A couple of amateur beekeepers in Orange have launched a support group called the Varroa Warriors to discuss organic ways of treating their hives.Federal and state authorities are working together with the expectation varroa mite will continue to spread across the country.The pair are amateur beekeepers who met several years ago through their local bee club in Orange, in central west New South Wales.
"The approval process for non-synthetic treatment could be simplified with products available overseas that don't taint or leave residue on the hives." The group has begun working with academics and citizen scientists to find answers to their questions. "Because of the different methods we're using, there's been a gap in the support offered," Ms Hutabarat said.
"We hold education workshops and speak at local beekeepers' groups as we want to make everyone feel included."