Previous updates
View previous updates as part of the NSW DPI Varroa mite emergency response.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 106 IP’s
For beekeepers who now find themselves in a new red or purple zone, find answers to your questions at our FAQ https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/biosecurity/current-situation/varroa-mite-emergency-response/varroa-frequently-asked-questions
Baiting of wild European honey bees underway in Denman, Calga, Somersby, Wyong and Narrabri. First round of baiting has been completed in Nana Glen and Jerrys Plains. Plans for other areas of the eradication zone are underway.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Varroa mite emergency response is reminding all beekeepers in the eradication or red zones that they must not keep bees until advised, likely a number of years.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Surveillance of hives in the purple zone has identified 2 new infested premises, bringing the total infested premises to 106.
The new cases are at properties in Tumbi Umbi on the Central Coast, and Mulbring in the Hunter. Both are outside the eradication (red) zones, meaning the current eradication zone will be expanded to cover these infected premises and a new biosecurity order has been made. The emergency zone map can be found here: dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Response staff have carried out surveillance on over 10,000 hives in the purple zone, and almost 30,000 hives state-wide.
Furthermore, beekeepers have tested over 85,000 hives through the approved hive movement program in the General Emergency Zone and all beekeepers are now required to carry out mandatory alcohol wash surveillance at least every 16 weeks. Beekeepers need to report alcohol wash results here: Alcohol wash report
The purple zone is there to delimit the spread of the Varroa mite from the infested sites and NSW DPI remains confident in containment.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 104 IP’s
For beekeepers who now find themselves in a new red or purple zone, find answers to your questions at our FAQ https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/biosecurity/current-situation/varroa-mite-emergency-response/varroa-frequently-asked-questions
Baiting of wild European honey bees underway in Denman. First round of baiting has been completed in Nana Glen and Jerrys Plains. Baiting will soon commence in the Calga, Sommersby, Wyong and Narrabri areas.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Varroa mite emergency response is reminding all beekeepers in the eradication or red zones that they must not keep bees until advised, likely a number of years.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Surveillance of hives in the purple zone has identified 1 new infested premise, bringing the total infested premises to 104.
The new case is at a property near Lochinvar, between the Stanhope and Maitland eradication (red) zones, meaning the current eradication zone will be expanded to cover this infected premises and a new biosecurity order has been made. The emergency zone map can be found here https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/biosecurity/current-situation/varroa-mite-emergency-response
Response staff have carried out surveillance on over 10,000 hives in the purple zone, and almost 30,000 hives state-wide.
Furthermore, beekeepers have tested over 85,000 hives through the approved hive movement program in the General Emergency Zone and all beekeepers are now required to carry out mandatory alcohol wash surveillance at least every 16 weeks. You can report alcohol wash results here: https://forms.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forms/13537
The purple zone is there to delimit the spread of the Varroa mite from the infested sites and NSW DPI remains confident in containment.
Surveillance of hives in the purple zone has identified 1 new infested premise, bringing the total infested premises to 103.
NSW DPI have confirmed the new IP is linked to an existing case in the red zone.
A new Emergency Order has been issued and the zone map updated on the DPI website.
This detection demonstrates the importance of the continued surveillance efforts in the purple zone and the importance of industry cooperation with surveillance operations, including beekeepers ensuring they report results of mandatory 16-week alcohol washes to NSW DPI.
Report alcohol wash results at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 97% of reported managed hives in the eradication emergency zone areas have been euthanised.
Baiting of wild European honey bees has commenced in Nana Glen and Denman. The first round of baiting at Jerrys Plains has been completed.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 97% of reported managed hives in the eradication emergency zone areas have been euthanised.
Baiting of wild European honey bees has commenced in Nana Glen and Denman. The first round of baiting at Jerrys Plains has been completed.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 96% of reported managed hives in the eradication emergency zone areas have been euthanised.
Baiting of wild European honey bees has commenced in Nana Glen and Denman. The first round of baiting at Jerrys Plains has been completed.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 96% of reported managed hives in the eradication emergency zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia operations continue in the remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter eradication emergency zone areas.
A reminder to anyone with hives in the eradication emergency zone still to notify DPI of hive locations, please do so via the Beekeeper Varroa mite notification form https://forms.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forms/12288
You can check if your hives are within the eradication zone via the interactive map at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Baiting of wild European honey bees has commenced in Nana Glen and Denman. The first round of baiting at Jerrys Plains has been completed.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 95% of reported managed hives in the eradication emergency zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia operations continue in the remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter eradication emergency zone areas.
A reminder to anyone with hives in the eradication emergency zone still to notify DPI of hive locations, please do so via the Beekeeper Varroa mite notification form https://forms.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forms/12288
You can check if your hives are within the eradication zone via the interactive map at www.dpi.nws.gov.au/varroa
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains and has commenced in Nana Glen.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 95% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia operations continue in the remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains and has commenced in Nana Glen.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s, with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
More than 95% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia operations continue in the remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains and soon to commence at Nana Glen.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 102 IP’s. The new IP is in the red zone at Shortland, and is linked to existing cases.
More than 90% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia operations continue in the remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains and soon to commence at Nana Glen.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881.
There is a total of 101 IP’s with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
Almost 90% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains and soon to commence at Nana Glen.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
No new detections in NSW
The NSW DPI Varroa mite emergency response team can confirm there are no new detections of Varroa mite in NSW.
Recently a team conducted surveillance across a number of hives at Kindee, near Port Macquarie. Initial alcohol washes were conducted on site, along with using miticide strips and sticky mats inserted into the hives. These were returned negative for Varroa mite.
Further laboratory analysis of the samples taken has been completed and has also returned negative.
This is a good reminder to keep reporting possible detections of Varroa mite by
- Calling the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline,β―1800 084 881
- Completing theβ―Beekeeper Notifications - Varroa mite online form
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
There is a total of 101 IP’s with all confirmed cases either having links to existing cases or geographically related.
Owner Reimbursement Costs are now available for registered commercial beekeepers in the surveillance (purple) zone. Find out more about the reimbursement options at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Changes in the recently Gazetted Biosecurity (Varroa Mite) Emergency Amendment Order 2022 (No. 3) enable registered recreational beekeepers in the general emergency (blue) zone to move hives under a Hive Movement Declaration.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit.
Almost 85% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
1 new infected premises at Stockton, in the eradication (red) zone. This new case brings the total to 101 IP’s. The new case is linked to the current incursion.
NSW DPI is receiving a high volume of calls about swarming. If you have questions about what to do, or how to report a swam, please visit our guide at www.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit.
Almost 80% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
Beekeepers who have hives at risk of inundation in areas described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning can move their hives to high ground under a current Emergency Group Permit.
Almost 80% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains where two bait stations were treated yesterday.
Don’t forget to report the results of your alcohol washes at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
If you have hives in an area described by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) as under a current flood warning and your hives are at risk of inundation due to flood water, you can move the affected hives to higher ground under the Emergency Group Permit. The hotline will be closed this weekend, reopening Monday 9am.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
- Baiting of wild bees continues at Jerrys Plains where two bait stations were treated yesterday.
- No new detections
- Almost 70% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
- Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
- Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
- Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
- The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
- For more information on the Varroa mite call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
Reminder that beekeepers whose hives are located in an area described by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) in a current flood warning whose bees or hives are in a location that may be at risk of inundation due to flood water can operate under the Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 5 days).
No new detections
Almost 70% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Almost 70% of hives in the Eradication Emergency Zone areas have been euthanised.
Euthanasia and disposal of managed hives completed in Jerrys Plains, Narrabri, Denman, and Wards River areas.
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and remainder of the Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zone areas.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
Reminder that beekeepers whose hives are located in an area described by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) in a current flood warning whose bees or hives are in a location that may be at risk of inundation due to flood water can operate under the Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 7 days).
