News

New bee mite management role

By Contributed

Jun 17, 2026

James Rowe has been appointed by Agriculture Victoria as a new horticulture sector officer, helping in the fight against Varroa mites. Photo by Contributed

Agriculture Victoria has appointed a dedicated officer to help horticulture and pollination-dependent businesses adapt to the ongoing challenges posed by varroa mite.

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James Rowe joins as horticulture sector officer, bringing experience across the apiary, broad-acre and horticulture sectors.

He previously supported beekeepers through the transition to varroa mite management and has a background in pasture management and pollination-reliant industries.

In the role, funded through the Victorian Varroa Transition Program, Mr Rowe will provide information, guidance and resources to businesses in horticulture, cropping and pasture as pollination services increasingly depend on managed commercial honeybee hives.

Agriculture Victoria Horticulture Services program manager Aimee McCutcheon said the appointment would help industries navigate long-term changes to pollination services.

"Varroa brings ongoing challenges for growers and beekeepers. This new role will support them to navigate challenges by developing and delivering practical information, resources and advice," Ms McCutcheon said.

Mr Rowe will also support businesses through the Farm Business Resilience Program, which assists commercial beekeepers and pollination-dependent operations.

Growers and beekeepers are encouraged to report suspected varroa mite to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.