More Varroa Mite Found in The Hunter

BY OLIVIA DILLON

 

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) says nine new premises across the Hunter and the Central Coast have been found to be infected with varroa mite.

In the Hunter alone, cases have been detected at Brookfield, Glen William, Loxford, and Sawyers Gully.

The discovery has prompted a new emergency order, and brings the total number of affected properties to 131 since the parasite was originally found at the Port of Newcastle last June.

 

The DPI will dispose of the bees and equipment on affected properties, and is encouraging bee keepers with hives in the extension areas to consider harvesting their honey. 

 

 

Varroa Mite Unlikely to Have Originated at the Port of Newcastle

BY OLIVIA DILLON

It's now believed the varroa mite could have been present in the Hunter for years, following an enquiry into the parasite's origin in the region. 

Surveillance conducted after the mite's discovery at the Port of Newcastle, indicates there were high numbers of mites in hives up to 10 kilometres away from the detection point. 

Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHIC) CEO Daniel La Feuvre appeared before a senate inquiry into the adequacy of Australia's biosecurity measures last week, and said the parasite "probably originated away from the port". 

Mr La Feuvre said the AHIC is still unsure where the mite came from, but noted a number of high-risk local pathways, including the airport, RAAF base, and industrial area. 

Port of Newcastle dropped-off Plant Health Australia's (PHA) most recent list of high-risks ports, because it is a bulk handling port, not a container port.  

However, in response to the outbreak, the AHIC made a number of recommendations on improving port biosecurity measures across the board. 

New data indicates it's unlikely the varroa mite entered the Hunter through the Port of Newcastle.