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations continuing in the Nana Glen and Newcastle / Hunter Eradication Emergency Zones area Eradication Emergency Zones.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
Reminder that beekeepers whose hives are located in an area described by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) in a current flood warning whose bees or hives are in a location that may be at risk of inundation due to flood water can operate under the Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 7 days).
There is a permit system in place to preserve queen bees that have a genetic high value as part of the National Varroa Mite Response Plan, which allows registered commercial queen bee breeders to select genetically important queens to safeguard future populations. To apply, call the Varroa hotline 1800 084 881.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
There was 1 new detection of Varroa mite today, within the existing red eradication zone in the Newcastle area - that brings total infected premises across NSW to 100.A beekeeper called in the result after completing surveillance at home - thank you for letting us know.
It's not required by beekeepers in the red zone to conduct surveillance at this time, due to the widespread euthanasia of hives currently occurring.
If you do conduct surveillance and find Varroa mite, it is a requirement under the emergnecy order to report it to NSW DPI.
Euthanasia operations continue in the Nana Glen and Hunter red eradication zones.We appreciate the continued co-operation beekeepers are providing this this challenging task to eradicate Varroa mite from Australia. This is taking a toll on many beekeepers, and we encourage those that need support to reach out. Find the right organisation to call at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa.
Don't forget for those affected by flooding (a current flood warning) the Emergency Group Permit in place.Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 7 days).
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit https://fal.cn/3rXKe or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
In respect of the funeral for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, there will be minimal communications from the response during this time.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations have commenced in the Nana Glen Eradication Emergency Zone and are continuing in the Newcastle / Hunter area Eradication Emergency Zones.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
Reminder that beekeepers whose hives are located in an area described by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) in a current flood warning whose bees or hives are in a location that may be at risk of inundation due to flood water can operate under the Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 7 days).
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update Emergency Order 28 published - link at the top of this pageReminder that beekeepers whose hives are located in an area described by the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) in a current flood warning whose bees or hives are in a location that may be at risk of inundation due to flood water can operate under the Emergency Group Permit. Under the permit hives can be moved to a location at a higher elevation at the same premises.
Notify DPI of the movement by completing the online form or by calling 1800 084 881 (9am to 5pm - 7 days).
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
High-value queen bee assessments commenced at Ourimbah.
Euthanasia and Disposal Plan – Information for beekeepers has been updated on the Varroa mite FAQ page.
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
New Biosecurity (Varroa mite) Emergency Order No. 27 issued. The key changes include:
- Registered commercial beekeepers moving hives into the Blue Zone from another state must comply with the hive movement requirements set out in clause 43 of the Emergency Order and any other NSW requirements that apply to that state (e.g. Braula fly in Victoria).
- Beekeepers who intend to bring hives into the NSW Blue Zone from another state also need to comply with the movement requirements of that state.
You can access the current Emergency Order at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
No new detections
Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at https://fal.cn/3rw5W
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit https://fal.cn/3rw5W or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Varroa mite Emergency Order No. 26 has been issued, extending permission for the collection and movement of bees or Varroa mite carriers for the purpose of undertaking diagnostic testing, to pest controllers and authorised officers.
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more information on the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call the hotline on 1800 084 881.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia and Disposal Plan – Information for beekeepers has been updated on the Varroa mite FAQ page. Visit the FAQ section at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI Authorised Officers to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π A reminder that the Reimbursement Program for registered beekeepers impacted by biosecurity operations to control the Varroa mite is now open. Links for applications will be provided by an Authorised Officer when they visit premises.
You can read more about the Reimbursement Program via the Reimbursement link at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia and Disposal Plan – Information for beekeepers has been updated on the Varroa mite FAQ page. Visit the FAQ section at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
For more information visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π The response team understands the challenge of this task and thanks the community for working with us.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π Varroa mite Emergency Order No. 25 has been issued, allowing for registered beekeepers and pest controllers to euthanise swarms in the (red) Eradication zone.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by NSW DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
π Reminder – For registered commercial beekeepers who are moving honeybees and hives in low risk areas - you are required to complete the Hive Movement Declaration form for each movement, even if it is just for the return trip.
π NEW π
For registered commercial beekeepers that have deployed hives for almond pollination, there is an exemption to the alcohol washing requirements, where miticide strips and sticky mats have been used.
For more information visit the Hive Movement Declaration page.
All beekeepers in eradication zones must tell DPI the location of hives, including feral hives.
You can notify by:
- by telephone to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- or by using the online form.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Eradication zones. Affected beekeepers will be contacted directly by DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
All beekeepers in eradication zones must tell DPI the location of hives, including feral hives.
You can notify by:
- telephone to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- or by using the online form. For more detail visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π New Emergency Order
Varroa mite Emergency Order No. 24 includes changes to raising and moving queen bees in the Surveillance and General Emergency zones, interstate movement of queen bees for commercial registered beekeepers and one change relating to euthanisation and disposal in the Eradication zones.
You can find the current Varroa mite Emergency Order at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
For more details on what you can and can’t do in each zone visit the FAQ page at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π No new detections
π Euthanasia operations continue in the Central Coast, Hunter Valley and Newcastle Eradication zones, currently focused around the Calga/Somersby/Wyong areas. Beekeepers in eradication zones will be contacted directly by DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses.
All beekeepers in eradication zones must tell DPI the location of hives, including feral hives. You can notify by:
- by telephone to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- or by using the online form.
For more detail visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π Industry briefings
Registered beekeepers within the red zones of the Hunter local control area have been invited to industry briefings this week. The first briefing event will be held in the Newcastle area, Tuesday 23 August, followed by a briefing in Port Stephens on Wednesday 24 August.
If you are a registered beekeeper from that area and didn’t receive an invitation, email varroa.response@emergency.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
To ensure you receive future emails on the Varroa mite response, please log onto the Biosecurity & Food Safety Portal and update your email address.
A recording of the Newcastle event will be made available for registered beekeepers in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas.
π No new detections
Surveillance continues across the state, with alcohol washes of purple zone moving toward red zone at Nana Glen, surveillance using sticky mats at Narrabri and pollination areas.
π Euthanasia operations commenced today around the Calga area within the Central Coast Eradication zone. Beekeepers in eradication zones will be contacted directly by DPI to make arrangements as the operation progresses across the zones.
All beekeepers in eradication zones must tell DPI the location of hives, including feral hives. You can notify:
- by telephone to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- or by using the online form.
For more detail visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π DPI teams will be working in the Central Coast, Hunter Valley and Newcastle Eradication zones from Monday 22 August to carry out widespread euthanasia actions, as per the agreed Varroa mite eradication plan.
Beekeepers will be contacted directly by DPI to make arrangements.
All beekeepers in eradication zones must tell DPI the location of hives, including feral hives. You can notify by:
- by telephone to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881,
- or by using the online form.
For more detail visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π No new detections
Surveillance continues across the state, with alcohol washes of purple zone moving toward red zone at Nana Glen, surveillance using sticky mats at Narrabri and pollination areas.
π Industry briefings
Registered beekeepers within the red zones of the Hunter local control area have been invited to industry briefings next week.
If you are a registered beekeeper from that area and didn’t receive an invitation, email varroa.response@emergency.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
To ensure you receive future emails on the Varroa mite response, please log onto the Biosecurity & Food Safety Portal and update your email address.
A recording of the Newcastle event will be made available for registered beekeepers in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π The Varroa mite eradication focus is now moving into the euthanasia and disposal phase of the response having successfully conducted extensive surveillance around the perimeter of the zone.
This next phase of eradication includes the Newcastle, Port Stephens and Central Coast regions. It will begin on the outer edges of the Varroa mite eradication zones and work towards the centre, with the first major operation taking place around Calga.
