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Varroa update: new Biosecurity Order and updated map

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The ABA continues to work directly with the NSW DPI and AHBIC to answer members’ queries and concerns during the widening Varroa biosecurity emergency. Our Industry Liaison Officer (for recreational beekeepers) is based full-time in the Local Control Centre at Maitland.

Current Situation

An updated Biosecurity Order came into effect at 6.15 pm on 28 June 2022. This clarifies definitions and extended areas in eradication, surveillance and notification zones.

Can beekeepers feed their bees?

Not in NSW. The only permitted hive activity is surveillance work for varroa mites. This means beekeepers must not top up, change or otherwise handle feeders, until further notice. There are no exceptions for front feeders or for top feeders already in place. As frustrating as this may be for many beekeepers, you must wait. The restrictions are in place to give authorities the best opportunity to isolate and act on problem areas. 

Any change to the rules will be advised via a new Biosecurity Order. 

Can I send AFB slides for diagnosis or get boxes irradiated?

We were asked this question by one member who has recently needed to destroy AFB infected colonies and had taken smear samples from other hives just before the statewide lockdown.

The answer: they can and must send their samples to the state veterinary lab straightway. The current varroa situation does not override their biosecurity obligations to report AFB. You cannot, however, open hives to check for AFB or perform any health checks other than testing for varroa mites.

We advise all NSW members to hold off on sending contaminated boxes for irradiation. Boxes can be securely wrapped (bee proofed) and stored. In red and purple zones no apiary equipment can be moved from premises.

I’d like to check my bees for mites. Any tips?

We continue to hear from members who are confused about what to do. Performing mite checks is allowed and encouraged, but not mandated. You’ll be contacted by the DPI anytime you are specifically required to check, and given instructions.

  • Be conscious of biosecurity: if you are within 25km of an infected premises (red or purple zone) wear a disposable coverall over your bee-suit, and disposable boot covers. Remove outer clothing, bag and freeze for 24 hours after use. (You could consider doing this even if you are outside the 25km zone.)

  • Take ziplock bags to contain any suspect material, and white paper or a bucket of water ready to examine your icing sugar mix.

  • To minimise the colony’s exposure to cold temperatures, pick the warmest part of the day and get prepared before you break open any boxes to pull out frames.

  • Act calmly but decisively.

  • Remember to clean your equipment after use.

Any suspicious results must be reported immediately by:

For the latest on the emergency: dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa

Tip: to zoom in on the map, use the + and - buttons on the left-hand side rather than using a touch screen zoom. Click on the button below these +/- buttons to select the map view (image, streets, typographic etc)

Have a specific query? Contact us on beehelp@beekeepers.asn.au