Beekeepers supported after severe weather

  • Beekeepers supported after severe weather image

Recent severe weather events in South-East Queensland and New South Wales have significantly impacted many beekeepers.

Commercial and hobby beekeepers alike found themselves dealing with flood affected hives or had lost hives completely and needed to dispose of hive boxes and equipment in an appropriate manner.

To address the need for assistance, an online information session was hosted by Biosecurity Queensland on Tuesday, 5 April 2022 as part of the Bee Biosecurity Webinar series.

Queensland Bee Biosecurity Officer (QBBO) Dr Dave Schlipalius, in collaboration with Jo Martin, State Secretary of the Queensland Beekeepers Association (QBA), provided timely guidance to beekeepers on how to deal with flood affected hives while minimising biosecurity risks. Sheree Finney, Manager of Natural Disasters and Drought for the Queensland Rural Industries Development Authority (QRIDA) also provided information on flood recovery support options available to Queensland’s commercial beekeepers.

Attendees also participated in a live question and answer session on the night giving them direct access to the expert advice important to them.

View a recording of the webinar

A factsheet is also available that outlines the key management options for flood affected hives and how to properly dispose of damaged boxes, equipment, and spoiled product.

For more information about the QBA and how they can assist beekeepers: www.members.qbabees.org.au

For more information on Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements visit: https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au