Affected beekeepers will be contacted by the local response team to confirm details of hives and discuss disposal and reimbursement options.
For more detail visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π No new detections
Surveillance continues across the state, with alcohol washes of purple zone moving toward red zone at Nana Glen, surveillance using sticky mats at Narrabri and pollination areas.
π Industry briefings
Registered beekeepers within the red zones of the Hunter local control area have been invited to industry briefings next week.
If you are a registered beekeeper from that area and didn’t receive an invitation, email varroa.response@emergency.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
To ensure you receive future emails on the Varroa mite response, please log onto the Biosecurity & Food Safety Portal and update your email address.
A recording of the Newcastle event will be made available for registered beekeepers in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas.
π Varroa mite emergency response daily update π
π Reimbursement program made available
As previously announced, an $18 million support package has been developed for registered commercial beekeepers affected by the Varroa mite outbreak under an agreement reached by the NSW and Australian governments and apiary industry bodies.
The program aims to reimburse eligible registered commercial beekeepers for hives affected by biosecurity operations to control the declared Varroa mite biosecurity emergency. Registered recreational beekeepers will also be reimbursed.
For more detail visit the reimbursement page.
π No new detections
Surveillance continues across the state, with alcohol washes of purple zone moving toward red zone at Nana Glen, surveillance using sticky mats at Narrabri and pollination areas.
π Industry briefings
Registered beekeepers within the red zones of the Hunter local control area have been invited to industry briefings next week.
If you are a registered beekeeper from that area and didn’t receive an invitation, email varroa.response@emergency.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
To ensure you receive future emails on the Varroa mite response, please log onto the Biosecurity & Food Safety Portal and update your email address contact detail.
A recording of the Newcastle event will be made available for registered beekeepers in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas, later that week.
Varroa mite emergency response daily update
π Beekeepers testing their own hives is still very important to detecting and keeping a check on Varroa mite during this outbreak.
Testing by beekeepers who then rang in test results to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881) resulted in a team testing the suspected hives and detecting Varroa mite.
The two new sites are at Mayfield and Calga in the Local Control Centre area. They are both very close to existing infected premises hives.
Thank you to beekeepers across the State that are essential in ensuring we continue to detect Varroa mite, which helps us continue to work towards eradicating the pest. There are now 99 infected premises in NSW.
π Surveillance Surveillance continues across the State.
- Narrabri surveillance involves using strips and sticky mats.
- Nana Glen surveillance has moved to the purple zone, using alcohol washes.
- Pollination services sites surveillance involves using strips and sticky mats.
- No new detections have been found at any of these sites.
The map image shows the amazing amount of work our response crews and volunteer beekeepers have completed across the existing emergency zones and the number of negative results (note it is dated as at 11/8/22).
π Updated FAQs
See the updated FAQs in line with the latest emergency order.
π Extracting honey
Honey can now be extracted from a super in any zone at any time, but specific to certain conditions. The super must be moved to a bee proof enclosed space to extract honey, and you must stay within your zone. See our FAQ for more detail.
π Current situation
Count remains at 97 infected premises, with surveillance continuing at Narrabri, Nana Glen and pollination services sites.
πTransition of yellow zone into blue General emergency zone
55 days in to the Varroa mite emergency response, the yellow zone (which contains over 3,700 registered beekeepers), is now transitioned into the blue general emergency zone.
This means that those that were in a yellow notification emergency zone now fall under blue general biosecurity zone rules.
Our intensive surveillance for the length of the response provides DPI confidence and a clear understanding of the limit of the spread of Varroa mite. More information on the zone transition can be found in the latest media release https://fal.cn/3r3Vk
This achievement is thanks hundreds of people in the honeybee industry and from our agency partners across NSW and in other jurisdictions. We've worked together to report, test and trace the Varroa mite incursion to where it is.
We continue to work towards eradicating Varroa mite in NSW.
π What can I do in each zone?
A new emergency order has been issued (https://fal.cn/3r3Vl), which specifies what beekeepers are permitted to do with their hives in each zone. A revised set of frequently asked questions will be made available tomorrow (Wednesday 17 August) at https://fal.cn/3r3Vm.
πCurrent situation
The number of infected premises remains at 97, with no new IPs detected for a number of days. Work continues on eradication of IPs in the Hunter area, and Varroa mite surveillance in the Narrabri and Nana Glen areas.
Daily update - Varroa mite response
π No new infected premises have been detected, with the total number staying at 97.
π Surveillance at Narrabri continues including finishing sticky mat surveillance. No detection's of Varroa mite after the 1 infected premise to date.
π Surveillance at Nana Glen is occurring in the purple surveillance zone.
πThe focus in the Hunter area is on eradicating infected premises in the north around Jerry's Plains, Singleton, Denman and then moving to Calga and to euthanise around infected premises and surrounding hives in the southern part of the Hunter area.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Daily update
No new infected premises have been detected, with the total number staying at 97.
Surveillance continues in the Grafton and Narrabri area. No new infected premises have been found since the first and only detections in those areas.
What is permitted in each zone?
All emergency zones
Movement of hives, brood boxes, nucleus hives, packaged bees and queen bees are not permitted anywhere in NSW.
A special group permit was issued by DPI on Sunday 7 August allowing beekeepers in flood warning areas to move their hives to higher ground. The permit comes with a strict set of conditions to support eradication efforts while allowing beekeepers to also manage their hives.
Red eradication zones
Beekeepers are permitted to tamper with a hive to prevent swarming by placing an empty honey super on the hive and moving frames between the honey super on the hive. Specific requirements apply, as per the Emergency Order.
Beekeepers within the red eradication zones are permitted to remove honey from their infected hives or flow hives, if they are to be euthanised in the following 48 hours. Specific requirements apply, as per the Emergency Order.
A registered beekeeper or qualified pest controller may tamper with feral bees from a feral colony with the aim of euthanising them. Specific requirements apply, as per the Emergency Order.
Purple surveillance and yellow notification zones
Beekeepers are permitted to work their hives:
- for surveillance
- to remove frames and supers for honey extraction
- to place an empty super on a full hive to prevent swarming
- to euthanise a queenless hive (a hive that does not have a functional queen bee)
- to seal a dead out hive (where bee colony has died or left)
- to treat hive for American foulbrood or small hive beetle
A registered beekeeper or qualified pest controller may tamper with feral bees from a feral colony with the aim of euthanising them. Specific requirements apply, as per the Emergency Order.
Blue general zone
Registered commercial beekeepers within low-risk areas of NSW can complete a Hive Movement Declaration to move honeybees and hives, to allow for business continuity and to provide pollination services. There are explicit requirements on beekeepers before moving.
Hives and honeybees that have been in an eradication zone within the past 24 months or in the Narrabri emergency zones since 30 April 2022 are not permitted to be moved under the permit.
Beekeepers in all zones except red eradication zone, are permitted to work their hives, remove frames for honey extraction and place empty supers on full hives.
A registered beekeeper or qualified pest controller may tamper with feral bees from a feral colony with the aim of euthanising them. Specific requirements apply, as per the Emergency Order.
Beekeepers are permitted to work their hives:
- for surveillance
- to remove frames and supers for honey extraction
- to place an empty super on a full hive to prevent swarming
- to euthanise a queenless hive (a hive that does not have a functional queen bee)
- to seal a dead out hive (where bee colony has died or left)
- to treat hive for American foulbrood or small hive beetle.
Beekeepers from interstate
A Biosecurity Emergency Group Permit allows the movement of hives and honeybees to and from Queensland to transit through New South Wales.
Today’s Varroa mite response update
NEW ORDER OUT
πFeral bees Registered beekeepers and qualified pest controllers are permitted to destruct feral bees and hives. Clauses 19, 39, 46 and 51 relate to feral bees.
