Chair Report March 2025 

The AHBIC team recently met in Canberra for two days of workshops and meetings, unfortunately two of our executives were hunkered down due to Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred but attended virtually.  We had a very informative workshop on Tropilaelaps mites to deeper understand the pest and the threat but also to review our industry Contingency Plan and preparedness. The existing Tropi contingency plan was last reviewed way back in 2012.  We debriefed on the Varroa incursion and will include the learnings into a new draft Tropilaelaps Contingency Plan that will be circulated for consultation when completed.  There are still some knowledge gaps that need to be investigated before the draft Tropilaelaps plan can be completed. Disturbingly we learnt that Tropi mites can be more devastating than Varroa mites as they reproduce much quicker and are harder to control. 

As a result of feedback from the 2024 AGM and future resource planning, we also held a workshop on AHBIC communications.  We looked at what works well, what needs improving and what are some new opportunities to connect with beekeepers. An action from the workshop is for AHBIC to develop a communications plan-on-a-page which we will share when completed. 

Varroa is now in Queensland with multiple detections near the Lockyer Valley. This is sad though unfortunately inevitable, as it spreads across the country over time.  As Queensland comes to terms with the new detections, we constantly remind the Queensland government of AHBIC’s clear views on border restrictions.  We have strong agreement across our member bodies and board that we advocate for regulated movements.  This is to slow the spread but won’t prevent the spread.  Movements allowed by risk mitigated regulation that finds the balance between business continuity and slowing the spread is imperative.  

It disappoints me when I see comments on social media that AHBIC does nothing for the beekeeper.  The AHBIC team work very hard to ensure government of all levels is aware of the importance of our amazing industry. We are working on having a level playing field with imported honey as well as input to potential new export markets for Australian honey.  Working with Government departments is a slow process where change takes time to be implemented. 

Some of the recent big ‘wins’ have included working with our plant industry colleagues to have the Federal Government Biosecurity Levy scrapped.  Directly saving beekeepers a 10% increase in levies that gave no promise of additional industry benefit. AHBIC recently lobbied the government successfully to secure a grant to ensure the continuation of the National Bee Biosecurity Surveillance and Bee Biosecurity Programs. We have imported honey firmly in the sight of government with activities underway to level the playing field. We have had numerous ‘wins’ across the varroa response including ensuring the tangible outcomes are as beneficial as possible for industry. This includes practical extension and education workshops across all states and territories to ensure as many beekeepers as possible can access resources and develop skills for their future.  

We are fast approaching the AGM and Conference period for our member bodies.  AHBIC is aware that a lot of beekeepers are doing it tough, however supporting your state association is important to ensure the future of our fabulous industry. 

Stephen Targett

Chair