Mary Banfield

Journalist

The only area in Australia that has a large and growing population of Asian bees is the Douglas Shire and Greater Cairns region and this bee species is considered a biosecurity threat.

Asian bees, scientifically known as 'Apis cerana’ were first detected in Cairns in 2007 and since have been listed by the State Government as a biosecurity hazard in Far North Queensland.

“Apis cerana has the potential of hosting parasites such as the Varroa mite that can be deadly to European honeybees,” Cairns and District Beekeepers Association president Julia Toft said.

On her land in Julatten, she cares for and nourishes 30 beehives that produce honey to be sold at the Mossman Markets and has become a local expert providing advice to other enthusiasts.

Bees face multiple dangers

Toft is concerned that a similar scenario could emerge to what happened in NSW in July 2022 when the Varroa mite was detected at the Port of Newcastle.

15 million European honeybees have been euthanized to halt the spread of the mite and the work continues.

Our Native and European honeybee species face many dangers.

“Both are susceptible to deforestation, chemical use, and warming temperatures, but the European honeybee is also at risk from pests such as small hive beetle and the Varroa mite which can also carry viruses," Ms Toft said.

“Our European honeybees are what we rely on for the production of honey and the pollination of our local fruit and vegetables."

The Queensland Government continues to work to contain the population of Apis cerana and is supported by the community’s work.

“Our bee club has recognised the enormity of the job of the State Government," she said.

"We'll be there educating the public on the difference between Apis cerana and the European honeybees."