πManaging feral swarms in the blue zone Registered beekeepers in the Blue zone are allowed to capture and manage feral swarms. Clause 51 relates to managing feral swarms in the General Emergency Zone (blue zone).
πMovement of honey supers in purple, yellow and blue zones A change to allow movements of honey supers from within and between the purple, yellow and blue zones, subject to conditions. Clauses 42, 47 and 52 relate to the movement of honey supers in the Surveillance, Notification and General Emergency zones (purple, yellow and blue zones).
πMovement of honey supers in red zones New provision to allow supers to be moved out of the red zone (after being wrapped for 21 days and subject to other conditions), but not within or into the red zone. Clauses 32, 33, 34 and 35 relate to provisions for movement of honey supers in the Eradication Zone.
The Emergency Order and further information can be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa.
NUMBER OF IP's - Infected premises number remains at 97 - no new detection's today.
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Ongoing Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified 4 additional infected premises (IPs) today, with the total number of IPs in NSW now at 97.
The new infected premises are at Salt Ash, Mayfield East and Beresfield, all within the eradication zone. All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment, or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified 7 additional infected premises (IPs) today, with the total number of IPs in NSW now at 93.
The new infected premises are at Duckenfield, Thornton, Tarro, Nelsons Plains and 3 in Anna Bay, all within the eradication zone.
All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment, or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified 3 additional infected premises (IPs) today, with the total number of IPs in NSW now at 86. The new infected premises are at Kotara, Nelsons Plains and Butterwick, all within the Newcastle Region. All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment, or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified no new infected premises (IPs) today, with the total number of IPs in NSW remaining at 83.
All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment, or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified 4 additional infected premises (IPs), bringing the total number in NSW to 83. These IPs have been detected inside the eradication zone in the localities of Hinton, Brandy Hill, Macquarie Hills and Black Hill.
All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment, or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa mite response - Daily Update
Two new cases of Varroa mite have been detected at Seaham and Anna Bay. This brings the total number of Infected Premises to 79. These cases are located within existing eradication zones and are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa Mite response Daily Update.
Two new caseβs of Varroa Mite have been detected at Salamander Bay and Bolwarra Heights, increasing the total number of Infected Premises to 77. These cases are located within the existing eradication zone and have clear links with existing cases or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa Mite response Daily Update.
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance has identified 2 additional infected premises (IPs) in the Port Stephens LGA, bringing the total number in NSW to 75. These IPs have been detected inside the eradication zone in the localities of Duns Creek and Butterwick. All cases to date either have clear links through the movement of hives or equipment or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa mite. You can keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI Biosecurity Facebook Page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
Varroa Mite response Daily Update.
Tracing and surveillance have confirmed 9 new Infected Premises bringing the total to 73. Seven of the new IP's have been detected in the Port Stephens LGA at Raymond Terrace, Ferodale and Heatherbrae and the remaining two have been identified in Tarro and Mayfield east in the Newcastle LGA. All of these cases either have clear links to existing cases or are geographically related through the movement of hives or equipment.
We have refocused our efforts on tracing and euthanising hives within the eradication zone, which has led to the increased number of Infected Premises.
Varroa Mite response Daily Update.
Two new caseβs of Varroa Mite haβve been detected at One Mile and Anna Bay in the Port Stephens LGA, within the existing eradication zone, βincreasing the total number of Infected Premises to 64.
Due to the success of the surveillance in the outer regions there has been a greater focus over recent days in the βeradication βzone which has lead to the increase in number of Infected Premises.
All confirmed cases so far either have clear links to existing cases or are geographically related.
Beekeepers in the Surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa Mite and keep up to date with the latest information on the NSW DPI website Varroa Mite Emergency Response page www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
New factsheets outlining how beekeepers in each of the zones can manage their hives and the restrictions that apply within each zone are now available from the NSW DPI website.
Industry and community support continues to be critical in reducing the risk of any further spread of Varroa mite.
If you detect Varroa mite notify the Exotic Plant and Pest hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa Mite response Daily Update
DPI tracing and surveillance work has confirmed three new detections of Varroa mite, as field officers continue hive inspections with beekeepers across the state.
Two new detections near Phoenix Park and another at Brandy Hill bring the total number of infected premises to 62 since Varroa mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.
The new infected hives fall within an existing red zone, but with a new biosecurity order being made, the eradication zone around the Phoenix Park detection will expand slightly to the west.
All confirmed cases either have clear links to existing cases or are geographically related.
If you detect Varroa Mite notify the Exotic Plant and Pest hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa Mite response Daily Update.
Varroa mite tracing and surveillance work has confirmed three new detections of Varroa mite, as field officers continue hive inspections with beekeepers across the state. All new infected hives fall within existing red zones.
The two new detections near Salt Ash and another at Butterwick in the Port Stephens LGA brings the total number of infested premises to 59 since Varroa mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.
The new infested hives fall within an existing red zone, but with a new biosecurity order being made, the eradication zone around the Butterwick detection will expand slightly to the west. Tracing is underway to confirm how these sites are linked to previous detections.
Varroa Mite response Daily Update
There were no new detections of Varroa mite today, leaving the total number of Infected Premises steady at 56.
NSW DPI and our partners are working towards recovery planning for the state's beekeeping industry by undertaking analysis of the impact on beekeepers and industry by biosecurity zone and exploring options for analysis of impact to pollination industries. Thank you to all beekeepers and volunteers to date for your assistance as we continue to manage the Varroa mite incursion.
Beekeepers in the Surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa Mite and keep up to date with the latest information each day on this page and our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
If you detect Varroa Mite notify the Exotic Plant and Pest hotline on 1800 084 881.
Varroa Mite response Daily Update
One new case of Varroa Mite has been detected today at Medowie, within the current eradication zones, bringing the total number of Infected Premises to 56.
Beekeepers in the Surveillance zones should continue monitoring their hives for the presence of Varroa Mite and keep up to date with the latest information each day on this page and our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NSWDPI.Biosec
If you detect Varroa Mite notify the Exotic Plant and Pest hotline on 1800 084 881.
If you haven't already, beekeepers need to register with NSW DPI, and if you're in the Eradication, Surveillance and Notification zones you need to report your hive locations to NSW DPI.
You can complete the Beekeeper Notifications Varroa mite online form by clicking the button at the top of this page or call the Exotic Plant and Pest hotline on 1800 084 881.
As expected, the number of infected premises within the existing red zone area has increased today, the count is now at 55. This is because they are often in close proximity to existing hives.
The new detections have been identified within existing red eradication zones in the Hunter area.
Work continues on euthanising infected hives within the existing red zones across the region.
Reimbursement for registered recreational beekeepers in red eradication zones
Recreational beekeepers affected by varroa mite will be reimbursed for the destruction of their hives and bees under the agreed National Response Plan.
If you are a recreational beekeeper and your hives are to be euthanised within a red eradication zone, there are three options for reimbursement.
- Destruction and disposal of bees and hive ware
- Euthanised bee colony and keep hive ware
- Euthanised nucleus hives
Reimbursement amounts
The amounts available for reimbursement are as follows:
- Destruction and disposal of a fullsize hive - $550 dollars per single hive.
- Keep hive ware - $200 per single hive.
- Euthanised Nucleus hives - $200. (The beekeeper can opt to retain or have the nucleus hive ware destroyed and disposed of, the amount of reimbursement will be the same).
Process
An Authorised Officer will work closely with the registered recreational beekeeper, record details of the hives, taking photos and completing the necessary paperwork.
Only registered recreational beekeepers will be eligible for the reimbursement package and DPI is working with beekeepers and industry to finalise the payment process.
