Outbreak of varroa mite parasite confirmed in Victoria for the first time
Agriculture Victoria has confirmed Varroa mite has been detected for the first time in Victoria at a property in Nangiloc near Mildura.
The infested hive was identified during Agriculture Victoria’s surveillance activities which are carried out each year during almond pollination.
With Varroa mite established in New South Wales, Agriculture Victoria has said the detection was not unexpected despite the additional health certification requirements in place for bees, bee products and beekeeping equipment to be able to enter Victoria.
In line with the National Varroa Mite Response Plan, Agriculture Victoria is working closely with beekeepers and orchardists to minimise the impacts on beehives and the almond pollination.
A team of 12 Varroa development officers has been recruited in Victoria under the National Varroa Mite Response Plan to provide guidance to beekeepers on how to manage varroa mite and appropriately utilise the chemical control options available.
Varroa management training workshops are also occurring across Victoria for both commercial and recreational beekeepers which cover monitoring and threshold surveillance actions, integrated pest management techniques, record-keeping, and chemical treatments, including organic options.
Agriculture Victoria has urged all beekeepers in Victoria to check their hives and record their inspections, mite testing results and hive movements in BeeMax.
