Varroa mite detected in Far North Queensland, marking northernmost incursion in Australia

Biosecurity Queensland confirmed two detections at El Arish and Cardwell, about 120 kilometres south of Cairns, on September 7, with a third suspected detection near Innisfail. The new detections are roughly 1,000 kilometres north of the previous northernmost incursion, a jump that Biosecurity Queensland’s varroa mite innovation and resilience initiative manager, Rob Stephens, said was likely the result of human-assisted movement of hives from south-east Queensland.

“The identified hives have been successfully destroyed at the discretion of the beekeeper,” Mr Stephens said. “The threat is still there that there could have been further spread.” He added that subsequent surveillance had also confirmed a third suspect detection in Innisfail, which is not thought to be linked to the first two.

Varroa mite was first detected in Queensland in March 2025 and has since spread across 26 local government areas. “We had our first detection in Gladstone in central Queensland in August, and just yesterday we confirmed a detection in Blackwater in the Central Highlands region,” Mr Stephens said.

He noted that natural spread would likely move the mite only about 10 kilometres a year, but human-assisted spread — particularly through migratory beekeeping operations that move hives for pollination — could carry the pest much further. “Unfortunately, it is a matter of time before we expect to see varroa mite endemic all throughout Queensland,” he said.

Beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and test their hives monthly to detect infestations early. The Department of Primary Industries has published a varroa mite surveillance map online showing where the pest has been detected within the state.

Why This Matters

Varroa destructor is a major threat to honey bee colonies, which are essential for pollinating many crops. The spread of the mite into Far North Queensland could have serious consequences for agriculture and the beekeeping industry.
The jump of 1,000 kilometres northward demonstrates how quickly the pest can travel with human assistance, raising the risk of it becoming established across the entire state.
Early detection and destruction of infected hives are critical, but the expectation of endemic spread means long-term management strategies will be needed.

Background

Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite that feeds on honey bees, weakening colonies and spreading viruses. It is considered one of the most destructive pests to bee populations worldwide. In Australia, varroa mite was first detected in Queensland in March 2025 and has since been found across 26 local government areas, including recent detections in Gladstone and Blackwater. Natural spread is slow — about 10 kilometres a year — but human movement of hives for pollination has accelerated its dispersal.

Key Perspectives

Biosecurity Queensland: Officials are urging beekeepers to test monthly and remain vigilant. Rob Stephens has emphasised that the mite is expected to become endemic throughout Queensland, and that human-assisted spread is the primary vector.
Beekeepers: Those with infected hives have had them destroyed. Migratory beekeepers face particular risk, as moving hives can inadvertently spread the pest. Biosecurity measures are becoming more critical.
Pollination-reliant industries: Farmers of crops such as almonds, berries and apples depend on healthy bee populations. The spread of varroa mite could increase costs and reduce pollination reliability.

What to Watch

Confirmation of the suspected detection in Innisfail and further surveillance results in Far North Queensland.
New detections in central Queensland and potential spread along the coast.
Any restrictions or changes to hive movement regulations imposed by Queensland authorities.
The effectiveness of monthly testing and willingness of beekeepers to comply.

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