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Updates for beekeepers within the red eradication zones
A new Biosecurity Emergency Order has been issued to allow beekeepers in the red eradication zones to work their hives to prevent swarming, and also to remove honey in the 48- hours before their bees are euthanised.
Preventing swarming in red zones
Beekeepers may tamper with a hive to prevent swarming by placing an empty honey super on the hive and moving frames between the honey super on the hive.
Beekeepers should immediately notify the NSW DPI if the person suspects the presence of Varroa mite in their hives, by calling the Exotic Plant Pests Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Beekeepers may only transport an empty super for the purpose of managing swarming:
- Directly to the premises from the enclosed space at which the empty super has been kept, without stopping at any other premises at which bees or hives are present.
- By only carrying empty supers intended for hives at the premises, and no other empty supers.
Once the empty honey super is placed on the hive, it must remain on the hive, and the person cannot harvest the honey or move the hive or any of the components of the hive.
Harvesting honey from infected hives prior to euthanisation
Beekeepers within the red eradication zones are permitted to remove honey from their infected hives, if they are to be euthanised in the following 48 hours.
- Beekeepers must decontaminate all vehicles that will be used for transporting honey supers, before and after the move.
- The honey super must be cleared of bees and sealed so no bees can enter.
- The honey supers must be taken to an enclosed space for honey extraction.
- Transportation can only take place within the eradication zone and by using the most direct route.
- Beekeepers must not move any part of the brood box.
- Honey must not be extracted until the honey super is stored in a bee proof manner for 21 days or at -20 degrees Celsius for 72 hours.
Removal of honey from a flow hive
If an Authorised Officer advises a person in charge of bees that the bees will be euthanised within 48 hours, the person may tamper with a flow hive to extract honey from the hive, via the tap that is part of the hive.
There are currently 53 infected premises within emergency zones in NSW.
In the last couple of days these have been identified in the red eradication zones of the Hunter area.
The Local Control Centre at Maitland continues to focus on euthanising infected hives within those existing red zones across the region.
Intensive surveillance within the red zones is also taking place, meaning the infected premises number is increasing as they are found.
It's expected the number of infected premises within the existing red zone area will increase, as they are often in close proximity to existing hives.
View the interactive map to determine where you are placed in the emergency zone.
Surveillance continues in the Hunter area, with one new detection in an existing red zone at Anna Bay.
Emergency zone surveillance with a specific focus on the eradication (red) zone to identify any further infested properties within this zone. It is expected that further sites will be identified within the established eradication zone as hive inspections and monitoring continues.
Honeybee eradication process in the Hunter area
DPI has an approved process to euthanise and secure hives affected by Varroa mite.
When the Authorised Officer arrives on site, they will work closely with the beehive owner and record details of the hives, including taking photos and completing the Acknowledgement form for Disposal of Hives/Secure Storage.
Hive euthanasia process
Hive destruction by euthanasia is ideally performed in the evening when bees have returned to their hive. Wooden or hard plastic hive boxes are to be euthanised by approved methods. Hives will then be wrapped in plastic and sealed for 21 days.
Disposal
After euthanasia, beekeepers can choose to have their hives disposed of by burning or retained to be cleaned. The Authorised Officer on site will discuss the process with the beekeeper.
Keep your registration and contact details up to date
If you are a registered beekeeper in NSW, please ensure your contact details are up to date. You can update them at any time using our online form or call 02 6552 3000.
Not registered? You can also register online at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animals-and-livestock/bees/beekeeper-registration
Actions for beekeepers
All beekeepers responsible for honeybee colonies or hives within 50km biosecurity zones are either in the Notification zone, Eradication or Surveillance zones.
In those zones, beekeepers must tell NSW DPI where their honeybees and hives are. This includes queen honeybees in cages and packaged honeybees.
You can notify NSW DPI:
- to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 - by using the online form at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
If anyone in NSW has found Varroa mite, they must tell NSW DPI immediately.
A new detection of varroa mite has been confirmed near Nana Glen north-west of Coffs Harbour, leading to another set of biosecurity zones.
The new detection brings the total number of infested premises to 43 since Varroa mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.
NSW DPI has established emergency zones around the infested premises and has put significant measures in place to stop the spread of the Varroa mite
NSW DPI tracing efforts discovered this infested premises near Nana Glen, where hives were moved in earlier this year, prior to our Biosecurity Emergency Order was in place. This property has links to one of our existing infested premises in the Hunter cluster.
What should I do?
All beekeepers responsible for honeybee colonies or hives within 50km biosecurity zones are either in the Notification zone, Eradication or Surveillance zones.
In those zones, beekeepers must tell NSW DPI where their honeybees and hives are. This includes queen honeybees in cages and packaged honeybees.
You can notify NSW DPI:
- to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881,
- by using the online form at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
If anyone in NSW has found Varroa mite, they must tell NSW DPI immediately.
Beekeepers in the eradication zones - update
NSW Department of Primary Industries, Local Land Services, NSW Police, NSW Rural Fire Service and the wider community are all working together to assist the apiary industry in arresting the spread and eradicating Varroa mite.
Current situation
Following the detection of varroa mite at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June 2022, eradication (red), surveillance (purple) and notification (yellow) emergency zones were established around infected premises and statewide movement controls implemented. Over the past week we have focused our efforts on surveillance around the edges of the emergency zones in order to more clearly establish the current limits of the infestation. This has resulted in a low number of new detections and there are currently 42 known infested premises.
Next steps
We will now focus our efforts within the eradication zones to recommence the euthanasia of infested hives.
Please do not work or move your hives or tamper with the hive seal after the hive has been euthanised.
Beekeepers within eradication (red) emergency zones must stay up to date with the latest changes to emergency orders and comply with any current restrictions.
How will I be contacted by DPI?
We will contact you by SMS for the scheduling of surveillance and, where required, euthanasia of hives.
What can I do to help?
We are asking all beekeepers in the eradication zone to remain vigilant and continue to report hives.
A big thank you to all beekeepers who have partnered with us very successfully on this response so far. We all have a role to play.
For further information please visit the DPI Website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa or call to make a report 1800 084 881
- A permit for registered beekeepers to transit through NSW to and from QLD has been announced. Hives must be transported in a manner that prevents escape or entry of bees out of or into those hives.
- Registered beekeepers must not transit through the Varroa mite eradication emergency (red) zone, Varroa mite surveillance emergency (purple) zone or the Varroa mite notification (yellow) emergency zone. Beekeepers must transit NSW in the shortest possible time and the hives must not remain within NSW for longer than 48 hours.
- Hives and honeybees that have been in an eradication zone (red zone) within the past 24 months or in the Narrabri emergency zone since 30 April 2022 are not permitted to be moved.
- A copy (electronic or paper) of this Group Emergency Permit should be carried by beekeepers while transporting the hives and evidence of NSW or Queensland registration.
- For more information see Biosecurity Group Emergency Permit – Movement Qld Transit
- View the story on ABC 7:30, looking into DPI's emergency response to Varroa mite - The race to save Australia's bee industry
- Infested premises count remains at 40 (as at last night), with no new detections for some days now.
Registered commercial beekeepers can submit a Hive Movement Declaration to move their honeybees and hives, provided they are located outside of the eradication, surveillance and notification zones (red, purple and yellow zones as shown on the DPI website).
The plan has been carefully developed through a risk-based approach to enable business continuity and critical pollination services for registered commercial beekeepers in certain parts of NSW.
NSW DPI has worked in consultation with the apiary and horticultural industries in NSW to develop this approach.
The Biosecurity Emergency Group Permit (PDF, 180.15 KB) makes allowance for some registered commercial beekeepers to move hives in low risk areas of NSW, while the standstill of movement of beehives remains in place as per the current Biosecurity (Varroa Mite) Emergency Order 2022.
View more on the Hive Movement Declaration page.
