June 2025

Adapting to change: Finding stability after Varroa, floods or drought.

Have a cuppa: Find your network 

The introduction and detection of Varroa destructor in June 2022 forever changed beekeeping in Australia. 

For many beekeepers, the past three years have been filled with uncertainty, frustration, grief, and a deep sense of loss - not just for the bees, but for a way of life. 

The response efforts, movement restrictions, hive losses, and shift to management have been felt by individuals, businesses and the broader industry. 

Many beekeepers continue to take stock and ask: What comes next? 

This isn’t just business – it's personal! 

Beekeeping involves many factors.  It’s early mornings, heavy lifting, strategic planning and quiet moments by the hive.  

So, when regulations change, or biosecurity directions disrupt your plans, it’s natural to feel angry, lost, or unsure. 

You’re not alone. A lot of beekeepers are upset that the changes to beekeeping have disrupted their plans or a version of the future they were building.  

Talking about it with peers, friends, or professionals can help make space for those feelings without letting them take over. 

Adaption doesn’t mean giving up 

Just because the way you approach beekeeping is shifting doesn’t mean your role in it has to end.  

Change is inevitable and the introduction of Varroa means you’ll have to approach some things differently. This may include: 
 

• New learning: Understanding Integrated Pest Management (IPM), testing and treatment strategies and what Varroa management looks like in practice. 

• New markets: Pivoting to local pollination services, niche honey products or education. 

• New goals: Rethinking what gives you enjoyment or what success looks like. This may mean fewer but more manageable hives. 

Remember that adapting is a skill, not a setback. You’ve possibly already weathered droughts, fires and floods. With the right support you can adjust to this change in beekeeping too. 

Lean on your network 

Now more than ever, connections matters.  

Whether you’re staying in the industry, scaling back or considering your next steps, think about: 
 

• Reaching out to local beekeeping groups or associations, 

• Attending industry webinars, forums or field days, 

• Find your ‘go-to’ people - those who’ll give you straight answers and ongoing support. 

You don’t need to do this alone. Sharing stories, concerns, or even a cuppa can remind you that you aren’t the only one facing this, and everyone is finding their new normal. 

Varroa may have changed the industry, but it needn’t take away your passion for beekeeping. 

Resilience support is available 

If the events of the recent heavy rains or drought conditions have compounded impacts on your mental or physical health on top of trying to manage Varroa mite, or perhaps you have financial concerns, reach out to our dedicated Resilience Officer.    

The National Varroa Mite Management Program’s Resilience Officer, Jamie Perry-Meijer, has extensive experience in helping people and communities impacted by Varroa mite. He also has invaluable connections to wellbeing and support service providers.    

To arrange a confidential chat with Jamie, visit varroa.org.au/resilience, phone 0477 544 379 or email jamie.perry-meijer@dpi.nsw.gov.au.    

Do you know of a fellow beekeeper who may be doing it tough but isn’t on our email listing? Encourage them to sign up at National Varroa Mite Management Program e-news or phone the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881 to receive the latest in Varroa Resilience developments. 

For more information from the National Varroa Mite Management Program visit varroa.org.au.   

Is there a conversation you've been putting off? While time can change a lot, sometimes just a few minutes of honest talk can make a huge difference.

Let's have that conversation. 

Visit www.varroa.org.au/resilience