Varroa Response Update

3 New Detections

There have been 3 new infected premises confirmed from NSW DPI Surveillance through laboratory diagnostics and these bring the total infested premises to 140. The locations of these are Clarence Town, Seaham and Pokolbin. Of the new IP’s only the Pokolbin detection will result in an extension to the RED zone west of the Hunter. The Clarence Town and Seaham IP’s result in no change to the Varroa mite emergency zone map.

Changes to the Emergency Order

 Alcohol Washing

Beekeepers will be relieved to know that the new Emergency Order includes welcomed changes to the number of hives they must alcohol wash. That requirement has been reduced and depends on the number of hives at each apiary site:

• Less than 26 hives at a site – alcohol wash all hives at that site.
• More than 26 hives at a site – alcohol wash 26 of your hives at each site.

Beekeepers are still required to report their 16 week alcohol washes to the DPI through the website. This agreed change will still provide confidence in BLUE zone freedom from Varroa.

 Compliance Strengthened

There is no longer a 72 hour window for the submission of a hive declaration in the BLUE zone. Beekeepers in NSW must complete paperwork PRIOR to movements and carry a copy of their declaration or approved permit during the move. As movements of hives pose a risk to the success of eradication, declarations and permits allow for critical traceability. NSW DPI have engaged the help of NSW Police to assist with any non-compliant activities, this includes on the spot fines of up to $2,000 for those transporting bees without appropriate documentation on their person.