Applications will open tomorrow for registered commercial beekeepers to request to move hives within the low risk Emergency (blue) Zones in NSW.You can start alcohol washes now, for more information view the DPI website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa.
There have been no new infected premises for a couple of days. Number of infested premises remains at 40.Activity in eradication zonesOur effort and people are currently working on surveillance activities around the edges of red eradication zones, to help us define the outer limits of where Varroa mite is.
This information then feeds in to our response activities, where our aim remains to eradicate Varroa mite.
We'll update beekeepers and the community on our response activities ongoing.
Today's update
A new Biosecurity Order has been made available, which includes one new infested premises detected. The infested premises is located east of Singleton, within the existing Hunter area emergency zones.
Industry and DPI working togetherDPI continues to work closely with industry representatives in response the Varroa mite emergency in the Hunter area.
DPI and industry representatives want to assure both commercial and recreational beekeepers that their concerns are being heard and addressed as surveillance continues as a priority across the Hunter. DPI and NSW bee industry representatives continue to work together during this emergency response.
Preparing for commercial beehive movement:Registered commercial beekeepers will be able to apply from next week to be able to move their hives. They must be located within NSW, OUTSIDE of the eradication, surveillance or notification zones (red, purple and yellow zones).
Beekeepers can start to prepare by:
- Alcohol washing a proportion of their hives and recording the results to prove they are free from Varroa mite.
- Checking their records are up to date and that none of their hives have been in an eradication, notification or surveillance zone within the past 24 months.
For the latest information visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
A new Biosecurity Order has been made available, including one new infested premises detected. The infested premises is located east of Singleton, within the existing Hunter area emergency zones.
The order includes the following changes:
- the Varroa Mite Response map has been updated online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
- the definition of rendered wax has been updated to exclude straining. Commercially, the process may not include straining. As varroa mites will not survive in temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius and wax melts between 62.5 and 65 degrees Celsius, the rendering process kills varroa mites. Consequently, there is no biosecurity risk posed by rendered beeswax.
Industry and DPI working together
DPI continues to work closely with industry representatives in response the Varroa mite emergency in the Hunter area.
DPI and industry representatives want to assure both commercial and recreational beekeepers that their concerns are being heard and addressed as surveillance continues as a priority across the Hunter. DPI and NSW bee industry representatives continue to work together during this emergency response.
Preparing for NSW registered commercial beekeepers to move hives
As included in this newsletter yesterday, later this week registered commercial beekeepers will be able to apply to move hives enabling business continuity for the honeybee industry and support for crops that require pollination services.
The registered commercial beekeepers must be located within NSW outside of the eradication, surveillance or notification zones (red, purple and yellow zones).
Beekeepers can start to prepare by:
- Alcohol washing a proportion of their hives and recording the results to prove they are free from Varroa mite.
- Checking their records are up to date and that none of their hives have been in an eradication, notification or surveillance zone within the past 24 months.
The number of hives that need to be sampled with an alcohol wash will depend on how many hives are to be moved
- Less than 640 hives requires 64 hives to be sampled
- 640 hives or more require 10% of the hives being moving to be sampled.
More information on the permit, including answers to frequently asked questions will be provided through the week.
Preparing for NSW registered commercial beekeepers to move hives
Today the NSW Government will announce a plan to allow the movement of commercial beehives for pollination and honey production, after consultation with the apiary and horticultural industries.
Registered commercial beekeepers will be able to apply from next week to be able to move, provided they are located within NSW, outside of the eradication, surveillance or notification zones (red, purple and yellow zones).
This plan has been carefully developed through a risk-based approach so we can balance helping farmers who rely on pollination for their crops, while also reducing the chance of spreading the mites even further.
Beekeepers can start to prepare by:
- Alcohol washing a proportion of their hives and recording the results to prove they are free from Varroa mite.
- Checking their records are up to date and that none of their hives have been in an eradication, notification or surveillance zone within the past 24 months.
As part of the application process, commercial beekeepers will be required to complete a short online training course through Tocal College and will need to declare that the above steps have been completed.
The NSW honeybee industry should be applauded for their continued vigilance and support of our surveillance and tracing activities to help us build a better understanding of the Varroa mite incursion.
We need all commercial beekeepers who are wanting to be involved in hive movements to do their part for the benefit of the honeybee industry.
A second level of surveillance will be undertaken by authorised officers using miticide strips and sticky mats, when the hives have arrived at their destination.
The number of hives that need to be sampled with an alcohol wash will depend on how many hives are to be moved
- Less than 640 hives requires 64 hives to be sampled
- 640 hives or more require 10% of the hives being moving to be sampled.
The Victorian Government late today announced the requirements for the State's pollination season ahead.
For more information, view the Victorian Government media release here: agriculture.vic.gov.au/about/media-centre/media-releases/almond-pollination-season-to-proceed
UPDATE
π This new case is linked to an existing emergency zone case.
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π There has been one new detection of Varroa mite in honeybee hives at a property at Wards River, north-west of Bulahdelah.
π This brings the total number of infested premises to 39.
π Tracing is underway to confirm if this new detection is linked to a case in an existing emergency zone.
π A state-wide ban on the movement of honeybees and hives remains in place, and beekeepers within current eradication zones are not permitted to work their hives other than to conduct surveillance for Varroa mite.
π DPI are working hard in partnership with the apiary and horticulture industries to develop a permit process to manage the movement of hives outside of the current emergency zones.
π As at 6pm Tuesday 12 July, DPI has confirmed no new detections of Varroa mite as field officers continue to carry out hive inspections and surveillance with beekeepers in the affected areas.
π All current cases are linked to previously known cases.
π DPI, Local Land Services, NSW Police, NSW Rural Fire Service and the wider community are all working together to assist the apiary industry to arrest the spread of the parasite.
π Beekeepers are able to work their hives, remove frames for honey extraction, and place empty supers on full hives. These changes do not apply to beekeepers who are in the red eradication zones, and do not permit the movement of hives, brood boxes, nucleus hives, packaged bees and queen bees anywhere in NSW.
π A group permit allowing the movement of honeybees and hives to a higher location on the same premises for premises within a flood watch area, has been extended for 7 days, until midnight on Sunday 17 July.
π A reminder to all beekeepers during this difficult time that there are free and confidential support services available, and we encourage beekeepers to access small business, and mental health and wellbeing support early. You can read more in the latest assistance guide for beekeepers.
π As at 6pm Monday 11 July, DPI has confirmed no new detections of Varroa mite as field officers continue to carry out hive inspections and surveillance with beekeepers in the affected areas.
π All current cases are linked to previously known cases.
π Beekeepers are now able to work their hives, remove frames for honey extraction, and place empty supers on full hives. These changes do not apply to beekeepers who are in the red eradication zones, and do not permit the movement of hives, brood boxes, nucleus hives, packaged bees and queen bees anywhere in NSW.
π A group permit allowing the movement of honeybees and hives to a higher location on the same premises for premises within a flood watch area, has been extended for 7 days, until midnight on Sunday 17 July.
π A reminder to all beekeepers during this difficult time that there are free and confidential support services available, and we encourage beekeepers to access small business, and mental health and wellbeing support early. You can read more in the latest assistance guide for beekeepers.
πAs at 6pm Saturday 9 July, DPI has confirmed three new detections of Varroa mite as field officers continue to carry out hive inspections and surveillance with #beekeepers in the affected areas.
πAll new cases are linked to previously known cases.
πThe new confirmed cases include Jerrys Plains, Denman and Heatherbrae and brings the total number of infested premises to 38 since Varroa mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.
πThe new confirmed cases at Denman and Heatherbrae fall within previously declared emergency zones, and a new Biosecurity Emergency Order has been issued with additional emergency zones for the confirmed case at Jerrys Plains.
