and manage their hives effectively,” Dr Dibley said.

Varroa mite was first detected in NSW in 2022.

Varroa mite has been detected within Victorian borders for the first time. Picture: Nick Cubbin

A national management response plan is working with industry to live with and effectively management the mite.

The department said 12 Varroa development officers have been recruited in Victoria as part of the management plan to provide guidance to beekeepers on how to best manage the mite and use appropriate chemical control.

Beekeepers can contact Victorian Varroa Development Officers by email at [e-mail] or by calling 1800 958 485

Beekeepers in Victoria are urged to check their hives and to report suspected cases of varroa mite to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881