Almost all sectors of Australian agriculture benefit from pollination by honeybees, and on the whole these pollination services are free and often taken for granted. Both feral bees and commercially-kept bees play a role in pollinating crops and pastures, but these services face serious threats.

This week a workshop called by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) brought together representatives from the honeybee industry with industries that depend on honeybee pollination to plan a national approach to threats to the industry, like the exotic varroa mite.

“Recognising the seriousness of these threats, RIRDC has called together experts in apiculture and honeybee pest and disease management, along with representatives from all the industries affected, for a first-ever national Honeybee Industry Linkages Workshop,” said Margie Thomson, RIRDC General Manager Research.

“A key outcome of this workshop has been a commitment to forming a strong alliance between all industries that have a stake in pollination, to strategically address the serious issues facing the honeybee industry and the industries that rely on pollination,” she said.

“An independent report from the Centre for International Economics in 2005 identified two main threats - an incursion of the exotic varroa mite, and a reduction in the amount of native flora available to help maintain a diverse source of pollen and nectar for hive health,” Ms Thomson said.

The varroa mite is a honeybee parasite that, untreated, can result in the destruction of entire bee populations.

“At the moment this pest has spread to nearly every country in the word, including New Zealand, with Australia being virtually the only exception,” Ms Thomson said.

Worldwide the spread of the mite has had a serious impact on honey production and pollination. In New Zealand the varroa mite destroyed feral honeybee populations, and raised the costs and management burden of commercial beekeeping.

 “RIRDC has a strong track record in managing the research investments for the honeybee industry; and we will continue play a leading role in forming an alliance of stakeholders to ensure that the industry has the best possible protection against and preparation for any threat,” she said.

Opening the workshop, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Sussan Ley, said that honeybee pollination is worth over $1.7 billion to Australian agriculture.

“The honeybee industry is one where people work together to solve problems,” Ms Ley said, “This workshop brings in a broader forum of stakeholders.”
“It is vital for the future competitiveness and sustainability of the honeybee industry, and the industries that rely on pollination, to work in partnership across the supply chain,” she said.

Following on from the workshop, RIRDC will coordinate an alliance between the honeybee industries and the horticulture, grains and pasture sectors, with a strategic plan addressing the varroa threat, pollination issues and the necessary research and training for those involved.

ends

Media enquiries:
Martin Field – RIRDC Public Affairs Manager – tel - 02 6272 4735 / 0418 430 760, email - martin.field@rirdc.gov.au