πA group permit allowing the movement of honeybees and hives to a higher location on the same premises for premises within a flood watch area, has been extended for 7 days, until midnight on Sunday 17 July.
πAn $18 million compensation package has been developed for registered commercial and recreational beekeepers affected by the Varroa mite outbreak.
Further details will be provided on this page when available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
π A reminder that throughout NSW no beehives or honeybees may be moved without a permit. We also remind the community to report their hives, wild hives or abandoned hives as this response continues.
π Detections at Campvale, Holmesville and Glen Oak all fall within existing emergency zones. These detections bring the total number of infested premises to 34, as at 6pm 7 July.
π NSW DPI has established emergency zones around infested premises and has put significant measures in place to eradicate Varroa mite in NSW. You can read more about the response here: https://fal.cn/3q3Oj
π A reminder to all beekeepers during this difficult time that there are free and confidential support services available, and we encourage beekeepers to access small business, and mental health and wellbeing support early. You can read more in the latest assistance guide for beekeepers: https://fal.cn/3q3Ok
Varroa mite surveillance continuesThere have been four new detections of Varroa mite within existing emergency zones. The new detections are at Berry Park, Heatherbrae, Seaham and Hinton, bringing the total number of infested premises to 28. These cases are all linked to existing cases.
We ask the community to report their hives, wild hives or abandoned hives, as this is an invaluable component of our control measures. We have contacted beekeepers in the Hunter surveillance zone, south of the Karua River, to advise that authorised officers will commence conducting hive inspections over the next week. If you are a registered beekeeper in NSW, please ensure your contact details are up to date. You can update them at any time using our online form.Not registered? You can also register online at https://fal.cn/3q02l
Infested premises update
Tracing efforts have detected five new infested premises at Anna Bay, Heatherbrae, Williamtown, Mayfield and Lambton. These new detections all fall within existing emergency zones, bringing the total number of infested premises to 24.
Report your hives
Beekeepers and property owners with hives on their land within 50km emergency zones are asked to report their hives on the Beekeeper Notification – Varroa mite online form.
Update for surveillance zone around Calga, NSW
Authorised officers will be conducting hive inspections in the Surveillance Zone (25km purple zone) from tomorrow (Wednesday 6 July) for approximately a week.
They will be looking for signs of Varroa mite, as part of our ongoing surveillance work.
These volunteers are authorised officers working in conjunction with the NSW DPI, undertaking surveillance for Varroa mite as part of the current emergency response.
Continual updates will be provided here on www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa when available.
New infested premises linked to known cases
New Varroa mite detections have been confirmed in Narrabri, Ferodale and Lambton.
These cases are epidemiologically linked to previously known cases in the Newcastle area.
This brings the number of emergency zones to a total of 19 infested premises. Close epidemiological links in all cases so far means and the Apiary industry have a good opportunity to eradicate this biosecurity threat and stop the onset of the Varroa mite.
Detail available in the latest media release, and see the online map (scroll down the page) to see the emergency zones.
Listen to Dr Chris Anderson, NSW DPI Acting Chief Plant Protection Officer talking to ABC's Country Hour today.
Click through to the segment, which starts at approximately 5 minutes in.
New infested premises
Three additional infested premises have been detected at Tanilba Bay, Salt Ash and Mayfield West. The emergency order has been updated to include the Port Stephens Peninsula within the red 10km eradication zone, where hives will be euthanised.
Acquired bees from Newcastle?
All people who have acquired honeybees (including queen bees, nucleus hives and hives with honeybees) from within the 50km emergency notification zone of the Port of Newcastle in the last 12-months are being urged to play their part by reporting them to help ensure business continuity for the bee industry.
Report these honeybees using the online form by NSW DPI.
Community reporting will hopefully help us facilitate and free up the movement of honeybees in the rest of NSW, especially around almond pollination.
New infected premises
Four additional infested premises have been detected at Somersby, Tomago and Mayfield East. All infested premises identified so far are epidemiologically linked to earlier cases, which has resulted in a slightly enlarged emergency zone.
See the emergency map on the DPI website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa to search you location.
DPI, Local Land Services, NSW Police, Rural Fire Service and the wider community are all working together to assist the apiary industry to arrest the spread of the threat.
Infected premises hive destruction
Unfortunately, it is necessary to euthanise honeybee colonies in the eradication zones and destroy internal hive equipment such as brood and honey frames.
The State Control Centre has completed a risk assessment on options to decontaminate external equipment such as hive boxes, pallets and straps as well as metal ware, so they can be retained by beekeepers.
The response plan has been updated so equipment will only be destroyed when a risk assessment deems it necessary.
Flood watch and beekeepers
As per the update sent this morning, honeybees and hives can be moved to a higher location on premises, or if that’s not possible, within the same emergency zone.
After the hives have been moved as per this Permit, they cannot be moved back to the original location. Notification of any change in location must be notified by the Beekeeper Notification – Varroa mite online form
Current flood warnings that may impact on the emergency zones can be sourced at http://www.bom.gov.au.
If you are not in a flood watch affected area you must not move honeybees or hives; significant penalties may apply under the Biosecurity Act 2015 if you do.
Flood watch and beekeepers
- As a result of the current flood warnings, a group permit has been issued allowing the movement of honeybees and hives to a higher location on the same premises but only if that premises is in a flood watch area.
- If the honeybees and hives cannot be relocated to a safe location within the same premises because the entire premises is at risk of flooding, beekeepers who are in affected areas may move their hives to a higher location but only within the emergency zone that they are currently in.
- A beekeeper in a flood watch area must not transport honeybees or hives out of or through another emergency zone at any time.
- After the hives have been moved under this Permit, they cannot be moved back to the original location.
- Notification of any change in location must be notified by the Beekeeper Notification – Varroa mite online form at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa
- Current flood warnings that may impact on the emergency zones can be sourced at http://www.bom.gov.au/
- If you are not in a flood watch affected area you must not move honeybees or hives; significant penalties may apply under the Biosecurity Act 2015 if you do.
This map highlights the flood watch catchments as at (10am 2 July 2022) overlayed by the emergency zones. This map is a point in time - use the Bureau of Meteorology website to keep up with the last flood warnings.
Progress in eradication zones
- As at 6pm Friday 1 June, bees in 728 hives have been euthanised have been or are in the process of being destroyed within red eradication zones.
Biosecurity Order remains
- Go to www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa to see the online map of emergency zones, and to read the current Biosecurity Order.
- The statewide standstill remains, which orders a halt to the movement of beehives and bees across NSW, to protect the local honey industry from varroa mite.
- This means no honey or honeycomb can be harvested anywhere in the state until that order is lifted.
- New biosecurity order
Another emergency zone has been established south of Newcastle in response to confirmed detections of Varroa mite.
Check the online map below for where the zones are in place.
See the media release announcing the changes.
- Industry briefing recording available
See the recording of the registered beekeeper briefing, hosted by NSW DPI on Wednesday 29 June 2022.
Read the transcript of the Q+A session. Names of people asking questions have been removed to protect their privacy.
New Biosecurity Order
- A new Emergency Biosecurity Order (PDF, 372.68 KB) was issued late last night, with an expanded emergency zone.
- See the online map of emergency zones, and to read the Biosecurity Order.
- The standstill remains, which orders a halt to the movement of beehives and bees across NSW, to protect the local honey industry from varroa mite.
- This means no honey or honeycomb can be harvested anywhere in the state until that order is lifted.
- The only reason people can touch their hives is to conduct surveillance for Varroa mite or if they are under instruction from an authorised biosecurity officer.
Industry meeting
- This evening, registered beekeepers within the emergency zones have been invited to a briefing session in Newcastle.
- Beekeepers will hear from NSW DPI Chief Plan Protection Officer Satendra Kumar, Local Control Centre Incident Controller Jamie Maddocks with updates on the current situation, process to date and next steps.
