Media release – Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania, 22 April 2024
Tasmania’s small hive beetle response a success
Effective from 22 April 2024, Tasmania’s small hive beetle response activities have ceased. The previously declared General Biosecurity Direction (small hive beetle) and the Bee Movement Restriction Area have now been revoked. Following the detection of small hive beetle in the East Devonport area in March 2023, Tasmania’s Chief Plant Protection Officer declared a General Biosecurity Direction (small hive beetle) which established a Bee Movement Restriction Area around the detection site.
Effective from 22 April 2024, Biosecurity Tasmania responded quickly following the detection, working alongside beekeepers, industry, and the community to protect the health of Tasmania’s bee population, as well as our honey and pollination sectors. Since the initial detection, extensive surveillance activities, including thousands of beehive and trap inspections, have been ongoing within the Bee Movement Restriction Area. Biosecurity Tasmania concluded the final round of inspections in March 2024.
Small hive beetle is a European honeybee pest that is present in all Australian states and territories except the Northern Territory and Tasmania.
Tasmanian beekeepers are asked to remain vigilant for any signs of pests or disease, and report anything unusual to Biosecurity Tasmania on (03) 6165 3777. For more information visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/SHB
