We can help youThe Victorian Apiarists' Association can help all beekeepers regardless of how many bee hives they own.Whether you are a hobbyist beekeeper with one hive in the backyard, a semi-commercial beekeeper wishing to take the next step towards becoming fully financially dependent on beekeeping, or a full time commercial beekeeper - we can help you. |
Vale Bob McDonald OAM and VAA Life MemberI regret to inform you that Bob McDonald OAM and Life member of the VAA passed away on Sunday 27th December 2020. The following notice has been provided by the McDonald family. “We would like to take the time to thank all of you personally as well as your organisations. Bob was a member/associate/friend of all your groups and derived immense satisfaction throughout his life from being a part of each and every one. Dad may not have said it personally and as straight forward as that, but you could definitely know this from his participation and enjoyment at all the events throughout the years. He loved being part of the beekeeping family. So, we would like to say it openly for him, thank you all very much." Click here to view a Tribute to Bob from Peter McDonald Service to celebrate Bob’s life: Monday 4 January at 2pm at the Community Centre, 45 Elizabeth St, Campbells Creek. Followed by afternoon tea. All welcome. Video recording of service: view online from noon Wednesday, 6 January: thompsonsfunerals.com.au/live-stream Yours Sincerely, Phil McPherson, President VAA Inc Click on VAA Shop for details
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and until further notice the Australian Bee Journal will not be posted in a printed format. Instead it will be delivered on-line via a link from an email sent to each member from the VAA Secretary. The email for the June 2020 journal was sent on 24th June.
If you are a VAA member, have checked the above three issues and are still not receiving the email with the journal attached, please notify the VAA Secretary (contact details shown below). Along with many past editions, the latest journal can also be accessed from the Members menu tab. Here is the front cover of the March | CVAA Annual Picnic Day: Sunday 18th April Click here for further details. Beekeeping during the COVID-19 PandemicThe VAA has been working with Governments during the current COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that our interests are considered as part of any movement restrictions and exemptions that apply to individuals and businesses.
I have been able to gain some clarity around beekeepers being able to attend their hives for husbandry purposes in areas subject to stage 3 and 4 movement restrictions. The link below takes you directly to the relevant web page which has a number of frequently asked questions (FAQ’s).
Where the FAQ indicates that you need to provide evidence about your animals/insects, I suggest that you carry a copy (both hard copy and electronic) of your beekeeper registration with you in the event of you being spot checked by authorities.
For current information please check the relevant Victorian and the AHBIC websites as they hold considerable amounts of relevant information for you and your business.
As the COVID-19 response continues, I will continue to represent the VAA and our interests at the relevant industry forums being hosted by Agriculture Victoria.
Kind regards, Phil McPherson, President VAA Inc Government COVID-19 ResourcesThe following government resources are being updated regularly and we recommend you check them for the latest public information. Thanks to the University of Melbourne for providing much of this list.
COVID-19 hotlines also offer 24/7 support:
VAA Melbourne Section Face-to-face Monthly Meetings have ResumedThe Melbourne Section has recommenced Face-to-Face meetings in 2021. We have a NEW VENUE at The Avenue Church of Christ, Surrey Hills. You can find out where to go by checking the Events page in the Melbourne Section menu tab. Come along and meet up with beekeepers from all flights of life! |