7th May 2026 - WYNnovation Business Expo
What a great opportunity to find out about local businesses and to expand the Be Like Bees horizon.
Had a little chat with MC and guest speaker Osher Günsberg.
Connected with a range of people, with a shout out to:
- - Jayne Ramlakan from ActionCOACH Australia for connecting me with Wyndham Biznet.
- - Juvi Singh from Global insurance Solutions who has set us up as a home business.
19th April 2026 - Mossfiel Community Garden
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10th April 2026 - Varroa Management
Manage varroa mite levels using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach.
As the Werribeeks Bee Club Varroa Specialist, I maintain my knowledge of varroa management through attending specific training and ongoing professional development provided by the Victorian Apiarists Association (VAA), Agriculture Victoria (AgVic) and through the National Varroa Mite Management Program (NVMMP).
An initial outbreak of varroa will see us fighting mite bombs. These high mite loads occur as unmanaged hives collapse due to varroa, spreading infestation. An unmanaged hive might be one that is feral or one that is owned by a person who does not manage the health of colonies. Unfortunately there will be some managed hives that collapse, particularly those that are weak.
By having an IMP in place, beekeepers will be able to monitor loads and act promptly.
As the Werribeeks Bee Club Varroa Specialist, I maintain my knowledge of varroa management through attending specific training and ongoing professional development provided by the Victorian Apiarists Association (VAA), Agriculture Victoria (AgVic) and through the National Varroa Mite Management Program (NVMMP).
An initial outbreak of varroa will see us fighting mite bombs. These high mite loads occur as unmanaged hives collapse due to varroa, spreading infestation. An unmanaged hive might be one that is feral or one that is owned by a person who does not manage the health of colonies. Unfortunately there will be some managed hives that collapse, particularly those that are weak.
By having an IMP in place, beekeepers will be able to monitor loads and act promptly.
The number one priority is attempting to keep mite loads low by putting in place as many cultural and mechanical actions as possible. These include sterilising equipment, creating brood breaks, having screened bottom boards, removing drones and using bee gyms.
Once mite levels exceed the treatment threshold, my preferred treatment method is Varroa Controller (heat treatment).
There is evidence that varroa is becoming resistant to chemicals, so these should be used with caution.
You can find out more about varroa on my links page.
Once mite levels exceed the treatment threshold, my preferred treatment method is Varroa Controller (heat treatment).
There is evidence that varroa is becoming resistant to chemicals, so these should be used with caution.
You can find out more about varroa on my links page.