- The meeting will be recorded and made available online on this page.
7.30pm Wednesday 29 June 2022
NSW DPI is carrying out an emergency response to the recent detection of varroa mite from the Port of Newcastle.
An eradication plan is in place, which is supported by a number of varroa mite emergency zones covering areas within a 50 km radius of infested premises.
Targeted treatment of beehives combined with baiting programs within the eradication emergency zones will be undertaken to eradicate varroa mite. Eradication will also be undertaken for known feral colonies in the surveillance emergency zones.
NSW DPI will conduct ongoing surveillance of managed colonies within the surveillance emergency zones to ensure the spread of varroa mite is prevented.
In the initial stages of this outbreak, and until the varroa mite is contained, a total standstill of hive movement within NSW across all zones will remain in place.
Please ensure you remain updated with the latest information by checking this page.
A new emergency order has been issued (PDF, 372.68 KB) for the current response to eradicate pest parasite varroa mite.
A further emergency zone has been established a short distance from the Port of Newcastle. Location of this emergency zone can be see on the map below.
In NSW - you must not move your bees, including queen bees and packaged bees or your hives anywhere in NSW.
You also cannot tamper with your bees unless you are doing sugar shake, ethanol washes and brood uncapping to check for the presence of varroa mite. If you think you have found varroa mite, you must tell NSW DPI immediately.
10 August 2023
Total Infested Premises (IPs) are currently at 199
The most recent detections were discovered at Cooranbong, Narara and Salt Ash, all cases well within the existing Eradication Emergency Zone (EEZ). There have been no zone changes as a result of these recent IP’s.
As per usual practice, tracing of all hive, queen bees and equipment movements on or off infested premises and review of all previous hive movements in and out of the new red or purple zones assist in understanding how the mite is moving and identify possible new sites for surveillance.
Second round surveillance is underway in the Surveillance Emergency Zone (SEZ) to delimit the spread of Varroa.
The Wild European Honey Bee Management Program (WEHBMP) continues with actions being undertaken in Nana Glen, Wherrol Flat, Krambach, Newcastle, Central Coast, with highly targeted activities in Gumble due to commence in the coming weeks.
Updated - 6pm 17 August 2023:
Since distributing the weekly update, the response has confirmed two additional Infested Premises (IPs) in the Kempsey region, taking the total number of IPs to 204.
These two new IPs will extend the Eradication Emergency (Red) zone to the East and West, with a corresponding extension to the Surveillance Emergency (Purple) zone. NSW DPI has so far surveilled over 200 hives, and is prioritising further surveillance in relation to the IPs.
We have an evolving situation in Kempsey, and we don’t believe we have yet discovered the index, or main case, but our extensive surveillance means it won’t be long before we do.
Not sure which zone you’re in? Check your address using the interactive zone below.
Response update – 17 August 2023
Total Infested Premises (IPs) are currently at 202
Latest detections include a blue zone detection near Kempsey, discovered through a beekeeper self-reporting alcohol wash results. Additional surveillance has been prioritised surrounding the infested premises to delimit the spread.
It is very important that all beekeepers who have hives in the Kempsey area, or who have moved hives through the Kempsey area since January 2023:
- Do not move those hives from their current location
- Report the current locations of those hives using this form
Two additional detections within the Cooranbong Eradication Emergency Zone (EEZ) have resulted in a slight extension of the EEZ west of Cooranbong.
As per usual practice, tracing of all hive, queen bees and equipment movements on or off infested premises and review of all previous hive movements in and out of the new red or purple zones assist in understanding how the mite is moving and identify possible new sites for surveillance.
The Wild European Honey Bee Management Program (WEHBMP) continues with actions being undertaken in Nana Glen, Wherrol Flat, Krambach, Newcastle, Central Coast, Gumble, Glenorie, Maroota and Bandon Grove.
NSW DPI has published a new Emergency Order following the discovery of further Infested Premises (IPs) in the Kempsey region.
The two new cases at Dondingalong and Aldavilla expand the red and purple zones to the North of Kempsey and were discovered through NSW DPI surveillance.
Further information is being sent to impacted beekeepers, and a community briefing will be held in the district next week.
Monday 21 August
Four new cases of Varroa mite have been identified in the Kempsey region.
Together the new cases slightly extend the existing Kempsey Eradication Emergency Zone (EEZ).
The cases in Kempsey, South Kempsey, Aldavilla and Dondingalong were discovered through testing and NSW DPI surveillance.
Total infested premises (IPs) are currently at 210.
A further two detections have been uncovered in the Kempsey region, bringing the total infested premises (IPs) to 212.
Of these,a detection at Crescent Head extends the Eradication (red) and Surveillance (purple) zones over to the coast. The other detection, at Euroka has no impact on the zones.
Further information is being sent to impacted beekeepers and a community briefing in the Kempsey area is being held this evening.
A new Emergency Order has been published today.
Current situation update - 23 August 2023
Total infested premises (IPs) are at 213 following an additional detection at Kundabung, in the Kempsey region. This detection was confirmed following a self-reported alcohol wash by a beekeeper.
This new detection extends the EEZ (red) and SEZ (purple) to the south of Kempsey.
A new Emergency Order has been published today.
New Varroa mite detection's have been confirmed at two new locations, following movement tracing from the Kempsey cluster.
Hives at Euroley in the Riverina, and Euston in the Sunraysia region, which were transported from and near Kempsey prior to discovery of that infestation, have both today (Thursday 24) tested positive for Varroa mites.
New Emergency Eradication Zones (red) and Emergency Surveillance Zones (purple) will immediately be implemented in these regions, centered on these infestations.
Total infested premises (IP's) are at 215.
The positive detections were uncovered through swift tracing by the national Varroa response program from an infested site at Kempsey and review of hive movement declarations from the area.
Individual biosecurity directions will be implemented on any other hives traced from Kempsey, which will immediately stop those hives from being moved until the response has surveilled them to prove Varroa mite freedom
Current situation update - 25 August 2023
NSW DPI has confirmed a new detection of Varroa mite in bee hives at Nericon in the Riverina of NSW.
The positive detection was uncovered through swift tracing by the national Varroa response program from an infested site at Kempsey.
The Nericon detection was made possible through the movement declaration process, reiterating the importance of compliance in the movement of hives.
NSW DPI has immediately established Emergency Eradication and Emergency Surveillance zones around the site, under a new Biosecurity Emergency Orderβ―published today.
An additional 5 detections in the Kempsey area have resulted in some extensions to emergency zones in the Kempsey area. This brings the total detections for the Kempsey area to 17, as the situation continues to evolve.
Total infested premises (IPs) are 221.
Anyone with hives currently located within this area are strongly encouraged to ensure they are registered and notify DPI where their hives are on 1800 084 881.
A new detection of Varroa mite has been confirmed in beehives moved from Kempsey to Balranald, in the Riverina Region of NSW, bringing the total number of infested premises to 222.
Surveillance on all hives recently moved from the Kempsey region continues to be a priority for the response, and this new detection at Balranald, along with the detections in recent days at Euroley, Euston and Nericon, were discovered during urgent surveillance activities.
The detection is a testament to the speed in which NSW DPI ground crews are working to understand the potential spread of the mite, as well as to the majority of bee keepers submitting hive movement declarations.
NSW DPI is working hard to delimit any further spread, and the immediate ban on hive movements within a 25 kilometre perimeter continues, with extensive surveillance of any nearby hives continuing.
NSW DPI is working with bee keepers and agents associated with the infested hives in almond sites to manage risks associated with declining floral resources, including hive robbing and swarming.
The situation in Kempsey is rapidly evolving which means additional detections linked to the Kempsey infestation are not unexpected.
