WA’s unique bees celebrated at Murray Street Mall for World Bee Day

Perth’s Murray Street Mall will be abuzz next Tuesday as the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and local beekeepers celebrate World Bee Day with a unique information display.

Visitors to the dedicated display on 20 May can take a sneak peek at an active bee colony in an observation case, gain insights into beekeeping, tips for creating a bee friendly garden, honey styles produced exclusively in WA and connect with local beekeepers.

DPIRD principal agribusiness development consultant Gerard Leddin said the department was partnering with the Bee Industry Council of WA (BICWA) and the Agricultural Produce Commission’s beekeepers committee to showcase WA’s diverse bee sector.

There are more than 4,500 registered hobbyist and commercial beekeepers in WA, who own more than 51,800 hives.

“Thanks to WA’s unique jarrah forests, our beekeepers and their hard-working bees produce the distinct jarrah honey,” Mr Leddin said.

“This premium honey is exclusive to our State, with its flavour profile gaining recognition in global markets.

“Visitors to the information display will have the opportunity to taste a range of WA’s special honeys such as jarrah, karri and marri.”

BICWA vice chair Mikey Cernotta said World Bee Day highlights the important role bees play in food production and in the broader ecosystem.

“If people cannot join us at the Murray Street Mall display, there are other ways to celebrate this big day,” Mr Cernotta said.

“Purchase some local honey from your local beekeeper, plant bee friendly plants in your garden, try a recipe using premium WA honey or host a morning tea showcasing food made with local honey.”

The display will also feature critical biosecurity information to help prevent the introduction or spread of exotic and damaging bee pests and diseases, with WA remaining one of the few places in the world still free of the destructive bee pest, varroa mite.

A DPIRD officer who specialises in helping beekeepers detect and manage varroa mite will be available throughout the day to share practical advice and resources on protecting and maintaining healthy beehives.

Early reporting of pests or diseases is vital, with the display containing information on reporting requirements for suspect declared bee pests, including through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

The World Bee Day display will feature at the Murray Street Mall on Tuesday, 20 May from 8am.

For more information on World Bee Day, go to worldbeeday.org.au