BEEINFORMED

Did you know the beekeepers involved in the WA Better Bees Program on Rottnest Island play an important part in protecting Western Australia from exotic bee pests?

Words James Sheehan, Project Officer, DPIRD

TOP: Kev, Ron and Nick, Rotto Better Bee Program 2025, Rottnest Island. ABOVE: Better Bees bee keepers.

THE program has provided ongoing support to the WA’s biosecurity efforts by supplying quality queens to many of our Sentinel Hives, positioned at key entry points and high-risk biosecurity pathways in WA. These hives form an essential part of our early warning system, helping to detect pests and diseases before they can spread, and safeguarding the health of our local bee populations.

In addition to supporting biosecurity, the program focuses on breeding queens with excellent temperament and behavioural traits.

With many of our hives located in urban areas and or near busy worksites, having calm, well-behaved bees is vital for neighbourhood safety and underpins the value of the program.

We extend our thanks to all the breeders and participants of the Better Bees Program for their support and commitment. Their work not only strengthens our local industry but also helps ensure the long-term resilience and sustainability of beekeeping across Western Australia.