The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) will host a community information session to share the latest information on varroa mite detections and management.

It will be held at the Victor Harbor Civic Centre on Wednesday 25 February from 6.30pm to 8pm.

Varroa mite is a parasite that attacks European honeybees and is considered one of the greatest threats to Australia’s honey bee population and plant industries that rely on bee pollination, according to the federal government.

It was detected on the east coast of Australia in June 2022 and efforts to first eradicate the threat, and then contain the spread have been unsuccessful.

At the information session PIRSA will cover the latest information on varroa mite detections and management, local impacts, and what it means for backyard and commercial beekeepers, growers and the broader community.

This event is designed specifically for the Fleurieu Peninsula region and will include practical steps for monitoring and management and where to access support and resources.

There will be a live presentation and an interactive Q&A session. It is free to attend but registration is essential via Eventbrite.

For more information on varroa mite management visit the federal government website.