3 March, 2025

Dear Beekeeping Community of Victoria,

As we face the recent news of Varroa Mite being discovered in two locations in the northwest of the state, and the unfortunate spreading of this invasive pest through legal movements of hives, we want to express our solidarity and unwavering support for each one of you. 

We understand that this news has caused concern, fear, and frustration. The presence of Varroa Mite in Victoria is a critical moment for all of us, but we must remember that this situation is a matter of time, not a matter of blame. These pests are an inevitability that has affected beekeepers across New South Wales, and they are now a challenge that we must face together. The nature of beekeeping means that pests like Varroa Mite can spread quickly, and despite our best efforts, they will inevitably reach areas previously unaffected. 

While the spread of Varroa Mite is concerning, it is important to know that there are strategies in place to manage this situation. The Transition to Management (T2M) plan, which has been rolled out in response to the incursion in New South Wales, now extends to Victoria. The T2M plan recognises that eradication is no longer feasible and focuses on practical, collaborative measures to help beekeepers manage the pest and ensure the long-term health of our industry. The key components of this plan include ongoing support, education, and surveillance, all designed to equip us with the tools and knowledge needed to protect our hives. 

The beekeeping community has always shown remarkable resilience and unity in the face of challenges. There are resources available to guide you through monitoring and management practices, and new opportunities for collaboration with experts and fellow beekeepers. The plan also emphasises the importance of surveillance and reporting, ensuring we all play a crucial role in tracking the pest’s spread and implementing effective management strategies. 

As always, it is vital that we approach this situation with a spirit of compassion, understanding, and unity. The beekeeping community is a tight-knit, passionate group that has always looked out for one another. News travels fast, and while fear and frustration may be natural reactions, it is vital that we support each other through this challenging time. No one is at fault for the spread of this pest. It is a situation that, unfortunately, we all knew might come eventually, and now it is upon us. 

In times like these, we must remember our shared purpose — to protect our bees and the critical role they play in pollination and the health of our environment. Together, with the support of the T2M plan, we can take the necessary steps to manage the situation, support one another, and continue to advocate for the well-being of our hives, our honey, and our shared future.  We encourage you to follow biosecurity measures, and share knowledge with your fellow beekeepers.

Sincerely, 

The VAA Board