Overview

• PIRSA found the mite in a managed hive near Pooginook during routine surveillance, with the hive traced to a Queensland consignment that met import rules.
• The state is taking a management approach rather than eradication, with infected hives being treated and closely monitored.
• Biosecurity notices cover a 25 km radius around Pooginook, operators must present hives for inspection, and beekeepers are urged to use alcohol wash, sugar shake or sticky mats and report any suspect signs.
• Officials and industry groups warn feral honey bee populations could crash, threatening pollination for both commercial crops and native plants.
• The almond industry cites production at risk without interstate pollination this season, while beekeepers expect new treatment costs of about AU$60–70 per hive annually.