Bee Serious

24/04/2026

Lest we forget

30/03/2026

It’s so important that we protect our national and state borders from declared pests such as varroa
There is no quick fix
Knowledge is power
What don’t we know?!!!!

The Bee Industry Council of Western Australia has expressed disappointment following the release of the federal government’s final report into how Varroa mite entered Australia.

After almost four years of investigation under Operation Decker, the report does not identify how or when the mite entered the country.

This leaves a critical gap.

For Western Australia — still free from Varroa — understanding how this pest entered Australia is essential to keeping it out.

As BICWA Chair Kate Byrne explains:
“Industry did not ask specifically for a prosecution… they asked for the gate that was open to be found and closed.”

-Varroa destructor remains one of the most damaging pests to honeybees globally.
-It was first detected in New South Wales in June 2022.
-Eradication efforts ceased in 2023, shifting to long-term management.

For WA, prevention is everything.

The absence of answers raises broader concerns about Australia’s biosecurity preparedness — not just for beekeepers, but for all agricultural industries.

BICWA continues to advocate for:
✔ Continued investigation into the Varroa incursion
✔ Stronger national biosecurity systems
✔ Support for WA to maintain its Varroa-free status

📄 Read the full report via the Australian Government website
🔗 Link in bio

BICWA’s focus is on protecting Western Australia’s Varroa-free status and supporting beekeepers through strong, evidence-based biosecurity.

We welcome respectful, constructive discussion.

Repetitive or non-constructive comments may be moderated.

12/11/2025

Get involved in Biosecurity Blitz 2025!

Whether you're a gardener, farmer, student, or curious kid, your observations matter both in WA and Australia at large.
Learn about biosecurity, protect your local environment, and join a community of pest reporters and surveillance champions.

Download the MyPestGuide Reporter app to report your findings.
This app proves to be very simple and the team behind the scene use the information we share to evaluate and monitor our biosecurity

Give it a go

What is that pest?

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17jSNdFNdW/?mibextid=wwXIfr

19/10/2025

Another reasons bees 🐝 we love keeping bees
Research suggests people are discovering that caring for bees is a powerful way to nurture their inner calm.

The benefits of keeping bees go beyond honey. As more people are discovering, these super pollinators are the perfect antidote to a busy world.

11/10/2025

All swarms and feral hives in this story have been relocated to more suitable homes 😉.
Please contact a responsible beekeeper for professional swarm removal services. For Western Australia 🇦🇺 visit https://waas.org.au/swarms/ to find the right person for your area.
Similar services are available in other states.
As bees play a vital role in our agriculture industry, correct management is necessary to protect our biodiversity.
Sean Walsh Bee Serious

07/10/2025

On a serious note, responsible beekeepers will ensure they inspect the health of a swarm or feral hive at the time of any removal and monitor it; unfortunately, there are many pests and diseases that can destroy both the hive and risk our biosecurity.

Surveillance, monitoring, and prompt reporting are key to protecting your hives and nearby colonies. Early detection gives the best chance to control pests and diseases, safeguarding Western Australia’s healthy bee populations. By following best practices and staying vigilant, you help stop the sp...

06/10/2025

Don’t let a swarm take up residence in or around your home, reach out to a responsible beekeeper to rehome the bees before their good work becomes an intrusion.
Sean, Bee Serious

https://waas.org.au/swarms/

05/10/2025

A hive found their way into a ceiling cavity in the Vines. After a little persuasion they are now comfortable in their new accommodation.
Reach out to Bee Serious, if you find a wayward swarm or an univited established bee hive you need collected.

04/10/2025

🐝🌼 Honey Gold Rush here in WA

Rottnest Island off Western Australia is home to the world’s longest continuous Queen bee breeding program. The Queens are renowned for their calm temperamen...

04/10/2025

https://youtu.be/dGYolAUtd2c?si=FdqtWqe6r1DA8EJy

WA Honey, at its finest

Rottnest Island off Western Australia is home to the world’s longest continuous Queen bee breeding program. The Queens are renowned for their calm temperamen...