12 August, 2021
Australia has been declared officially free from the bee parasite, Varroa jacobsoni, following its successful eradication from Townsville, Queensland. Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud thanked Queensland for leading the national response.
“Varroa jacobsoni was detected in recently arrived feral Asian honey bee nests at the Port of Townsville in May 2019 and April 2020,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Varroa jacobsoni is related to Varroa destructor which is responsible for a collapse in European honey bee colonies around the world."
Read more about Varroa jacobsonii
If you suspect exotic bees or bee swarm, or see any unusual pest, you can report them to the national Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Any unusual plant pest, disease or weed should be reported.
Reporting hotlines operate in both Australia and New Zealand (numbers shown below).
Australian Exotic Plant Pest Hotline
New Zealand Pest and Disease Hotline
Pests can also be reported using apps, such as MyPestGuide® for Australia, that allow you to submit a photo of the pest or symptoms.
Every report is taken seriously and handled confidentially. Management of calls varies in different areas, but to the same end.
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